Six decades of building hope, transforming lives, and sharing Christ’s love through service in Appalachia
Appalachia (August 21, 2024) – Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) is proud to announce the celebration of its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of dedicated service to the people of Appalachia. Since its founding in 1964, CAP has been a beacon of hope and support, empowering individuals and families in some of the most underserved regions of the United States.
Over the past 60 years, CAP has grown from a small initiative to a comprehensive organization addressing critical needs such as poverty, hunger, education, and home repair. With programs that reach across 13 states in the Appalachian region, CAP has impacted the lives of over 1.5 million people (directly and indirectly), providing essential services and fostering self-sufficiency.
“We are humbled and honored to have served Appalachia for 60 years,” said Guy Adams, President and CEO of Christian Appalachian Project. “This milestone is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Appalachian people and the unwavering support of our volunteers, donors, and partners who share our mission.”
CAP was founded by Rev. Ralph W. Beiting, a Catholic priest, in response to the deep poverty he witnessed in Appalachia. Initially starting with small outreach efforts in Eastern Kentucky, CAP quickly expanded to address the diverse needs of the region. The organization focused on providing food, clothing, education, housing, and spiritual support to struggling families. Over the decades, CAP grew into one of Appalachia’s largest human services organizations, serving thousands annually through various programs. CAP’s mission remains rooted in empowering individuals and communities while fostering faith and hope throughout the Appalachian region.
To commemorate this milestone, CAP will host a series of events to highlight the stories of those who have been positively impacted by CAP’s programs and honor those who have made this work possible.
CAP’s anniversary also marks a time of reflection and renewal as the organization looks to the future. “While we celebrate our past, we are also focused on the future,” added Adams. “We remain committed to adapting and expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of Appalachian communities, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.”
Upcoming 60th Anniversary Special Events Include:
- August 27 (7 – 9pm): “Called to the Mountains” Short Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion on the History of CAP and the Appalachian Region, Lexington Public Library Central Library Farish Theater, Lexington, KY
- September 2 – 27 (9:30am – 6pm): We Are CAP Exhibit, Lexington Public Library Central Library, Lexington, KY
- October 1 -31 (8am – 5pm): We Are CAP Exhibit, University of Kentucky William T. Young Library, Lexington KY
- October 6 – 12 (8am – 5pm): We Are CAP Exhibit, Madison County Library, Berea, KY
- November 19 (7 – 9pm): Fighting Hunger, Feeding Hope Short Documentary Screening and Panel Discussions on Food Insecurity with Food Justice Advocates, Lexington Public Library, Central Library, Farish Theater, Lexington KY
- March 3 – April 30 (10am – 6pm): We Are CAP Exhibit, Mountain Arts Center, Prestonsburg, KY
- March 4 (10am – 1pm): We Are CAP Exhibit, Kentucky State Capitol, Capitol Rotunda, Frankfort, KY
- March 14 (7 – 9pm): “Hearts of Hope” Full Documentary Screening, The Historic SIPP Theatre, Paintsville KY
- March 25 (7 – 9pm): “CAP Will Be There Short” Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion on The Impact of Substandard Housing and the Lack of Quality Affordable Housing, Lexington Public Library Central Library Farish Theater, Lexington KY
- April 4 (6 – 7:15pm): “Hearts of Hope” Full Documentary Screening, Kentucky Theatre, Lexington KY
- April 26 (4pm): We Are Cap Exhibit and Concert, Viva Voices, Cold Spring, KY
To learn more about Christian Appalachian Project and their 60th Anniversary Celebration, please visit wearecap.org.