Welcome to West Virginia!
Another state crossed off the list, and this one felt nostalgic.
This week took me to Summers County and Kanawha County two places that I had previously visited when I was a volunteer with ASP. Even though I had been to both counties before, this trip gave me an entirely different perspective. We worked out of different centers than I had during my volunteer experience, and it was interesting to see these communities through new eyes.
One of the most memorable moments happened in Summers County. I had the chance to talk with a homeowner whose house had been worked on about seven years ago, the last time ASP had a center there. She told me that volunteers had repaired part of her roof back then, and that over the years she had continued to hope ASP would one day return to help with the remaining repairs her home needed. What stayed with me was the faith she had held onto all those years. She said she believed that one day ASP would come back to the county and work on her home once again.
Listening to her talk about the home that she and her husband built from the ground up was incredibly moving. She spoke with so much pride and hope, especially when she shared that she wants to pass the house down to one of her children someday. It reminded me that the work ASP does is not just about construction—it is about helping families preserve the places where their memories and futures live.
In Kanawha County, we had the opportunity to visit the West Virginia’s Capitol. Seeing the capitol building from the highway was such a nostalgic experience, and it was nice to spend time in a county that felt different from other surrounding places.
Another highlight of the week was getting to spend time with some of the West Virginia staff. They are truly amazing people who pour so much of themselves into serving others. I love watching them work within different communities and seeing how brightly they shine while doing it.
One interaction from Summers County is something I know I will not forget. During lunch, a man approached Rachel and me and asked if we were with Appalachia Service Project. He explained that someone down the street had a hole in her roof and wondered if there might be additional people available to help with the construction. He owned a small construction company and was busy with other projects, but he was still reaching out on behalf of someone who’s in need. It was a brief conversation, but it felt like a glimpse into what community connections can look like. People looking out for their neighbors, asking for help when they see a need, and trusting that someone might be willing to step in. Moments like that remind me why this work is important.
West Virginia may have only been one of my many stops on this summer’s journey, but it left me with stories, conversations, and reminders that I will carry with me as the week comes to an end.
Goodbye for now,
Cassidy Smith
Story Gathering Intern
