The Changing of Appalachia: The People, the Workforce, and the Economy

Development District Association of Appalachia
Annual Conference

February 24-26, 2008
Arlington, Virginia

Change is the only constant in life, as the saying goes, and that has never been more apparent than it is today. But learning to respond to change effectively can be a challenge. The 2008 Development District Association of Appalachia (DDAA) conference—The Changing of Appalachia: The People, the Workforce, and the Economy—focuses on large-scale economic and demographic changes taking place in Appalachia and how local development districts (LDDs) can manage these changes to create a more positive future for their communities.

Conference sessions will address some of the key "change agents" affecting the Appalachian Region today and offer ideas on how districts can respond proactively. Topics will include Appalachia's demographic forecast and its implications for the Region's economy, focusing on factors including population aging, youth outmigration, and immigration; the growth of Appalachia's auto industry; the increasing importance of entrepreneurship to job growth in the Region; and the impact asset-based development can have on Appalachia's economy.

This year's conference offers a mix of new and traditional events, beginning Sunday, February 24, with plenary training sessions, followed by a welcome reception. Monday's events start with a "topical" breakfast highlighting ideas and best practices in energy development, asset-based development, entrepreneurial development, and health care. It will be followed by morning and afternoon training sessions and the annual conference awards luncheon, which this year will include the presentation of the first DDAA Humanitarian Award. This award recognizes individuals in the Region for outstanding achievements in helping others overcome obstacles to lead better, more productive lives.

Monday evening will offer a joint reception with the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), followed by the annual banquet featuring an address by Appalachian Regional Commission Federal Co-Chair Anne B. Pope. The conference concludes Tuesday morning with joint DDAA/NADO presentations on the 2008 elections and the potential impact this election cycle will have on federal infrastructure and economic development programs essential for continued growth and development in Appalachia.

Please join us for this informative event!

Conference agenda
General information
Conference brochure (PDF: 260 KB)