Voinovich Spearheads Cooperative Effort to Help Ohio Appalachia
Ohio Appalachian Improvement Initiative Receives $75,000 in Federal Funds

Following is a news release prepared by Senator Voinovich's office to announce a grant awarded to the George V. Voinovich Center for Leadership and Public Affairs. The Voinovich Center was established as part of Ohio University's efforts to promote leadership training, public policy research and outreach programs.

Contact: Scott Milburn or Kelly Fitzhugh at (202) 224-7784

ATHENS, Ohio (April 17, 2001) -- U.S. Senator George V. Voinovich (R-OH) today announced $75,000 in federal funds to help southern Ohio communities foster and maintain small businesses to resuscitate the unstable Appalachian economy. Voinovich made the announcement at Ohio University in Athens. The funds will be released from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for the Southern Ohio Technical Assistance (SOTA) Initiative administered by the Ohio University Voinovich Center.

"Small business development is a critical component of any economy, and by improving training and resources in Appalachia Ohio we can help strengthen these areas," Voinovich said. "I am proud of the work my alma mater, Ohio University, is doing to help Appalachia and I am pleased to have played a role in securing funding for this important initiative."

Through collaboration with local chambers of commerce and economic development districts, SOTA will develop marketing plans to increase tourism and attract small businesses.

"There are many communities in distressed counties in southern Ohio that have a critical need for economic development assistance. Now, as a result of the sponsorship of Senator Voinovich, we have obtained funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission, which will help provide assistance to Appalachian communities that need it most," said Hugh Sherman, Assistant Director of the Voinovich Center.