Another exciting step in Clearfork Community Institute's journey towards renovation was taken this week as it received a donation of five Dell laptops from the Berea College Entrepreneurship for the Public Good (EPG) and the Information Systems and Support (IS&S) programs. The computers will be used in the Cyber Caf/, a learning and social center for community residents, for research and education. Marie Cirillo, whose community involvement has been instrumental in the Institute's renovation, said, "These computers provide real momentum toward making the Cyber Caf/ a reality."

An ongoing partnership between EPG and the Clearfork Valley community has resulted in two student-led service learning projects that have directly benefited the Clearfork Community Institute. In the summer of 2004, a student team developed a strategic plan for the center, which included plans to establish the Cyber Caf/. This past summer's EPG team collaborated with local high school students in fundraising efforts for the completion of a geothermal heating and cooling system for the Institute. Additionally, a brochure describing geothermal and the Clearfork community's mission and renovation project was produced to aid in soliciting contributions. The projects were also beneficial for the students who applied leadership and team work skills to community development work, carrying Berea College's message of "labor, learning, and service" into Appalachia.

Carolyn McQueen , class of '06, had this to say about her participation in the 2004 project:

"The invaluable work being accomplished and dedication to the surrounding community by Marie Cirillo, Brenda Partin and other key workers in the Clearfork Valley Community is beyond compare! Having worked closely with these passionate and remarkably energized women as an EPG Fellow participating on the Reach for the Stars community partner team, I can attest to these special qualities as well as to the importance of the ongoing project to renovate the old Blue Diamond Coal Camp schoolhouse and to establish the Clearfork Valley Community Living-Learning Institute for young and old alike in this pristine Appalachian Mountain community. The five laptop computers being delivered to the Institute are an important part of the ongoing support and cooperative sharing effort between the Clearfork Community and the Berea College EPG Program and will be a valuable addition to plans for the Cyber Caf/ in the Institute."

The Clearfork Community Institute is headquartered in the former Eagan Coal Camp School (1952-1956) that was donated to the community in 1997 by the J.M. Huber Corporation. The Institute's mission is to establish and exercise community involvement that defines rural Appalachia's sustainability and emphasizes the importance of a place-based community.

Berea College's EPG program is a two-summer program where students learn about entrepreneurship, leadership and community development in the context of Appalachian communities. Through the program, students learn how small businesses and nonprofit ventures employ socially and environmentally responsible practices to provide jobs and build healthy communities.

If you would like to contribute to the Clearfork Community Institute or learn more about the Cyber Caf/, contact Brenda Partin at (423) 784-0095.