As Ohio County approaches the one-year anniversary of the floods that killed nine people and destroyed homes throughout the county, several local organizations have joined together to celebrate those who have survived and overcome the damage to rebuild even stronger.

A partnership between ADW Catalyst Strategies, Ohio County Family Resource Network and NAMI West Virginia will host Stronger Together: Community Gathering on Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Valley Grove Volunteer Fire Department, located at 355 Firehouse Lane in Valley Grove.

The event is open to residents, first responders, and community members impacted by the June 2025 flooding in Valley Grove, Triadelphia and surrounding areas.

Over the past year, communities across the region have demonstrated resilience, compassion, and the power of neighbors helping neighbors, organizers said. This gathering is designed to continue building on those strengths by helping community members gain practical tools for supporting themselves, their children, their families, and one another during stressful times, including severe weather events and other community challenges.

“In West Virginia, we look out for each other,” said Claudia Raymer McKay, Executive Director of the Ohio County Family Resource Network. “This evening is about sharing practical strategies that can help people support their children, check in on neighbors, and strengthen the connections that help communities recover and move forward together.”

The evening will include:

· A free community dinner served from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

· A community-focused adult session facilitated by NAMI West Virginia and ADW Catalyst Strategies

· A children’s group led by Youth Services System and the Child Care Resource Center

· Practical take-home tools and strategies families can use during stressful situations

· Opportunities to connect with neighbors and community partners

Organizers emphasize that the event is intended to be welcoming, informal, and centered on community connection and shared support. Materials for this event was made possible through a donation from ALG Vacations.

RSVPs are appreciated but not required.

For additional information or to RSVP, contact the Ohio County Family Resource Network at 304-232-5600 or claudia@ocfrn.com.