NADO CLG Capstone 2024
The opioid crisis has created serious challenges across rural America, and the New River Valley (NRV) is taking a proactive approach with the NRV Recovery Ecosystem. What makes this initiative stand out is its coordinated focus on prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction, all working together to drive meaningful, long-term changes in addressing addiction and improving wellness throughout the region.
Led by the NRV Regional Commission, with Montgomery County as the fiscal agent, the program is a collaborative effort involving Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, and Pulaski counties, as well as the City of Radford. The work is carried out by a diverse network of organizations and individuals, all committed to tackling the root causes of addiction and strengthening the overall well-being of the New River Valley.
Origins and Background
The opioid epidemic has disproportionately affected manual laborers in the NRV, including coal miners and farmworkers, who were aggressively targeted by pharmaceutical companies promoting opioids as pain relief. As of 2022, Virginia experienced 2,490 overdose deaths, approximately 79% involving fentanyl​. The opioid-related death rate in Virginia stood at 24.5 per 100,000 residents, a significant rise over the past decade​.
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Top 3 methods of unnatural death in Virginia (Photo: VDH)
In the NRV, the death rate from opioids was more than double the state average. In 2023, local leaders launched the NRV Recovery Ecosystem with $6 million in funding to tackle every aspect of substance use disorder, including prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and long-term recovery.
According to Kevin Byrd, Executive Director of the New River Valley Regional Commission, “This crisis isn’t something any one locality or organization can tackle alone. The strength of the NRV Recovery Ecosystem is our regional collaboration, where every partner brings something vital to the table.”
Key Programs and Initiatives
The NRV Recovery Ecosystem’s holistic approach includes programs in four core areas:
As of September 16, 2024, key achievements include providing over 1,285 on-demand rides for recovery services, training more than 183 individuals in mental health and trauma care, and distributing over 602 naloxone kits.
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New River Valley Regional Commission. “Recovery Ecosystem Digest: September.” NRVRC OAA Monthly Updates, September 16, 2024.
These numbers continue to grow due to the phenomenal work taking place in the region, with partners consistently expanding outreach efforts, enhancing service delivery, and building greater community engagement. The momentum behind these initiatives is driving a sustained impact, so that our community receives the support and care it needs as the ecosystem evolves.
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NRVRC Community Health Team supporting the NRV Recovery Ecosystem
The NRVRC supports the administrative, evaluation and reporting elements of the program along with training, education, communication and outreach strategies and performance measures. Technical teams and oversight are supported by a committed core team in collaboration with our service and governmental partners. Their collaboration strengthens every facet of prevention, recovery, and harm reduction in the NRV woven together to support a true ecosystem of recovery.
Economic Impacts and Workforce Rehabilitation
The opioid crisis is both a public health emergency and a critical economic issue for the NRV. Substance use disorders reduce workforce participation and productivity while increasing healthcare costs. The NRV Recovery Ecosystem seeks to rehabilitate the workforce by helping individuals overcome addiction and re-enter the labor market, which is critical for the region’s economic stability.
“Addiction doesn’t just impact individuals. It affects our entire region’s ability to grow and thrive economically,” explains Byrd. “By tackling this issue, we’re not only helping people recover but also making sure our region has a strong, healthy workforce.”
Relevance to the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)
The NRV Recovery Ecosystem aligns closely with the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) by addressing critical issues that directly affect the region’s workforce, public health, and overall economic vitality. Substance use disorders, particularly the opioid crisis, have drastically reduced workforce participation and productivity, as noted in the CEDS goals of improving workforce development and supporting economic resilience.
The Recovery Ecosystem not only offers essential health interventions but also contributes to workforce rehabilitation, a key element in the NRV’s broader economic development plans. As highlighted in the CEDS, building a resilient workforce is vital for sustaining long-term economic growth. Specifically:
This initiative further supports CEDS priorities, such as fostering partnerships across sectors. As the NRV continues to develop a healthy, well-trained workforce, the Recovery Ecosystem’s contribution to both the social and economic fabric of the region is invaluable. It underscores the importance of regional collaboration in overcoming the challenges of the opioid crisis while fostering long-term economic stability.
Reflections on Progress: Achievements and Insights
Holly Lesko, Director of Community Health for the New River Valley Regional Commission, reflects on progress made throughout the year, sharing highlights and lessons learned from ongoing efforts to build the NRV Recovery Ecosystem.
Regional Collaboration and Funding
The NRV Recovery Ecosystem thrives on collaboration, involving five local governments and eleven regional agencies. The project has received $4.4 million from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority and over $1.5 million from local jurisdictions. This collaborative funding supports prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and stigma-reduction efforts across the region (Roanoke Times). Montgomery County acts as the fiscal agent, ensuring funds are distributed effectively.
To fund stigma reduction and all other facets of the initiative, the project has been allocated almost $6 million within the first two years of the regional project, which began in 2023. The Recovery Ecosystem has received approximately $4.4 million of this from the Opioid Abatement Authority. The local governments receive direct allocations from both the OAA and direct settlements. Between the five jurisdictions, they received over $3 million to spend on opioid abatement activities and committed almost $1.5 million to the regional project.
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Future Goals and Vision
The NRV Recovery Ecosystem has set several long-term goals, including:
Conclusion
As Holly Lesko emphasizes, “The work we are doing now is laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient NRV in the years to come.” By linking services and guiding investment among governmental and agency partners, Lesko notes, “The NRV Recovery Ecosystem is built upon shared commitment and investment in the overall success of the work.”
However, sustainability remains a key challenge. Lesko highlights that “Sustainability is a double-edged sword for this innovative funding effort. It’s critical that work continues beyond OAA funding availability.” She stresses the importance of using current resources wisely: “It is also imperative that service agencies and governmental partners utilize these resources to try new and innovative approaches to address this insidious disease in individuals and communities.”
Lesko also emphasizes the power of bold action and collaboration: “This shared commitment to think and act boldly can build on economies of scale and programming where appropriate. It also builds impetus for shared investment in the long-term success and obligation to the needs of the communities served. We are in this together.”
In conclusion, the New River Valley Recovery Ecosystem is a testament to how regional collaboration can address complex public health crises like the opioid epidemic. Through its integrated approach to prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery, the initiative is making significant strides in saving lives and revitalizing the local economy. As other regions consider adopting similar models, the NRV Recovery Ecosystem stands as a powerful example of partnership, innovation, and resilience.
Ethan Simon began as a Research Fellow at NADO in January 2025 after earning his bachelor’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Maryland, College Park, with minors in Law and Society and Geographic Information Science. During and after his undergraduate studies, Ethan built experience across state government, transportation advocacy, and nonprofit policy work, including positions with the Maryland General Assembly, the Government Affairs Department of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), and as a Government Relations and Advocacy Intern for the National Council of Jewish Women. Ethan currently serves as Chair of Government Affairs for the SEPTA Youth Advisory Council, where he leads advocacy efforts to expand public transportation funding and strengthen transit planning throughout the Philadelphia region.
At NADO, he supports rural energy planning initiatives by contributing research to the Rural Energy Academy and assisting with broader programs focused on rural energy development and policy impacts on rural communities.
Now residing in Washington, D.C., Ethan enjoys playing basketball and football in his free time, as well as traveling. He is interested in U.S. history, sports, and geography, is a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan, and hopes to one day compete on Jeopardy.
Juliette Wilder is the Manager of Government Relations for the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), where she supports congressional and executive branch outreach, coalition building, and advocacy efforts on behalf of more than 500 regional development organizations (RDOs) nationwide.
Prior to joining NADO, she was a Senior Policy Associate at Boundary Stone Partners, where she specialized in clean energy policy analysis, federal funding navigation, and legislative advocacy. In this role, Juliette coordinated with the Department of Energy on multi-million-dollar clean energy projects, spearheaded congressional and executive branch initiatives, and built partnerships to advance innovation in the energy transition.
She holds a Master’s degree in Global Environmental Policy from American University and a Bachelor’s in International Studies. Her academic research focused on energy equity and the Justice40 Initiative.
When not working, Juliette can be found community gardening, bouldering, or hiking.
Michael Matthews is the Director of Government Relations for the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), where he leads congressional and executive branch outreach, coalition building, and advocacy efforts on behalf of more than 500 regional development organizations (RDOs) nationwide.
With over a decade of experience, Michael combines policy expertise with political acumen to advance federal policies that promote equitable community development, economic competitiveness, rural growth, economic mobility, and quality of place. Before joining NADO, he served as the Legislative Director for Community, Economic & Workforce Development at the National Association of Counties (NACo), collaborating with county officials to shape policies affecting local governments in areas such as housing, community and economic development, public works, and workforce initiatives.
Earlier in his career, Michael held various policy positions at the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), Office of Congressman Anthony G. Brown (D-Md.), and contributed to several political campaigns across the Washington, D.C. metro area.
Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Salisbury University and a master’s degree in public administration from Wilmington University. A native of Delaware, he now resides in Lake Ridge, Virginia, with his wife and daughter.
Andrew Coker joined the NADO team in March of 2023 as a Regional Development Researcher after spending two and a half years as the Regional Economic Resiliency Coordinator at NADO-member organization West Central Arkansas Planning and Development District.
Now serving at NADO as a Program Manager, Andrew conducts research on the newest economic and community development best practices from Economic Development Districts across the country. He helps produce easily digestible information on complex regional issues through case studies, tip sheets, and research reports. Andrew also hosts training and professional development opportunities including conference sessions and virtual webinars for member regional development organizations.
Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service. He is one of NADO’s three Missouri-based team members and enjoys reading and training for his next triathlon.
As Director of Programs, Jack Morgan manages the portfolio of NADO’s training, research, capacity-building, and other grant-funded programs and activities of the NADO Research Foundation. Jack previously served as a NADO Senior Program Manager and Associate Director, leading work supporting energy communities and the training programs for Emerging Leaders.Â
Jack joined the NADO team in 2022 after seven years with the National Association of Counties (NACo) as a Program and Senior Program Manager. Prior to NACo, Jack was a Policy Analyst for Friends of Southwest Virginia and interned for Mount Rogers Planning District Commission (VA). Jack holds a bachelor’s in geography from Emory & Henry College and a master’s in geography from Appalachian State University.
Jack is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and is a member of the American Planning Association (APA) Regional & Intergovernmental Planning Division. He also serves on the Emory & Henry College Alumni Board.
Taking road trips, reading non-fiction, and indulging in top-notch barbecue and coffee round out Jack’s days. He loves maps, mountains, and of course, all things sports.
Kar’ron Grant joined the NADO team in 2023 as Administrative Specialist and is the first face (or voice) you’ll see or hear when reaching out to NADO. As Administrative Specialist, Kar’ron manages our database and coordinates NADO event operations. He ensures members’ needs are met, contact information stays current, and NADO’s office is running efficiently.
Kar’ron came to NADO after four years in the classroom teaching at The New Century School and Old Mill Middle North where he received the Patriot of the Year award. He attended Towson University and the University of Maryland Global Campus and holds a bachelor’s in international studies and humanities.
Visiting art galleries and museums, playing basketball and bowling, and taking in movies and music are some of Kar’ron’s interests and hobbies.
Deputy Executive Director Laurie Thompson has been with NADO for 25 years. Laurie helps keep the NADO and NADO Research Foundation wheels turning through management of the daily operations of the Research Foundation, securing financial resources and overseeing grants management, and helping execute NADO’s Annual Training Conference each year.
Laurie holds a bachelor’s in public affairs and government from Mount Vernon College and a master’s in health services administration from The George Washington University. Prior to NADO, Laurie spent time as a Field Specialist and an Eagle Staff Fund Director at First Nations Development Institute.
When she’s taking a rare reprieve from her NADO work, Laurie enjoys traveling domestically and internationally to visit friends and family.
Jamie McCormick joined the NADO team as a Policy Fellow in 2019 and now serves as a Senior Manager of Member Services. In this role, she supports NADO’s engagement with its membership, helping ensure members stay connected, informed, and supported. She assists with programs, communications, and events that strengthen relationships across the organization’s network.
Brett Schwartz began at NADO in 2012 as a Research Fellow after earning his J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law. The following year, he was promoted to Program Manager and has now been leading as an Associate Director since 2018. Brett is responsible for managing NADO’s Economic Development District Community of Practice (EDD CoP), as well as researching and monitoring the latest trends in regional economic development and resilience, including best practices for the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). With more than a decade of experience on the NADO team, Brett is a dynamic relationship builder helping connect and build capacity among the national network of regional development organizations.
Brett also holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a master’s from Trinity College Dublin, as well as a certificate in mediation training. He’s a member of Catalyst Grantmakers of San Diego and Imperial Counties and was a participant in the 2021-22 Field Trips to the Future Cohort.
Brett is one of NADO’s West Coast team members residing in San Diego, CA where he enjoys spending time outdoors, attending concerts and festivals, and soaking up life as a parent of two young children. Â
Katie Allison joined the team in 2023 to lead the strategic communication efforts of NADO. Katie creates and develops print and online materials, communicates NADO’s updates to members via weekly emails, and maintains content for nado.org and NADO’s social media channels. She also works with different departments to generate new ideas and strategies to effectively describe and promote the important work NADO is doing for EDDs and RDOs across the country.
An experienced nonprofit communications professional, Katie worked for organizations in western North Carolina for nearly a decade. She holds a bachelor’s in communications from Wingate University where she was a four-year student athlete.Â
Senior Program Manager Ciara Ristig has been a member of the NADO team since 2021, and helps with NADO’s EDD Community of Practice, EDD staff capacity building and other grants on a range of subjects, including equity and solar energy. Before NADO, Ciara worked as a Planner for the County of Santa Barbara and an Assistant Project Manager for REM Consult. Ciara holds a bachelor’s in urban studies and French from Bryn Mawr and a master’s in urban studies from Ecole d’Urbanisme de Paris.
When she’s not traveling, you can find her outrigger paddling and serving on the board of the Blue Sky Center in New Cuyama, CA, near her home base of Santa Barbara.
Carrie Kissel has been a member of the NADO team since 2005 and currently serves as Associate Director, Transportation. Carrie holds a bachelor’s in anthropology from Ball State University and a master’s in public anthropology from American University. In her role at NADO, Carrie provides technical assistance and support to rural regions on transportation and economic development issues. She also develops training and peer exchange events on transportation issues and rural wealth creation as an economic development strategy.
Carrie is a member of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) and serves as chair of the TRB Standing Committee on Transportation in Rural Areas.
Reading, gardening, hiking, and kayaking are a few of Carrie’s hobbies.
Melissa Levy has worked at NADO as a Wealth Creation Specialist since February 2023 and is the Principal Consultant at her own firm specializing in wealth-based economic development consulting. With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Melissa brings a breadth of knowledge to her role providing in-depth research, coaching, and training on regional economic resilience, rural wealth creation strategies, and economic development.
Melissa is a North American Food Systems Network trained AgriCluster Resilience and Expansion (ACRE) facilitator and a WealthWorks coach, facilitator, and trainer.
In addition to her professional work, Melissa serves on the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Council, on the board of the Hinesburg Community Resource Center, and on the Hinesburg Economic Development Committee.
A true outdoorswoman, Melissa enjoys cross country and downhill skiing, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as yoga, and teaching Tai Chi.
Senior Program Manager Krishna Kunapareddy began her role with NADO in February of 2023 after 14 years of service at Boonslick Regional Planning Commission in Missouri. Krishna manages NADO Research Foundation’s Planning and Environmental Linkages and Center for Environmental Excellence projects. In addition to researching and writing, Krishna also conducts virtual workshops on innovative tools and techniques related to transportation planning.
She holds an undergraduate degree from Andhra University and a master’s from JNT University in India, as well as a master’s in city and regional planning from the University of Texas at Arlington. Krishna is also a certified Smart Cities Academy Practitioner and holds the Location Advantage certificate from geographic information system software company ESRI.
In her spare time, Krishna volunteers with Mentors4College helping high schoolers better plan for their post-high school paths.
Bret Allphin joined NADO in April of 2022 bringing with him a wealth of knowledge after a 20-year career with Buckeye Hills Regional Council in Marietta, Ohio. In addition to his bachelor’s in political science and master’s in public affairs, Bret is a licensed Geographical Information Systems Professional (GISP). He is NADO’s go-to team member for all things mapping while also supporting members with transportation and economic development technical assistance services.
An avid sports aficionado and former collegiate athlete, Bret enjoys cheering on his Cincinnati Reds, hitting the trails on his mountain bike, and improving his golf game whenever possible. Bret is an involved community member in Marietta dedicating much of his spare time to serving on local nonprofit boards.
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Joe McKinney serves as Executive Director of the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO). Headquartered in Washington DC, NADO provides advocacy, education, research, and training for the nation’s 500+ regional planning and development organizations.
Joe has more than 30 years of experience having served in city, county, regional, national association, and government management since 1991. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy Analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a candidate for a master’s degree in Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill.
McKinney has provided congressional testimony on numerous occasions regarding the importance of regional development organizations in helping shape the nation’s economic growth. He is nationally recognized for promoting innovative solutions in areas such as planning and economic development, workforce development, transportation and transit, and aging services.