Bringing together organizers already doing the work of defending democracy and empowering the people in West Virginia and the region — to share what we're learning, connect our efforts, and prepare together for what comes next.
Two days after Constitution Day (September 17th). At a moment when democracy is under real strain and grassroots organizing is more critical than ever.
The work is already happening. Across West Virginia and neighboring states, people are organizing — Indivisible chapters, No Kings rally organizers, mutual aid networks, faith communities, and unaffiliated neighbors who simply decided to show up. This gathering brings those organizers into one room to share what's working, what isn't, and what comes next.
Preparedness is a form of protection. A convening is not a protest or a fundraiser. It is a working meeting for people who have been carrying local organizing work — often alone — to compare notes, share tools, and build the relationships that matter most as we grow the movement for democracy.
We are building a network for rapid mobilization. Statewide across West Virginia and across the region. When a moment comes that requires organized people to act quickly — in hours, not weeks — the response depends on relationships and infrastructure that already exist. This convening is where we start building both.
Rooted in the American tradition of defending the Constitution. Not owned by any party or ideology.
Every organizer working to protect democracy is welcome, regardless of political affiliation.
A shared commitment to nonviolent civic organizing as both principle and strategy.
A working day with room for both the labor and the humanity of what we're doing. We start with a meal because organizing starts with a table.
Arrive, eat, meet the room. A shared meal before any work begins.
Presentations from invited organizations and organizers. Break in the middle.
Music, a farm-style dinner, and time to connect at a pace organizing rarely allows for.
An evening of five-minute stories from participants about the moment they discovered the power of their voice.
Bring one if you have one to share.
Organizers already doing the work. Not a general audience.
Lost River Yoga
6981 State Rd 259
Lost City, WV
Lost River Yoga aka the yoga barn sits on a beautiful property in Lost River Valley. Next to the building are three historic buildings: “Schell House,” a farmhouse built in 1898, the Inn at Lost River, and the General Store, listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The 4th Annual Art in the Park runs 10 AM – 4 PM the same day at Lost River State Park in Mathias. Fine arts and craft vendors, hot food, and live music. Our convening starts with a lunch at noon. You have a good 90 minutes for the art show if you get there by 10 AM and leave by 11:30 AM.
The fee covers meals, materials, and the story hour.
Scholarships are available to cover fees, travel and lodging costs.
If it works, we'll do it again — in other counties, with other host teams. Supporting organizations aren't just underwriting one event; they're seeding the pilot of a format designed to travel across West Virginia and the region.
Sponsorship supports venue preparation, meals for 30–40 people, materials, the story hour, and the travel support fund that makes it possible for organizers from across the region to be here.
Contact us at people4democracy@proton.me