Rocky Brands, Inc. - Rocky Community Improvement Fund

Rocky Community Improvement Fund

"Committed to improving Nelsonville and the surrounding communities
by promoting philanthropy among Rocky associates."

OUR MISSION
The mission of the Rocky Community Improvement Fund, RCIF, is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Nelsonville and the surrounding communities by promoting philanthropy among Rocky Brands associates, building an endowment and awarding grants.

THE STATISTICS
Nelsonville is located in Athens County, in the heart of Ohio's Appalachian region, which represents about 30% of the land in Ohio and 29 of its 88 counties. Statistics in this area show a population with a high percentage of people living in poverty, low per capita income, higher than average high school drop-out rates, higher infant mortality rates and out migration from the region. These observations are demonstrated in Athens County, Ohio's poorest county.

The poverty rate is 26% compared to the state average of 10%
The high school drop out rate is 12%, nearly three times the national average
Most available jobs are low-wage-earning, fast-food, cashier and retail positions.
48% of the county population is working poor
39% of the population is receiving some kind of financial assistance
32% of the population relies on the state for medical assistance

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Statistics show that only 4.1% of all charitable contributions in Ohio flow to the Appalachian region of the state, despite the fact that this region accounts for 8.2% of the state's human need. The Rocky Community Improvement Fund aims to help correct this by funneling money directly into the Nelsonville area, including the surrounding communities of Buchtel, Murray City, Glouster and Carbon Hill to name a few.

Please contact RCIF for details on giving or receiving help.
Attn: RCIF
39 East Canal St.
Nelsonville, OH 45764
740.753.9100 x2115