ABOUT riseupwv.org

The domain riseupwv.org represented Rise Up West Virginia, a grassroots, people-powered political advocacy organization based in Charleston, West Virginia. The organization was founded to give voice to working-class communities and mobilize citizens around progressive policies, economic justice, healthcare, and democratic reform.

MISSION AND VALUES

Rise Up WV operated on the belief that real political power comes from ordinary people organizing together, not from political elites or special interests. Their core mission was to:

• Advocate for a fair economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy.
• Protect and expand access to affordable healthcare.
• Defend civil liberties and voting rights.
• Build inclusive political power by uplifting marginalized voices.
• Demand accountability from elected officials, regardless of party.

ORGANIZATIONAL MODEL

Rise Up West Virginia was not affiliated with any political party. Instead, it described itself as “independent, volunteer-driven, and community-focused.” It offered a political home for individuals who felt unrepresented by the existing political system but wanted to take meaningful action in their communities.

KEY CAMPAIGNS & INITIATIVES

1. Healthcare for All: Advocacy for expanding Medicaid, resisting cuts to public health programs, and supporting universal healthcare.
2. Fair Housing & Utilities: Campaigns to stop utility shutoffs, support renters’ rights, and hold corporations accountable for unjust rate hikes.
3. Voter Empowerment: Voter registration drives, education campaigns, and legislative advocacy for expanded voter access.
4. Candidate Accountability: Organizing town halls, petition drives, and protest actions targeting public officials who failed to serve community interests.
5. Worker Rights: Solidarity with unions, support for minimum wage increases, and opposition to anti-worker legislation.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Hosted local chapter meetings open to the public.
• Held public forums, listening sessions, and community potlucks.
• Organized direct actions like rallies, marches, and petition deliveries.
• Offered leadership development training for new volunteers and local organizers.

COLLABORATIONS

Rise Up WV often partnered with other progressive organizations, both statewide and nationally, such as:

• West Virginia Citizen Action Group
• People’s Action Network
• Local labor unions and housing justice movements

STRUCTURE AND MEMBERSHIP

• Led by a core team of volunteer organizers.
• Supported by community members through small donations and local fundraising.
• Encouraged democratic decision-making and collective action at every level.

CONTACT

• Email: [email protected]

SUMMARY

riseupwv.org served as a digital hub for Rise Up West Virginia, providing resources for civic action, political education, and local organizing. The platform was instrumental in rallying people around progressive causes, building grassroots leadership, and advancing a vision of justice, equity, and inclusive democracy in West Virginia.