- People moved to West Virginia via Ascend WV after serious life events like an MS diagnosis.
- Program offers $12,000 cash plus outdoor perks; 96% of participants stay after two-year commitment.
- Private funding ($25M from Wing 2 Wing Foundation) started the program, now expanded to retain graduates, teachers, veterans.
- Economic impact estimated at $750 million by 2025, with participants averaging $100k income.
- Returnees and newcomers cite community, outdoor recreation, and lower cost of living as key draws.
- Some remote workers now face return-to-office demands but remain despite long commutes.