Craddock Center Inc

The Craddock Center Inc is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people in Southern Appalachia. Founded in 2001 in response to an initiative by Cherry Log Christian Church, it is named after Dr. Fred Craddock, a renowned minister emeritus and professor, and his wife Nettie Craddock.

Mission and Programs

The mission of the Craddock Center is to provide educational and cultural programs for children, families, and communities in Southern Appalachia. The organization focuses on addressing basic needs while encouraging self-improvement and cultural enrichment.

Key Programs

• Children’s Enrichment Program (CEP): This signature program offers free music, storytelling, and puppet shows to children in the region. It targets schools with high percentages of students receiving free or reduced-price lunches, enhancing school readiness and literacy skills.
• Camp Craddock: A traveling summer camp aimed at preventing summer learning loss among children. It includes activities like songs, stories, games, and crafts.
• The Story Express: Distributes hundreds of books to classrooms and community events, promoting literacy and a love for reading.
• The Living Room: A furniture outreach program providing essential household items to families in crisis.
• Songs & Stories: An annual event celebrating Appalachian music and storytelling traditions.
• Craddock Cares: An outreach program offering support kits for individuals in emergency situations.

Governance and Funding

The Craddock Center operates with its own Board of Directors, managing its programs and finances independently. It relies on donations and grants to support its activities, and contributions are tax-deductible.

Impact and Recognition

The organization has established a reputation for bringing "Happy & Hope" to communities across Southern Appalachia through its arts-based educational programs. Despite its strong grassroots impact, the Craddock Center has received a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its operational efficiency and transparency in nonprofit practices.

[1] https://www.craddockcenter.org/about/ [2] https://www.craddockcenter.org [3] https://www.craddockcenter.org/programs/ [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/10597551/202403439349300405/full [5] https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/010597551