Experience that matters
Your top choice in Revitalization and Development
Amanda Killen is an accomplished community and economic development professional with a proven track record in successful grant writing and project implementation. A resident of Tazewell, Virginia, with deep roots in Central Appalachia, I am passionately committed to driving the Appalachian region forward and making a positive impact on the communities I serve. Throughout my career, I have been instrumental in managing successful fundraising campaigns for numerous nonprofits and municipalities, securing grants in excess of $5M to fuel community development, economic diversification, and regional tourism initiatives. My expertise in writing and procuring grants has empowered organizations and businesses to realize their visions and contribute to the growth of the region. In 2020, while serving as the Director of Community Development for the Town of Tazewell, with the joint position of Executive Director of nonprofit, Tazewell, Today, I achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the highly coveted Virginia Main Street designation from the Governor of Virginia. This prestigious recognition, shared by only 28 other communities in the state, was a long-cherished community goal, and its realization has positively transformed the Town of Tazewell. As a seasoned professional, I thrive in collaborative environments and excel in managing diverse teams to achieve optimal results. My skills in strategic analysis, relationship building, creative problem-solving, and strong communication have been pivotal in driving successful outcomes for various projects.
I am driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of others and strengthen the fabric of the communities I serve. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, I continue to seek opportunities to leverage my expertise to drive sustainable growth, foster prosperity, and create a brighter future for Appalachia.
$8+ Million Dollars in Secured Funding and Counting
See our Freelance Experience
Richlands, VA Library
Through a combination of strategic grant acquisition and innovative fundraising initiatives, I successfully raised over $500,000 to support the Richlands, Virginia Public Library. My proactive approach and dedication to securing funding played a pivotal role in enhancing the library’s resources and services, contributing to its positive impact on the community.
Town of Tazewell EMS
I actively contributed to securing $471,000 in funds for the Town of Tazewell EMS. This achievement played a crucial role in the establishment of a new building and garage, marking a significant enhancement in the capabilities of EMS services within the community.
Downtown Revitalization
I am actively engaged in downtown revitalization efforts for North Tazewell, VA, leveraging both a Community Development Block Grant and the Department of Environmental Quality grants. These initiatives aim to enhance the local community, fostering sustainable growth and contributing to the overall development of North Tazewell.
Sunnyside Property Development
Through a successful public-private partnership, I orchestrated the acquisition of $1.4 million in grants to transform an apartment building into a short-term lodging facility. This collaborative effort not only secured substantial funding but also paved the way for repurposing the space, contributing to the establishment of a valuable lodging resource in the community.
Professional Experience
New Economy Program Coordinator | Appalachian Voices
Present
- Spearheading grant writing and technical support
initiatives for coal-impacted communities in Southwest
Virginia, focusing on outdoor recreation, economic
development, tourism, and community development
projects. - Facilitating impactful community listening sessions to
identify the needs and aspirations of local residents,
ensuring project alignment with community values.
Executive Director | Tazewell Today
2018-2022
- Led grant writing efforts for the Town of Tazewell,
including a Virginia’s Main Street Designation grant. - Managed comprehensive grant reporting to private
entities, state, and federal agencies, ensuring compliance
and accountability for the nonprofit entity. - Fostered and sustained relationships with funders,
volunteers and community stakeholders. - Oversaw marketing strategies including social media,
print and traditional media channels. - Managed media relations, encompassing news
interviews and more.