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Connecting the Film Industry to Appalachia
## Film Futures Foundation
#### **Film Futures Foundation (FFF) is an officially registered 501c(3) nonprofit that delivers access to filmmaking to the Appalachian Region. We aim to diversify the workforce and inspire future filmmakers in an underserved region. FFF will empower a new generation of storytellers and content creators to tell their stories.**
## Make Connections
Our goal is to make connections in the community to create partnerships for our programs.
## Awareness
Promote the film industry as a viable option to further diversify the workforce.
## Training
We will educate and train the community to pursue film careers.
## Gear Rental
We want to establish a rental vault used to empower story tellers.
The WV Film Tax credit was reinstated in 2022. The $50,000 threshold and 31% tax rebate makes West Virginia one of the most competitive states in the country for filming. The state has already seen over 80 inquiries and has several projects being filmed. Read more 
### Connecting Appalachia to the film industry
Film Futures Foundation will connect Appalachia to the film industry through trainings and gear rentals to allow everyone access to tell their story,
### Connecting the film industry to Appalachia
Provide resources to get the people of Appalachia found by filmmakers looking for resources in the region.
## Funding Needs
Our current priorities are obtaining funding for our camera rental vault to put more gear into peoples hands to start telling their story. Next we need to secure funding for our training programs to show the film industry coming here we are ready to help them make films.
## News
* We had a great time with Sam Hodge with Cinesavage Films. He and his wife Johnna showed the group some… 
* We had our first lighting training and it was a huge success. Matt Napier of Matt Napier Film and Photo… 
* Ashley and Justin made an appearance on the Mountaineer Media Podcast and give information on why the 501c3 was formed… 
* Dear Appalachia, The phrase, “economic diversification” can be confusing, intimidating and even scary at times.  We hear your concerns, and… 
### Upcoming Trainings
#### Boom and Sound
Announcement coming soon!
### Tr-State Film Club
We are happy to announce a new film club that is for the community.  has it’s first meeting on Jan 20 so checkout the  to get involved!
## Let’s Connect
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Film Futures Foundation - Hurricane, WV - Email Us!
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Film Futures Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 | Copyright © 2024
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###### Outreach
Empowering Communities Through Storytelling
##### Storytelling Workshops: The program will begin with storytelling workshops, where participants will learn how to develop and tell engaging stories. The workshop will cover topics such as developing a story idea, creating a compelling plot, character development, and dialogue writing.  Film Production Training: The program will then move on to film production training, where participants will learn the technical aspects of filmmaking. The training will cover topics such as camera operation, lighting, sound, and editing.
##### Film Gear Use: Participants will also receive training on how to use film gear, including cameras, lighting equipment, and sound equipment. They will learn how to set up and operate the equipment and troubleshoot common issues.
#####
##### Project-based Learning: Participants will work on a project of their choice throughout the program, with guidance from experienced filmmakers. This project will give participants hands-on experience in all aspects of filmmaking and provide them with a portfolio piece to showcase their skills.
##### Community Screenings: At the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to screen their projects in front of a live audience, showcasing their work and the positive impact it has on their communities.  Accessibility and Affordability: To make the program accessible and affordable to underserved populations, the program will be offered at a low cost or free of charge. The program will also be held in community spaces, such as libraries or community centers, to eliminate transportation barriers. Additionally, the program will offer scholarships and financial assistance to those who need it.
##### Conclusion: The “Camera, Action” program is designed to empower underserved communities in Appalachia to tell their stories through film. By providing accessible and affordable training on storytelling, film production, and film gear use, the program aims to create a diverse and inclusive community of storytellers who can use their voices to create positive change in their communitiesand beyond.
ity the order of things has awakened in our minds, the order of things can satisfy. Every man’s condition is a solution in hieroglyphic to those inquiries he would put.
Film Futures Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 | Copyright © 2025
###### West Virginia
Diversify the workforce
Our nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering underserved communities in Appalachia to tell their stories through film and to educate the broader community on the art of filmmaking. We believe that film is a powerful tool for self-expression, creativity, and social change, and we strive to provide access to the necessary equipment, resources, and education to foster a vibrant and inclusive film community. Through our camera and film gear rental program, workshops, and other educational initiatives, we aim to demystify the process of filmmaking and make it accessible to people of all backgrounds and experiences. Our goal is to inspire a new generation of filmmakers who are equipped with the skills, confidence, and community support they need to bring their stories to life. By promoting diverse and inclusive perspectives, we hope to foster greater understanding and empathy among our community members and create positive change through the power of film.
Do you need equipment to complete your idea? Our movie filming gear rental service is at the heart of our nonprofit’s mission to empower underserved communities in Appalachia to tell their stories through film. We provide access to high-quality camera equipment, lighting kits, sound equipment, and other resources to help aspiring filmmakers bring their visions to life. Our rental program is designed to be affordable and flexible, allowing filmmakers to choose the equipment they need for their projects and rent it for as long as they need it. We also offer technical support and guidance to help ensure that filmmakers are able to get the most out of their equipment and create the best possible films. By making it easier for people to access professional-grade filming gear, we hope to remove some of the barriers that have traditionally limited opportunities for diverse voices in the film industry.
We have some equipment provided by a grant from The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation that is available. Contact us and let us know what you are looking for. Just because we don’t have it, doesn’t mean we can’t ask around and try to find it for you.
Welcome to the Tri-State Film Club! Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or a complete beginner, our monthly meetups provide a creative space for all ages and experience levels. We create ultra short films from predetermined plots, and we provide the gear, all free of charge. Join us and be part of a diverse community passionate about bringing stories to life on the silver screen. Lights, camera, action!
Our first informational meeting is January 20th at Teays Valley Church of God at 1:00 PM, we hope to see you there.
This page is under construction at the moment. Check out our  page for more into!
## Founders
### Justin Williams
Justin Williams is the Park Director for Putnam County Parks and Recreation. Born in Lavalette, WV, Justin has always been passionate about making films and telling stories. He enjoys hiking and flying his drone. Justin currently resides in Hurricane, WV with his 2 children.
### Ashley Stinnett
Ashley Stinnett is an American actor, author, writer and filmmaker. Born in Huntington, WV, Ashley began acting in theatre as a child. Since then, he has appeared on television, multiple short and feature films along with numerous commercials. Since, 2006, he has been a writer for various online and print publications. Ashley currently resides in West Virginia with his wife and three sons.
## Board Members
### Mark Maynard
Mark Maynard is the Senator from Distract 6 in West Virginia and is a Marshall University Graduate. He serves on various senate committees and has a passion for serving the people of West Virginia. Mark is from Wayne, West Virginia and loves anything with a motor.
### Ashley Deal
Ashley is a grant writer and owner of Social, an event venue in Putnam County.
### Sara Stinnett
Sara Stinnett is an actress, singer and educator. Since childhood, Sara has been an accomplished model appearing in print and television advertising. Sara has also been a regular commercial and film actress since 2006. Most recently, Sara has appeared in the “Christmas at the Greenbrier” film. Sara is a full time associate professor of Human Anatomy and Physiology at BridgeValley Community and Technical College. She lives in Scott Depot with her husband and three children.
## Chris Tatum
Chris Tatum currently serves as the mayor of Barboursville, West Virginia filling that position since 2015.
Chris is also very involved in his community and serves on a variety of Community service boards and authorities. He is a member of the Goodwill Board of Directors, the Cabell County Development Authority, the Cabell County Community Corrections Board, The Robert Shell Juvenile Center Board of Directors, and is the state-wide chair of the Regional Jail Oversight Committee. He has previously served as President of the Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals and is a former recipient of the Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year for his service to the Downtown Live Committee. Chris was also recipient of a proclamation from Marshall University and President Stephen J. Kopp for his work during the premier of the movie “We Are Marshall”.
## Tijah Bumgarner
Bumgarner is a filmmaker, scholar, and professor. She teaches narrative and documentary filmmaking at Marshall University. Since writing and directing her first feature film, Meadow Bridge, in 2017, she has co-directed and starred in the experimental short Becoming Annette (2020); co-created the web series Quarantine Life (2020); served as the 1st Assistant Director for Occupational Hazard (2021) directed by Ursula Ellis; co-wrote and directed the pilot episode of Her Hope Haven (2021); co-directed the short documentary Patchwork (2022); co-produced/directed/cinematographer on the feature documentary Picture Proof (2022) and served as a cinematographer for Small Town Universe (expected: 2023) directed by Katie Dellamaggiore.
## Jessica Blank & Erik Jensen
Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen are a multihyphenate husband and wife creative team who the New Yorker calls “the foremost practitioners of documentary theater in the US.”
As a team, they are authors of The Exonerated, a genre-defining play based on interviews they conducted with death row exonerees across the US (Lortel, Outer Critics Circle, Drama Desk, Ovation, Fringe First, Herald Angel Awards; NAACP Image Award nominee; awards from the American Bar Association, The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, named “Best Play of the Year” by the New York Times).
As TV/screenwriters, Jessica and Erik currently have projects in development with David Simon/Blown Deadline, Levinson/Fontana, and Ed Burns (The Wire, Generation Kill).
Tell us what you have going on and what we can help. We are interested in talking about anything film related.  or fill out the form.
###### About us
Mission and Vision
## Vision
**Our vision is a world where every voice is heard and every story is told. We envision a future where underserved communities in Appalachia have access to the tools and resources they need to create impactful films that reflect their unique experiences and perspectives. Through our rental program and educational initiatives, we hope to inspire a new generation of filmmakers who are passionate about telling stories that matter. We believe that film has the power to connect people, bridge divides, and promote understanding, and we are committed to supporting the voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. We envision a future where storytelling is a tool for social change and a means of empowering communities to create a brighter future for themselves and future generations.** **We are proud to empower filmmakers like Jillian Carney Howell to be able to have the funds to not just learn and grow as a filmmaker, but to shine a light on one of Appalachia’s most unique towns.**
## Mission
**Our Mission as a nonprofit organization is dedicated to empowering underserved communities in Appalachia to tell their stories through film. We believe that everyone has a unique perspective to share, and we strive to provide access to the necessary equipment and resources to bring those stories to life. By offering camera and film gear rentals, as well as educational resources and community support, we aim to remove barriers and foster creativity among those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their passion for filmmaking. Our goal is to build a diverse and inclusive community of storytellers who can use their voices to create positive change in their communities and beyond.**
# **Our partners**
## Your donations **tell a story**
By donating to Film Futures Foundation, a registered 501(c)3, you will be directly contributing to our efforts to democratize filmmaking in Appalachia. Your generous contribution will support the following key initiatives.
1.      **Equipment and Resource Access:** We provide aspiring filmmakers in Appalachia with the necessary tools and resources, such as cameras, editing software, and other filmmaking equipment, to bring their stories to the screen. Your donation will help us maintain and expand our inventory, ensuring that talented individuals have the means to express themselves creatively.
**2.      Workshops and Training Programs:**We offer comprehensive workshops and training programs designed to demystify the process of filmmaking and develop the skills of budding filmmakers. These programs cover various aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and storytelling. Your support will help us continue to provide high-quality educational experiences to aspiring filmmakers in the region.
**3.      Community Outreach and Engagement:**We actively engage with local communities in Appalachia to raise awareness about the power of film and the opportunities it can bring. Through partnerships with schools, community centers, and local organizations, we strive to inspire and mentor young filmmakers, foster a sense of community, and create positive change through the medium of film. Your donation will enable us to expand our outreach efforts and touch the lives of more individuals in need.
By making a pledge to support Film Futures Foundation, you will be investing in the future of filmmaking in Appalachia. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of inspiring filmmakers, enabling them to tell their stories, share their perspectives, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive film industry.