Willa Johnson has nearly two decades of experience as a communications professional and community organizer throughout Central Appalachia. Born and raised in Letcher County, Kentucky, Willa has a deep passion for lifting up the stories of people in the region who work to recover, rebuild, and thrive. She currently serves as Disaster Recovery Communications Coordinator at Invest Appalachia, where she uplifts local leadership and shares stories of recovery and hope across the region. Her wrok focuses on amplifying the work of community-led recovery, bridging local and national narratives, and fostering trust between impacted communities and recovery stakeholders.
Willa’s long-standing history in Central Appalachian community and resilience includes leading youth programs, mutual aid efforts, and regional collaborations focused on long-term recovery and resilience. She recently served as the Appalachian Helene Response Fund Manager with the Appalachian Funders Network, supporting recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.
Willa is a mother to a kind and active son and can often be found at home reading, crafting, or dreaming up her next creative project.
“Disaster recovery is close to my heart—especially after losing my home and belongings during the 2022 Eastern Kentucky floods. I’m honored to bring both lived and professional experience into this role, helping tell the powerful stories behind the work happening across our region.”