MORGANTOWN — A new mobile app designed to connect West Virginians to essential community services is currently in development, and the organizations behind it are asking for public input to help shape its design.

The West Virginia University Center for Excellence in Disabilities (WVU CED) has partnered with Hope in Action Alliance, Inc. (HIAA) to create TheLink, a mobile app designed to reduce barriers and expand access to essential resources. TheLink will connect individuals and families to certified recovery housing, transportation, domestic violence shelters, and other critical community supports. By directing users to resource pages managed by expert organizations, the app ensures information remains accurate, credible, and easy to navigate.  

To guide the app’s development, a community assessment survey has been launched to gather information from residents about the services they use, the gaps they experience, and what features would be most helpful in a centralized support tool.

“TheLink represents a significant step forward in breaking down barriers to essential community resources, empowering individuals and families to access support with greater ease and confidence,” said Dr. Lesley Cottrell, director of the WVU Center for Excellence in Disabilities.

Developers say the app will feature a user-friendly design and include tools such as a personalized calendar to support individuals navigating mental health challenges, substance use, or other health diagnoses, as well as those with different abilities.

“Our goal is to create an app that simplifies what can feel overwhelming,” said Mary Newlyn, executive director of HIAA. “By making resources easier to find and access, TheLink will empower people of all ages to connect with the support they need, when they need it.”

The survey will guide the app’s design and content to reflect community needs. In addition, a detailed regional assessment is underway in Region 4, covering Barbour, Braxton, Doddridge, Gilmer, Harrison, Lewis, Marion, Monongalia, Preston, Randolph, Taylor, Tucker, and Upshur counties.  

While the regional assessment focuses on these 13 counties, the survey is open to all who wish to contribute.

The project is made possible through funding from the WVU CED via a subcontract with HIAA.

Residents interested in participating in the survey can do so online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/9LV8LXP.

The West Virginia University Center for Excellence in Disabilities improves the lives of West Virginians by providing evidence-based services and training opportunities, conducting research to develop innovative approaches to care and support, and sharing information about resources across the state and nation.

Hope in Action Alliance, Inc. (WVHIAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit strengthening communities in West Virginia and the Appalachian region by connecting local efforts with statewide systems. Through collaboration, network-building, and community engagement, WVHIAA expands successful projects and drives impact across the continuum of care.