Ascend Heroes
A new chapter for those who served, West Virginia invites Veterans to build their future in Almost Heaven.
Calling all Heroes
Ascend Heroes is a new initiative of Ascend WV in partnership with the State of West Virginia, created to serve those who have served our nation. Built specifically for Veterans, the program invites men and women who answered the call to continue their next chapter in West Virginia, a state grounded in resilience, service, and community.
With a deep military heritage and a strong sense of pride, West Virginia welcomes those who served with open arms. Ascend Heroes connects participants to a high quality of life in Almost Heaven, while honoring the leadership, skills, and commitment they bring with them.
Ascend Heroes is more than a relocation program. It is West Virginia’s way of giving back and continuing to serve the heroes who served us.
Eligibility Details
Ascend Heroes is open to U.S. military Veterans! Participants must also be employed full-time in a role that can be performed remotely, be self-employed with a remote-capable business, or have secured a full-time position based in West Virginia. Full eligibility details and required documentation can be found here.
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$12,000 Cash
Life in West Virginia is a reward in itself, but Ascend Heroes takes it a step further by offering those who served a $12,000 cash incentive to make the move. Participants receive the funds over two years in 24 equal monthly payments, or, if you purchase a home during the program, the remaining balance can be accelerated into a single lump sum. There are no restrictions on how the money is used. In the Mountain State, your dollar stretches further, letting you focus on building your next chapter.
Explore the Offer
Outdoor Adventures
Take a break, reset, and reconnect in the great outdoors. In West Virginia, Veterans have unlimited access to adventure and open space that restores both body and mind. Whether it’s a peaceful hike close to home or an adrenaline-filled experience like whitewater rafting, off-roading, or rock climbing, the outdoors here offer the perfect way to recharge after a day’s work or service to your community.
Find Adventures
Social Programming
Finding your circle in West Virginia is easy. Through welcoming events and shared experiences, you’ll connect with fellow Veterans and other program participants alike while getting to know your new community. From outdoor adventures to local experiences, these moments are designed to help you feel at home and build lasting connections from day one.
APPLY NOW
Ready to take the next step and become an Ascend Hero? Applications are now open, so start filling out your application and begin your ascent today.
Where can Ascend Heroes live?
Program participants can make their new home in any of the existing Ascend communities, with a six-month window to settle in after acceptance. Looking to live somewhere else in West Virginia? We can sometimes make exceptions on a case-by-case basis—so be sure to let us know where you would need to live when you submit your application.
Other Resources & Support
As an Ascend Heroes participant, you’ll have access to all the Veteran resources West Virginia has to offer—from healthcare and education benefits to career support and community programs. On top of that, the program team is here to provide guidance and assistance every step of the way, helping you navigate these resources and making sure you get the most out of your move and new life in Almost Heaven.