Donna Salisbury is a grandmother and community advocate from Clay County, West Virginia, who is leading efforts to support local “grandfamilies” – households where grandparents are raising their grandchildren, often due to the impact of substance use. Drawing on her own experience raising a grandchild, Donna is creating a network and support program at the Clay Family Support Center, centrally located in downtown Clay, to provide resources, information, and guidance to these families. Her vision includes homework help for children, access to local events, legal support, and respite opportunities, all designed to empower grandparents and improve the lives of the kids in their care.

Donna’s work addresses a critical gap by connecting grandfamilies with both one another and resources, providing a safe space to share knowledge and strengthening bonds in-community. She approaches challenges with determination and adaptability, seeing setbacks as opportunities to pivot and find new solutions. Through her leadership, Donna is building a support system where grandfamilies can move beyond surviving and into thriving, ensuring both caregivers and children have the tools and guidance they need.