PRIDE Community Services was founded in 1957 in response to widespread unemployment in the local coalfields. Originally organized by community leaders and the Women’s Club of Logan, the agency mobilized local businesses to help meet urgent needs by providing food, clothing, shoes, and school supplies to families in need. The organization was first known as the Council of PRIDE, with the acronym reflecting Progressive Rejuvenation Improvement and Development Enterprise.

In 1964, following the passage of the Economic Opportunity Act as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, PRIDE was incorporated as PRIDE in Logan County, Inc., becoming the first community action agency in West Virginia. With its initial federal grant, the agency expanded its mission to coordinate community resources and engage key stakeholders—including local government, civic organizations, businesses, churches, and residents—to address the root causes of poverty.

Today, PRIDE Community Services is one of fifteen designated community action agencies in West Virginia. Guided by a tripartite board, the agency brings together public officials, private sector leaders, and low-income residents to assess community needs and develop effective solutions.

PRIDE has operated from several locations over the years and has been headquartered since 1981 at the former Logan High School and McDade Hall, located at 699 Stratton Street. The property was officially donated to the agency in 2002.

In 2010, the organization was renamed PRIDE Community Services, Inc. to reflect its expanded service area and evolving mission. New branding, along with updated mission and vision statements, was introduced to support this growth.

Today, PRIDE Community Services employs approximately 125 full- and part-time staff and continues to strengthen communities by promoting opportunity, collaboration, and long-term solutions to poverty. The agency remains committed to hiring qualified professionals and supporting employee education and professional development.