There are 40 Appalachian Trail communities from Maine all the way to Georgia. Virginia has the most with 15 A.T. Communities along the trail. These towns have seen a boost in small businesses from hikers learning about these communities and their continuing support for the trail and visiting while on the trail. The ATC also acts "as a catalyst  for enhancing economic development" by teaching good economic practices. One of these towns, Damascus,  Virginia,  was a struggling  community after textile and furniture manufacturers moved overseas. However, after embracing the nearby Appalachian Trail and becoming an A.T. Community There has not been a major jump in economic production for the small town but, property values have been rising  and more people are buying homes rather than renting meaning they are intending to stay in Damascus. Damascus was featured in a YouTube video posted on the ATC's website that gave a look into the town and how it has embraced the trail, plus how that has carried over into educating young people on the importance of nature. Along with Damascus other the Virginian towns of Narrows and Bland County have also seen a jump in property value after becoming a A.T. Community.