$25K Raised to Date Plus Progress on Planning and Partnerships
[Updated from David]
It's been a month since Hurricane Helene, and while each day feels as long as a week, we're pushing forward with powerful momentum. Today, we’re thrilled to share some good news: with your efforts the Rebuild Black Mountain Fund has already grown to $25K.
Over the past few days, we’ve started having our first meetings focused on the first phase of planning the rebuilding. The tragedy, sorrow, and genuine fear for the future are palpable.
We’re confident in our vision and determination to rebuild, but the statistics are daunting—our Office of Advocacy shared that anywhere from 50% to 75% of small businesses in WNC could fail post-Helene. Many of these businesses remain vulnerable since Covid, and the prospect of taking on more debt is overwhelming. For some of these businesses, it feels like the end of the line.
And our purpose has never been more clear – restore the outdoor spaces, trails, and recreation opportunities that drive our Outdoor Economy, the root of the culture here, and the basis for many of these small businesses.
Despite the fear, there’s a huge network of support rallying.
This week Jennifer Billstrom, CPA, Fitzalan Crowe, Ian Sherburne, and I met in person and by phone with policymakers, elected leaders, foundations, investment funds, businesses, and dedicated organizations including
Mountain BizWorks, Venture Asheville, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, Abundance Capital, Black Mountain-Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, The Conservation Fund, Nantahala Outdoor Center, Land of Sky Economic and Community Development and more.
The expertise and commitment in these rooms are inspiring, as everyone works together to shape a sustainable “build back better” plan. We are still in the early phases of recovery, but there is hope, conviction, and setting aside of differences.
As we carefully plan with our partners, we are determined to get this funding to those who need it, so they can rebuild what we love and deeply need in our lives again.
In the coming days, I'll have more details on specific opportunities to support small businesses and the outdoor recreation industry across WNC.
You can be part of this journey and your involvement will make a lasting difference as we rebuild together. Your support fuels our long-term recovery efforts, from restoring the outdoor spaces we love to helping small businesses get back on their feet. Every dollar makes a difference in strengthening the foundation of Western North Carolina’s future. Consider making a donation today to help us reach our goals faster and support our community’s resilience.
