It is difficult to write about anything other than the impact of Hurricane Helene and its far-reaching implications for our region. While the people and businesses who have been most affected continue to struggle through this difficult time I have been scouring Facebook and Instagram amazed by all of the volunteer groups and people who genuinely care.
It is impressive to see the grassroots efforts ready to aid those in need. Thank you to all those on-ground getting your hands dirty, rebuilding roads, homes and businesses. Thank you to those offering medical services including mental health needs. Thank you to those who have donated your time and money to help western North Carolina and east Tennessee. Given the destruction of the Asheville River Arts District, which damaged 80% of the buildings in the prominent art community, I want to highlight some creative ways people are helping the community.
Goose, the band, has partnered with Conscious Alliance for two Hurricane Helene Relief Benefit Events in October. The first show was in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and the second was in Birmingham, Alabama. Proceeds from the show are “providing critical support to the communities in Western North Carolina devastated by the storm.” The band is from Connecticut and is known for its “seemingly infinite tour schedule” and groovy tunes of musical exploration.
The Fischman Gallery in Johnson City had a River Arts Relief Fund Auction on Oct. 10 raising over $12,000 for the River Arts District. They are having another auction on Nov. 14, 2024 from 5:30 – 9:30 pm. Danielle Byington, english professor at ETSU, contributed a piece to the gallery. Owner Nancy Fischman hosts “monthly exhibits showcasing local and regional artists in Northeast Tennessee.”
North Carolina native Gabriella de Souza, owner of The Plant Ecologist, sells stickers, shirts and hoodies on her website to support relief efforts. One-hundred percent of proceeds in the collection benefit hurricane victims. The sticker says, “Carolina on my mind” and “features hand-drawn artwork inspired by the beautiful Appalachian region.” The artist offers various items in her shop and hosts workshops like making a pumpkin planter and flower arranging while enjoying brunch.
Edwin Salas, an artist who lost all of his artwork at the Marquee in the River Arts District, has made t-shirts and prints and is asking for support due to the loss of his art. He shared pictures and videos of his work, all completely damaged. The shirt and print say “Asheville Will Survive,” and features a Phoenix with a heart on its belly. Edwin is originally from Costa Rica and has “over 25 years of international experience in puppetry.” His artistic focus is on toy art, naming different toy lines relevant to the pop culture he was inspired by such as “Salas Wars” and “Mexican Bootlegs.”
Love Asheville From Afar is an “initiative that connects the global community with Asheville area and Buncombe County small businesses and creatives to support regional economic recovery.” Explore Asheville launched the website in October and features over 500 local businesses. There is a wide variety of shops to support, including coffee, jewelry, cakes, art and paper goods.
Whether your way of caring and helping the community is on-ground, monetary or a creative endeavor to raise money and awareness, there are plenty of ways to help our region. ETSU has a webpage dedicated to offering support and receiving support. For those negatively affected, please remember we want to help however we can, and we are with you.
