Asheville Community Comes Together in Wake of Hurricane Helene
Asheville has been buzzing with compassion and resilience following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. In these challenging times, local organizations are stepping up to lend a helping hand, and one senior living community is leading the charge. Harmony at Reynolds Mountain, a cherished asset in Asheville’s senior living landscape, has announced a remarkable $100,000 donation aimed at aiding those affected by the storm.
Swift Action for Immediate Relief
The generous donation, coming from the Smith Family Charitable Foundation, is set to benefit five key organizations actively engaged in both immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. Checks are being presented to the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, The United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, Asheville Buncombe Institute for Parity Achievement, Baptists on Mission, and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. These funds will empower each organization to provide essential resources and support to individuals and families on the frontline of disaster recovery.
Among the myriad ways Harmony at Reynolds Mountain is aiding their community, over 100 furniture and household items, valued at more than $50,000, will be donated to the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. This effort is particularly focused on assisting families in Asheville who are working to rebuild their homes and lives after the storm’s devastation.
A Message from Leadership
James R. Smith, owner of Harmony at Reynolds Mountain, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to provide substantial support during this crisis. “We are grateful for the opportunity to offer support and financial assistance to those who provide direct services to aid our neighbors in Asheville affected by the recent storm,” Smith said. He went on to acknowledge the overwhelming need within the community and emphasized the importance of stepping up when resources are scarce. “For this reason, our organization is dedicated to support critical needs of people, families, and communities where it’s needed most.”
Community Support at Every Level
The Resident Council at Harmony played an instrumental role in deciding where to direct the generous contributions. Led by Chair Marylyn Huff, the council represents the voice of residents and played a pivotal part in identifying the most impactful recipients for the donation.
“The Smiths’ significant donation to these on-the-ground organizations will make an immediate impact and also help with the long-time recovery to come,” said Huff. She expressed deep appreciation for the leadership and commitment shown by Harmony Senior Services, stating, “We are truly grateful Harmony Senior Services has lived out its principle of ‘Family Serving Families’. Outstanding leadership on every level has resulted in our being better cared for than any senior resident facility in WNC.”
On the Ground Support
But the support doesn’t stop there. Harmony Senior Services CEO Ken Segarnick, along with other leadership team members, has been actively engaged in providing ground support during this crisis. They have initiated an emergency trailer equipped with vital supplies like water, assuring that residents’ safety and well-being are prioritized throughout the recovery process.
A Bright Light in Difficult Times
As the Asheville community navigates the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the spirit of togetherness is shining bright. With organizations like Harmony at Reynolds Mountain stepping up to assist, it’s clear that in times of hardship, Asheville truly embodies the idea of neighbors helping neighbors. The combined efforts of community members, local organizations, and dedicated leadership are not just making a difference—they’re fostering hope and rebuilding lives.
In a world where the stakes can feel overwhelming, it’s comforting to see so many individuals and organizations come together, proving that compassion and resilience can triumph in the face of adversity. The road to recovery may be long, but with every step forward, Asheville’s community spirit remains unyielding.
