Resilience through Unity: A Reflection on Hurricane Helene in Asheville

The passage of Hurricane Helene through Asheville was a once-in-a-lifetime event that tested the very core of our community. In the aftermath, we continue to mourn all that was lost, but we also witness how the capability, endurance, and compassion of our diverse community has helped us rebuild, support each other, and rise stronger together.

For days, and even weeks, we faced a complete disruption of basic resources—no water, electricity, phone service, Wi-Fi. 

The inability to speak to loved ones was deeply distressing. Were they ok?  Did they know we were ok?  Were we ok?

A darkness tried to set in.

The sound of sirens and helicopters stoked the sense of chaos, hour after hour, day after day.

Emergency broadcasts warned of shelter-in-place orders and ALL the road closures, leaving many feeling isolated, vulnerable.

The journey through Helene has looked different for everyone.

The nature of Asheville’s strength is its cultural diversity. This strength came to life for me when a neighbor, who had just been to the Warren Wilson College meat sale, realized the food would spoil without power. She quickly reached out to another neighbor who had plenty of charcoal, buns, and fixins. A neighborhood cookout was born. That night, nearly every person in the neighborhood came together for a shared meal, or stopped by to check in.

In those moments, it didn’t matter what race, religion, gender identity, political affiliation, or socioeconomic background we came from. People from all walks of life—young and old—shared stories, resources, emotional support, and love over a home-cooked meal. The collaboration was a beautiful demonstration of how our differences create a stronger, more resilient community. 

Neighbors worked side by side, clearing debris and offering emotional support. The bonds formed during these difficult days have only strengthened our neighborhood, making it more connected and compassionate than ever before.

Sharing stories and experiences helped us recognize that we were in a liminal space, poised between the crisis and a new beginning. Knowing that our challenges were temporary made them easier to endure, and knowing that we would endure them together, fueled our HOPE and our ability to persevere.

Now, as the seasons change, we want you to be part of Asheville's comeback. Come see the progress, support locals, and experience the Asheville area’s energy in full bloom.

While Hurricane Helene tested us, it also revealed the true heart of Asheville—a heart built on unity, compassion, and the strength that comes from embracing diversity. It is through our differences that we are made stronger, and it is through our UNITY that we will THRIVE.