Our YWCA community showed up in full force to serve as volunteers to support the YW's resource distribution operations. Our Distribution Center started as a way to pivot and serve the immediate needs of our community following Helene, and it grew organically as staff and friends came by the YW to check on one another and share resources. Volunteers represented old and new members, staff, the YW Board of Directors, program participants, children and partners of staff and members, and even folks who recently heard about our mission and were eager to pitch in. Together, we are WNC Strong, and together, we are on a MISSION.

The amount of folks asking to help out was overwhelming. People were eager to support the YW’s distribution efforts, and to connect with their own circles to bring in resources and spread the word about the YW’s efforts. They organized and they understood, as we do, that people who need a hand also deserve empathy, respect, and dignity. All the volunteers did serious heavy lifting, and brought diverse expertise to the table.

There are too many stories to tell them all, but some that stand out are Getting Ahead grad Beena helping transport supplies in her Working Wheels car, board member and therapist Amparo checking in on neighbors as she handed out toothbrushes and soap, CFO Rob’s wife, Katie, and son, Trey, sorting through donations of all kinds, past employee Emma and husband Thom mobilizing and organizing resources for the South Side and preparing hot meals. Members Josh and Anne pitched in multiple days, moving heavy equipment, unloading trucks, and stocking shelves. YW staff got a taste of Southside Food Share, World Central Kitchen, and Red Cross cooking, thanks to friends and neighbors who dropped off food for workers. Board members Jess, Jenny, Lisa, Tiffany, and Elizabeth brought energy and muscle to the Distribution Center. 

As news of the storm’s devastation spread, friends and family from other parts of the country began to check in as well. One pretty amazing example of this came when our CEO, Diana, finally got cell service and was able to connect with her family in another state. Family friends Howard and Michelle had contacted Momma Sierra, and wanted to help. Howard ran a successful business in trucking, and was well connected to suppliers and distributors. The next thing we knew, Howard and Michelle started a text chain with Diana to find out what our needs were. Before long, they arrived in our parking lot with hand trucks, a powerlift, empty water totes, and supplies. And that was just the first time.

We are grateful for everyone who helped with willing hands and an open heart. It is not typical to see such a large, diverse group just know what to do with conversation and discussion. Together, we can make things happen.