This past MLK weekend, United by Blue partnered with Mountain True, a local conservation organization that helps to create clean waters, resilient forests, and healthy communities in Western North Carolina. We hosted a cleanup outside of Asheville, North Carolina along the French Broad River. This area was hit hard by Hurricane Helene last September. Areas across western North Carolina are still recovering from the immense flood and wind damage.
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Over 65 volunteers spent their Saturday morning removing debris from tree tops, river banks, and island shores. Some traveled up to 4 hours to lend their hand to aid in the volunteer efforts. Lots of these volunteers were a part of the B Corp of Benefit Corporation community who rallied together to inject new energy into the WNC recovery efforts.
We were able to remove over 4,000 pounds of debris from Walnut Island River Park in just around 90 minutes. The work to rebuild WNC and remove debris from waterways is just beginning. We hope to be back to continue aiding in these recovery efforts later this year.
While the weather started off cold and rainy, by the time we finished cleaning, everyone was shedding layers and warming up in the sun. After the final trash weighing and packing up, we headed to the local New Belgium Brewing Company. They graciously donated drinks to all of the volunteers.
