BURNSVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Yancey County marked the two-year milestone of Helene on Sunday with an event that highlighted the progress made since the storm.
The storm caused major flooding with landslides that left many isolated and waiting for help. Speakers at the event talked about the county’s resiliency and how community members came together to help.
Luke Howe, the executive director of the AMY (Avery, Mitchell, Yancey) Wellness Foundation, said the storm forever changed the landscape of the county and also people’s lives, but that the recovery process is continuing.
“Whenever things get tough, people in this community always come together,” he said. “This event is a chance for us to get together and celebrate the progress that’s been made.”
There were speakers from community organizations and lawmakers, and also a special message from country singer Eric Church.
Speakers and Special Guests Included:
John Blackburn, Chief Cares
Senator Ralph Hise
Christopher Pike & Michael Foley, Scars on the Mountain Documentary
Jason Kimak, Samaritan’s Purse
Vrindavan Bellord, We Must Protect
Thomas Johnson, Chief Cares
Jeremy Dotts, Mountain Heritage High School
Stephanie Johnson, Rebuilding Hollers
Luke Howe, AMY Wellness Foundation
Dr. Susan Mims, Dogwood Health Trust
Winston McGregor, Chief Cares
Bands: Abby Bryant and Lesa Autrey