Rebuild Black Mountain Launches Donor-Advised Fund to Support Long-Term Recovery in Western North Carolina
October 8, 2024
Rebuild Black Mountain launches a donor-advised fund to restore outdoor recreation infrastructure, essential to local tourism and the economy, and ensure long-term recovery for the region.
Rebuild Black Mountain Launches Donor-Advised Fund to Support Long-Term Recovery in Western North Carolina
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Black Mountain, NC/ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – In response to the devastation in Western North Carolina, Rebuild Black Mountain has launched the Western North Carolina Outdoor Recreation & Community Fund of The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC). This donor-advised fund supports the long-term recovery and economic needs of Black Mountain, Montreat, and the surrounding region, focusing on rebuilding outdoor recreation infrastructure, which is vital to tourism and the local economy.
Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of the Black Mountain economy, attracting tourism that supports local families and small businesses. The fund’s goal is to ensure that donations directly support the rebuilding of homes, businesses, and outdoor spaces essential to the area’s future.
“Rebuild Black Mountain is not just about replacing what’s lost; it’s about ensuring our community thrives for generations to come,” said David Billstrom, a seasoned first responder and co-founder of the initiative. “By rebuilding our outdoor spaces, we are investing in the long-term recovery of our local economy, with tourism supporting 14% of local jobs and accounting for 20% of Buncombe County’s economy.”
The initiative is led by a passionate group of local leaders and outdoor enthusiasts, including David and Jen Billstrom, Brent and Jamie Bookwalter, Fitzalan Crowe and Ian Sherburne. Together, they are dedicated to ensuring that Black Mountain, Montreat, and the surrounding areas not only recover but also thrive for future generations. Their combined expertise in business leadership, financial management, sustainability, and conservation is driving a collaborative, strategic approach to rebuilding the region.
Brent Bookwalter, an NBC Sports On-Air Analyst and former professional cyclist, voiced his passion for the foundation’s mission: “Words cannot describe the devastation here in Western North Carolina. Yet, amidst it all, I find hope in how our community has rallied. It’s not just about rebuilding structures, but about restoring the magic of these mountains for future generations. These trails and access to nature are where I, my family, my kids, and many others—locals and visitors alike—feel most alive, healthy, and connected. It’s vital that we rebuild these spaces that give us so much.”
This philanthropic effort is working together with The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, an organization with over four decades of service in the area. “Rebuilding happens at the speed of trust, and CFWNC has earned ours,” said Billstrom. “While FEMA and other agencies provide critical emergency relief, our focus is on long-term, community-driven solutions.”
The fund seeks to coordinate with local businesses, government officials, and nonprofits to ensure effective recovery efforts. By working together, the goal is to rebuild vital infrastructure, secure local jobs, and restore outdoor spaces that draw visitors and sustain the economy.
To support the Rebuild Black Mountain Foundation and learn more about their initiatives, visit RebuildBlackMountain.org/donate
About Rebuild Black Mountain:
Rebuild Black Mountain is a community-led initiative founded by David and Jen Billstrom, Brent and Jamie Bookwalter, Fitzalan Crowe and Ian Sherburne. Focused on the long-term recovery, sustainability, and economic growth of Black Mountain, Montreat, and the greater Western North Carolina region, the organization is working to rebuild outdoor recreation infrastructure through the Western North Carolina Outdoor Recreation & Community Fund of The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina. By partnering with government agencies, nonprofits, and local organizations, Rebuild Black Mountain is committed to a collaborative, community-driven approach that ensures sustainable recovery and long-term strength.
For more information, please visit www.rebuildblackmountain.org.
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Media Contact:
Fitzalan Crowe
703-596-2020
fitzalan@rebuildblackmountain.org