IMPACT EVENTS
In addition to our national tour, we host cornerstone events in our flagship city of Asheville, North Carolina—bringing our local community together to celebrate, activate, and raise visibility for the impact projects we’re helping to create, finance, and amplify.
These gatherings are designed to unite stakeholders, share progress, and nuture deeper engagement around the regenerative work unfolding in our region.
EARTH DAY CELEBRATION RECAP
On April 22, we gathered in downtown Asheville to celebrate Earth Day with music, art, and powerful conversations about the future of our region.
Our “Wins & What’s Next” panel, moderated by Jennifer Germaine, featured inspiring insights from leaders at Appalachian Watershed Alliance, RiverLink, Warren Wilson College, the National Forest Foundation, and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, spotlighting the progress and partnerships shaping Western North Carolina.
Guests enjoyed live music by The Dirty French Broads, local bites from Luella’s BBQ, and the impactful "Canoe of Collective Memory" sculpture by artist Charly Louise, crafted from Hurricane Helene debris.
Special thanks to all our speakers, artists, and partners for making the evening one of connection, celebration, and forward momentum.
NATIONAL FOREST WEEK CELEBRATION
APPRECIATE OUR FORESTS
Forests are where we come alive. This June, we joined in celebrating the forests that nourish our spirits and our region. This free evening gathering honored the vital role our forests play—and the people working to protect them. Guests enjoyed live music, light bites, interactive exhibits, and a powerful sense of connection.
Event Recap — June 10, 2025 | Downtown Asheville
This National Forest Week, community members gathered at the Impact Hub in downtown Asheville to share stories, build relationships, and celebrate our region’s forest heritage.
Panel: Stories from the Forest Frontlines
From wildfire recovery to trail development, panelists shared insights on forest conservation and community impact across Western North Carolina. Moderated by Jennifer Germaine (Blueprint for Impact), the panel featured:
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James Melonas, Forest Supervisor, U.S. Forest Service
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Rachel Blackburn, Southern Appalachians Program Coordinator, National Forest Foundation
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Jon Lane, Director, G5 Trail Collective
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Jeff Maiti, COO and Trail Specialist, Pisgah Conservancy
Live Music by Micah Philipp and Branson Raines
Featuring one-of-a-kind instruments crafted from the legendary Ruby the Red Spruce—used for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree—this set brought forest history to life through song.
Lite Bites & Connection
Guests enjoyed refreshments, art activities, and engaging conversations with local leaders, families, and forest stewards.