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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
UPCOMING EVENTS
Forests are where we come alive. This June, join us in celebrating the forests that nourish our spirits and our region. This free evening gathering honors the vital role our forests play and the people working to protect them. Expect live music, light bites, engaging conversation, and a powerful sense of connection.
Celebrate National Forest Week in Asheville —
A Free Community Gathering
June 10, 2025 | 5:30–8:30 PM
📍 Blueprint for Impact Hub | 81 Broadway St., Downtown Asheville
🎤 Panel: Stories from the Forest Frontlines 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Hear from leaders deeply rooted in forest conservation, trail development, and community impact across Western North Carolina. Moderated by Jennifer Germaine, Co-Founder of Blueprint for Impact.
Panelists include:
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James Melonas | Forest Supervisor, Forest Service, National Forests in North Carolina
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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 Maitz | Chief Operating Officer and Program Director / Trail Specialist, The Pisgah Conservancy
🎶 Live Music by Micah Philipp and Branson Raines
Enjoy the soulful sounds of Micah Philipp and Branson Raines, featuring one-of-a-kind instruments crafted from the legendary Ruby the Red Spruce—the former U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, now given new life through music.
🥂 Lite Bites & Networking
Doors open at 5:30 PM. Enjoy drinks, small bites, and great conversation with fellow forest lovers, conservationists, and community members.
🎟️ RSVP encouraged — this event may reach capacity!