News
When Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina in late September last year, few could have imagined the scale of devastation that would follow. With damages now estimated at more than $53 billion—including both physical destruction and economic fallout, the region faces a long road to recovery. But amid the wreckage, a quiet, powerful story of hope is taking shape—one built on compassion, resilience, and community.
Foundry Commercial associates have spent the last nine months stepping into that story. Two individuals in particular—Managing Director Warren Snowdon and Director of Project Management David Kafel—have made it a personal mission to return to the Asheville area time and again to lend their hands and hearts.
David Kafel has been working with BeLoved Asheville, an organization that’s been a lifeline for countless families. BeLoved’s mission is rooted in building equity, health, and opportunity for all. In the aftermath of the hurricane, their team rushed flood relief supplies across the state, delivering support where it’s needed most and creating new paths toward stability and hope.
When the travel team stopped to meet up with BeLoved Asheville Director Amy Cantrell, she shared her gratitude for those willing to serve, as well as her amazement at how people from all over the country have come together to support those in the greater Asheville area impacted by Hurricane Helene.
“At the height of Hurricane Helene, we were serving 15,000 people a day—but what’s stayed with me most is the way neighbors became kin. Thousands rose up, from right here and from all over the country, to show what it really means to be human: to give, to serve, and to lift each other up. We’re still here—repairing homes, preventing evictions, putting people to work—because the power we have is in each other. And there’s no better time to use it,” she added.
Meanwhile, Warren Snowdon has joined forces with his friend Hans Hilgenstock, founder of Mountains of Hope. Together with volunteers, this grassroots group has been entering the hardest-hit neighborhoods to make vital repairs—and just as importantly, to deliver the warmth of human connection.
During Foundry’s recent Serve Week, members of the Serve Week travel team had the opportunity to join Warren and David in Asheville. They witnessed firsthand the ongoing recovery work, and the strength of the people leading it. Whether it’s a couple grappling with lost income due to plummeting tourism, or a local organizer throwing a birthday party for a child who lost everything, stories of quiet heroism and perseverance are everywhere.
The message is clear: the work is far from over. But thanks to countless individuals coming together, there’s real momentum… and room for more helpers.
Foundry associates can still make a difference. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to lend support, consider connecting with the organizations on the frontlines:
- BeLoved Asheville
- Reynolds Mountain Christian Academy – currently seeking help to replace their damaged gym floor.
Cantrell added: “This region has shown the world what love in action looks like. We’re caring for bodies and spirits, shoring up the economic floor, and taking a holistic approach to healing. It’s a hard time for so many, but what we’ve always believed is true: we all have something to give. And now, more than ever, we remember that the greatest gift we have is each other.”
Watch the video below. Be moved. And if you feel called to help, reach out to Warren (warren.snowdon@foundrycommercial.com) and David (david.kafel@foundrycommercial.com) directly. They are organizing a group to make a trip on Sunday, August 3rd to serve the western North Carolina community.
A little love goes a long way.