As the Swannanoa Valley continues to heal (alongside the rest of WNC), the Beacon Foundation has continued to work with local businesses to broaden their reach and continue fundraising.

One example of that fundraising work is happening at a prominent music venue in Asheville, NC. The Orange Peel is a local hotspot for live music, comedy and community events.

For the month of November, The Orange Peel will be donating $1 for every ticket sold to the Beacon Foundation. With a max capacity of 1,050 and a fully packed schedule for the month, that’s a lot of donations that the Beacon Foundation can use in it’s mission in supporting the Swannanoa Valley in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Similarly, another popular music venue in the area, the Grey Eagle, held a benefit concert on Wednesday, October 30 for immediate relief efforts.

Net ticket proceeds from the show are being donated to both the Swannanoa Grassroots Alliance and Beacon Foundation. Performing are two local artists: Anya Hinkle and the Greenliners; their music is steeped in Appalachian heritage.

The benefit concert was able to raise a grand total of $425 benefitting disaster relief for Swannanoa.

Both of these musical updates are celebrated progress for both the Beacon Foundation and the people of Swannanoa. There is still a long road to recovery, but these moments of community are welcome news as continue to support the valley and the individuals who call it home.