Featured photo: Officials from Blue Ridge Community College and Richmond Community College unload donations. Photo by Benjamin Rickert.
Marketing & Communications Dept.
On January 15, 2025, Blue Ridge Community College received a heartfelt delivery from Richmond Community College as part of the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Richmond’s contribution, delivered to Blue Ridge’s student and employee Resource Distribution Center in Henderson County, included an impressive array of supplies gathered under the inspiring theme, “Help Us Help Them.”
Richmond Community College’s Assistant Director of Facilities Ronnie Caulder and Director of Facilities Scotty Mabe personally transported the donations from over three hours away, underscoring Richmond’s deep commitment to aiding neighbors in need.
“With an unprecedented event like this happening in such a large, vast area of this region, everybody felt like they needed to do something, to be able to help,” said Mabe. “This is going to be an ongoing effort for a long time, as people here will need help for years to come. That’s why they call us community colleges — because we serve the community.”
Richmond’s donation drive began in early November. Donation boxes were placed in primary campus buildings, and the community responded generously with contributions of winter clothing and gear, including blankets, jackets, hats, and warm socks, as well as other helpful items like deodorant, school supplies, snacks, and more. The effort brought together students, employees, and local churches, demonstrating the power of collective compassion. A week before the delivery, Richmond’s team sorted the items to prepare them for transport.
Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, president of Blue Ridge Community College, expressed her gratitude for Richmond’s generosity.
“As we navigate these difficult times, the warmth and support of our fellow community colleges are truly heartening,” she said. “Richmond Community College’s donation is more than just supplies; it’s a message of hope during these cold months. Their efforts exemplify the spirit of community colleges and the profound difference we can make together.”
Richmond’s generous act is part of a broader initiative by state and regional community colleges to support Blue Ridge students and employees most impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Blue Ridge Board of Trustees recently adopted a resolution of gratitude, formally acknowledging the vital support provided by institutions like Richmond Community College.
As community clean-up operations continue across Western North Carolina, Richmond’s donation marks another chapter in an ongoing story of resilience and collaboration. Blue Ridge’s Educational Foundation also continues to take donations for disaster relief at www.blueridge.edu/foundation.
“These efforts remind us that even in the face of great adversity, compassion and community shine brightly, reflecting the unwavering commitment of our community colleges to making a tangible difference in people’s lives,” added Benjamin Rickert, Blue Ridge’s director of communications.
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