Founded in 2018, OWL is a small but passionate nonprofit dedicated to environmental education, conservation, and supporting veterans. Our mission is to foster a connection between individuals, nature, and environmental stewardship. Most recently, our efforts have shifted to emergency relief and rescue efforts in Western North Carolina (WNC) due to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. We are committed to helping our community rebuild and protect the environment as part of the long-term recovery process. 

What we know…

• All roads in WNC are considered closed. Do NOT attempt to travel into the area.

• Many towns and communities are completely devastated. Damage zones in WNC span over 200 square miles.

• Many towns and communities remain inaccessible.

• It will take MONTHS to restore power and water to many towns and communities.

• Warrior Ridge in Lenoir & HQ on LKN will remain closed until all damages can be assessed.

What we are doing…

• We have highly experienced disaster relief teams that are distributing supplies directly to those in need in impacted communities.

• We are collecting supplies and donations for supplies. Supply lists are updated periodically on our social media to meet specific community needs.

• We are thinking ahead.

  • Phase 1 - Provide direct relief and immediate essential supplies to those in need. ☑️

  • Phase 2 - Provide recovery support with long-term essential supplies. (i.e. fuel, tarps, heaters, tools, etc.) ⬅️ WE ARE HERE

  • Phase 3 - Provide environmental support by aiding in the clean up efforts.

  • Phase 4 - Provide assistance with environmental stabilization and rebuilding sustainable communities.

• We will not forget. We plan to launch an educational program that will teach children about natural disasters, how to be prepared, how to keep themselves safe, and how to help their community and the environment recover.

How you can help…

• Purchase items from our Wish List. This list is updated periodically to meet specific community needs.

• Donate to our Give Butter Campaign or through our website. Donations are being used to purchase supplies and fuel.

• Stay home and stay safe. Many want to come into the area to help personally, however the fragile infrastructure cannot support anymore than the emergency responders. We are lucky to have an HQ close enough to distribute supplies without putting extra strain on limited resources.

• Get prepared. This will be a long lasting relief and recovery effort. We will need volunteers in WNC in the near future. Please contact us if you would like to volunteer toward this effort and we will reach out when the area becomes safely accessible.

OWL Damage Updates…

• The Barn at HQ has roof and flooding damage from fallen branches and rain.

• The Dock at HQ has broken away from the gangway/pier.

• We plan to assess Warrior Ridge over the next week. (OWL personnel only)