Board Secretary and Vice President Recovery efforts in Appalachia began with the unwavering response from rural communities and the deep roots shared by families like the Phillips. Siblings Sophia and Tony Phillips, lifelong residents of the area, were among the many who began organizing recovery efforts the day Helene hit. Their longstanding relationships in Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties helped lay the foundation for what ARP is today. Both serve on local Long Term Recovery Group boards and continue to lead daily operations with heart, humility, and a commitment to their neighbors. They now balance their pre-Helene lives with the responsibility of connecting residents to the support and resources they need. Email Sophia at, sophia@appalachianrebuildproject.org
Isaiah Nichols, known to many as Wendigoon, is a YouTuber, internet personality, and Appalachian. Born in Kentucky and residing in East Tennessee, Isaiah has been a longtime friend of the Phillips. After Hurricane Helene's landfall, Isaiah promptly made the trip to WNC to assist in ARP's volunteer effort. His love for the region and large online presence brought much-needed national attention to the crisis in Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties. His ongoing advocacy and involvement have been instrumental in keeping ARP connected to supporters across the country. Check out Isaiah's YouTube content surrounding ARP and Hurricane Helene, The Deadly Aftermath, Story, & Footage of a Flood in the Mountains The Appalachian Rebuild Project
A lifelong resident of Yancey County, Gillian Gavenus’s life, like many others, was deeply changed by Hurricane Helene. In the wake of the storm, she became a crucial part of ARP’s mission by coordinating volunteers from across the country. Her local insight, compassion, and organizational strength have helped connect people from near and far to the recovery work happening here on the ground. Email Gillian at, gil@appalachianrebuildproject.org
Volunteer Leads Adam and Aaron are WNC locals through and through, hardworking, generous, and always ready to lend a hand. Each week, they lead volunteer workdays across Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties, offering guidance, muscle, and good humor. If you sign up to volunteer with ARP, you’ll likely find yourself digging in with Adam and Aaron, two of the finest mud shovelers Appalachia has to offer.