Paul Smith’s College today announced that, from January 13-19, 2025, students from the Disaster Management & Response (DMR) Club will bring their classroom knowledge to life as they volunteer in Buncombe County, North Carolina. The region is still reeling from the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and these dedicated students are stepping up to help the communities rebuild.
The DMR Club, which draws students from various programs across campus, represents the unique interdisciplinary approach that Paul Smith’s College is known for. This team of volunteers brings diverse expertise, including logging, ecological restoration, psychological first aid and emergency medicine—a combination rarely found at other academic institutions.
Armed with tools and a steadfast commitment, the students will tackle a range of recovery tasks, including:
- “Mucking and gutting:” Clearing homes damaged by flooding and landslides.
- Trail restoration and tree removal: Repairing access to natural and community resources.
- River cleanup: Helping restore vital waterways.
The team has partnered with local organizations and nearby Warren Wilson College to maximize their impact, with a particular focus on supporting fellow “Smitties”—alumni of Paul Smith’s College—who may be in need.
“This trip is a powerful demonstration of how our students embody the values of service, grit and collaboration,” said Chris Sheach, Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator for Disaster Management and Response at Paul Smith’s College. “Their willingness to volunteer their time, skills and even personal resources to help others speaks volumes about their character and the education they receive at Paul Smith’s.”
Call for Support
The students have worked tirelessly to raise funds for this trip, covering 50% of the total cost, with the remaining balance coming from their own contributions. However, additional support is needed to sustain their efforts and cover the cost of critical tools and equipment.
Donations to sponsor equipment would help ensure that tools can be repaired or replaced as needed, creating a sustainable model for future disaster recovery initiatives led by Paul Smith’s College students.
To donate to the DMR Club, please visit paulsmiths.edu/give, and tag Disaster Management and Response Club in the comments.
About Paul Smith’s College
Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, Paul Smith’s College is “The College of the Adirondacks,” where students combine immersive learning with hands-on experiences that prepare them to tackle real-world challenges.
To donate to the DMR Club,
please visit
paulsmiths.edu/give
Tag
“Disaster Management and Response Club”
in the comments.
Thank you.
