Brevard College prides itself on the experiential learning model and it did not take long for the first-year students to roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves in the college’s motto: Learn in Order to Serve. Thanks to a recent grant from the Walnut Cove Members Association, students continued a campus tradition of serving the greater Brevard community. The new Tornados and their peer leaders used the Walnut Cove grant for transportation to six organizations in Transylvania County for Move a Mountain Day. Move a Mountain Day is a service-focused experience that offers new students a chance to volunteer in their new community. Students spent their time working at six local organizations including the Cindy Platt Boys and Girls Club, The Family Place, Free Rein, Headwaters Outfitters, Habitat for Humanity, and the Haven.
In a special case of taking care of the BC family, one student group was able to help alumni-owned business, Headwaters Outfitters. The French Broad River based outfitters experienced massive damage as a result of the recent floods from Tropical Storm Fred. The storm dropped over 20 inches of rain on the headwaters of the French Broad in a two-day period, which led to disaster downstream. The new Tornados jumped into action and helped clear flood debris and trash.
“As a peer leader at BC, I was able to help the first-year students for Move a Mountain Day. It was great seeing all of the students come together for a common cause. I hope this experience encourages them to continue giving back to their community.” – Ashton Cashwell `23