Appalachian Impact

Appalachian Impact is a summer service week for high school youth groups, based at Lutheridge Camp & Conference Center in Arden and Lutherock Camp in Newland, two camps in the mountains of Western North Carolina. In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated communities across this region, and while the headlines have faded, the work of rebuilding is ongoing. Recovery here will take years, possibly decades, and Appalachian Impact invites youth groups to become part of that long road, showing up for neighbors who are still rebuilding their homes, their livelihoods, and their communities.

Each week includes up to three days of service and learning alongside local partners. Projects may include supporting local food pantries and distribution centers, debris cleanup, community gardens, environmental restoration, and community support efforts. Groups may also have the chance to experience cultural immersion in rural Appalachian communities and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, learning directly from the people whose history, traditions, and ongoing story are woven into these mountains. After the work, each group chooses an adventure day, with options like whitewater rafting, ziplining, tubing, hiking a mountain summit, or swimming beneath a waterfall. Evenings and downtime bring favorite camp activities, giving youth space to rest, reflect, and grow closer as a group.

Rooted in service and community, Appalachian Impact calls youth groups to serve with humility, build real relationships with the people of Western North Carolina, and return home with a deeper understanding of the region: its needs, its resilience, and its beauty. Every group that comes adds to a recovery that depends on people who keep showing up.

To reserve a week for your group, email Pastor Drew Yoos at dyoos@novusway.org.

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