In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, numerous Orange County Government employees traveled to Western North Carolina (WNC) to assist communities grappling with devastation. From coordinating relief efforts to managing shelters, these individuals made an extraordinary impact in the region, demonstrating resilience, compassion, and commitment to service.
Immediate Response to Crisis
Kirby Saunders, Orange County’s Emergency Services Director, was among the first to deploy. He led an Incident Management Team (IMT) in Black Mountain, coordinating essential services such as search and rescue operations, commodity distribution, and infrastructure restoration. "We arrived 72 hours after impact to find the town without water, power, and only hours of fuel remaining for critical services," Saunders shared. Yet, he marveled at the resilience of residents and leaders. "Despite the devastation, they focused on solutions and welcomed us with open arms."
Alicia Stemper, Communications Manager for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, served as a Public Information Officer in Avery County. She was struck by the collaborative spirit among responders from across the country. "The camaraderie was instant and intense," Stemper said. "Everyone worked tirelessly on behalf of the residents, showing extraordinary compassion and urgency."
Behind the Scenes: Organizing Support
While responders worked in the field, Orange County’s Emergency Management team back home coordinated logistics. They ensured deployed teams had supplies, tracked their progress, and arranged support upon their return. "Knowing there was a team providing overwatch gave us comfort," said Saunders.
The Health Department also played a critical role, deploying seven staff members, including Victoria Hudson, Director of Environmental Health. Hudson’s team helped establish operational facilities in Yancey County to support exhausted rescuers and organize volunteer efforts. “It’s remarkable how much meaningful work can be accomplished in those critical first weeks,” Hudson said.
Lessons in Preparedness
Each responder emphasized the importance of individual and community preparedness. "Severe weather is becoming more frequent and intense," Saunders noted. "Every resident should have a plan and a three-day emergency supply kit." Stemper added, “When everything you have washes away, planning might not feel sufficient. But calm, confidence, and strong emergency response systems are crucial."
Ongoing Support for WNC
As communities in WNC work toward recovery, responders urge continued support. "Recovery will take time, and they’ll need assistance long after the headlines fade," Stemper emphasized. Donations, volunteering, and advocacy for disaster relief resources are critical to helping the region rebuild.
Orange County’s employees as well many others including, municipal employees and residents, exemplified the power of coming together in the face of tragedy. The stories here inspire not only gratitude but also a call to action: to prepare, support, and stand united in the wake of future challenges.
How You Can Help:
- Community members should continue to provide cash donations to reputable voluntary agencies or the state disaster fund at www.nc.gov/donate or mail a donation to 20312 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699.
- People who want to volunteer should connect with a voluntary agency active in disaster (VOAD) at https://www.ncvoad.org/volunteer/ These groups coordinate with local and State emergency management to ensure a coordinated response.
- Advocate for increased resources and preparedness measures.
- While many areas of Western North Carolina work to recover and rebuild from the impact of Hurricane Helene, one way to support the state is to visit the cities and counties that are open and welcoming guests. Explore what is open at the Visit North Carolina website: https://www.visitnc.com/western-nc-recovery
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Photo Description: Orange County Emergency Services Director, Kirby Saunders, second from left, in Black Mountain, NC the week after Hurricane Helene devastated the area.
For Media Inquiries:
Kristin Prelipp, Public Information Officer
kprelipp@orangecountync.gov
(office) 919.245.2322