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Learn more about our 2026 Annual Celebration

Learn more about our 2026 Annual Celebration

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The RSAA building that we are renovating was built in 1921, so when carpet was removed from a back staircase to reveal 100-year-old wood stairs, the hope was that they could be restored to their former glory. The task was a bit daunting with the thick layer of glue on the 14 steps and 3 landings.

As many seasoned project leaders can testify, so often God seems to bring just the right weekly volunteer for a specific task that needs to get done.  That person this week was Hans Martin who spent an entire day removing the glue, another day sanding all of the steps, and yet another day staining and applying the 1st coat of polyurethane. A beautiful transformation and restoration of the steps which reminds us of our purpose for being here in West Asheville and its restoration.

While we hoped for a temporary occupancy permit, it was withheld due to major electrical issues in the building, requiring an acceptable plan for remediation before occupancy can be granted. Despite this setback, progress continues on other tasks, including painting, flooring installation, kitchen completion, bed assembly, and cove base application.

In addition to the RSAA building, a crew of four volunteers assisted the Hope in the Valley organization with rebuilding a home in Beacon Village, Swannanoa. The 100-year-old homes in this community were well-built, with foundations, outer walls, and roofs remaining intact. The crew added structural beams for the rough framing inspection.

This week, the MDS site at RSAA also became a shared home base for the North Carolina Bridges project, with both projects utilizing the space for lodging, meals, and office functions. The team also bid farewell to crew leader Bob Tingle, who returned home to California.

The immediate next step involves developing and submitting the electrical plan, hoping it will pave the way for housing volunteers in the building.

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