West Asheville, NC (SYP) – July 2 – 11, 2026

Leadership volunteers arrived from CA, AZ, NY, and VA on Thursday, July  2.  Friday and Saturday were spent cleaning, organizing, putting in an air conditioner, and retrieving necessary items from the RSAA building in West Asheville.  On Sunday we were joined by a couple from TX and a weekly volunteer group of 15 from PA.  One of the couples brought their eight- and five-year-old children, who assisted with jobs several mornings.  They worked very hard those mornings and were recognized with “golden hammer” awards for their efforts.

On Monday, everyone worked at the former Camping World site, now the headquarters for Baptists on Mission (BOM).  Bunk beds were assembled and mattresses were put in place.  Materials were moved into the warehouse.  On Tuesday one of the three crews finished the bunk beds stacked and wrapped chairs.

Another crew finished exterior stair railings, installed insulation and support hinges under the house as well as installing a new door lock.  Two crews spent the rest of the week at the Lake James house, drywall work, painting and cleaning paint from the floor.  Several volunteers used tools and saws that they had not worked with before, and that experience was a highlight for them.  From what I hear, it’s a wonder that any work was accomplished because the setting was so beautiful on a peaceful lakeshore.  However, they were able to enjoy the view while eating lunch and taking breaks.

At Mr. Lee’s house the volunteers cleaned, as well as installed, mudded and sanded drywall.  They also installed cabinets.  At another location the crew installed drywall, converting and repairing a window, and flooring.

At a Black Mountain worksite, a crew worked the rest of the week in a former nursing home, preparing it for accommodations for 50 or more volunteers.   Building materials were moved so that flooring could be laid.  The girls hoisted an old refrigerator into a dumpster—quite a feat!  Door casings were installed and caulked.

Our construction supervisor from PA arrived Wednesday evening.  In the coming week, weather permitting, he will be digging and pouring footers and laying block for a new build.  Work will continue at the lake house and on the Black Mountain project.

All in all, it was a productive week with all the volunteers working together.

Edith, Office Manager for all of us at West Asheville SYP,

               Rex, Bruce and Kathy, Dave, David and Frances, Patrice, Sue, and Bob