By Olivia Hankey

Welcome to Echoes from the Community! This column shares insights from real stories told by residents across Transylvania County, collected through SparkPoint, a local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community connections and well-being. These stories are gathered, analyzed, and shared to reveal the values, concerns, and hopes that shape our collective experience as a county.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, powerful emotions surfaced during recent story-sharing sessions. Despite the loss and hardship of the storm, many residents described feeling more connected than ever. “Together we can get through anything,” one person said. Another added, “Never lose hope. This region is full of heroes and helpers.” Again and again, gratitude flowed toward first responders and firefighters, with one community member reflecting, “Firefighters do so much more than fight fires.”

Across these voices, one common need emerged: more opportunities to connect with people who are different from ourselves. It’s a quiet but powerful call for understanding, curiosity, and community across the lines that often divide us. One resident shared, “When your neighbor needed help, you helped. No one asked what political party you were in or what church you went to.” These reflections remind us that connection itself is a form of resilience.

Echoes from the Community will continue to share stories like these, highlighting what residents are saying, why it matters, and how these insights are guiding efforts to build a more connected and compassionate Transylvania County. Over the next several weeks, this column will explore emerging themes and community perspectives gathered through SparkPoint’s ongoing story collection process.

If this kind of collaborative work appeals to you, SparkPoint is seeking community members to be trained to help deconstruct and analyze stories – an exciting and rewarding experience!

For more information, contact maggie@yoursparkpoint.org.