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ASHEVILLE, N.C. March 07, 2025 — As rebuilding efforts continue across western North Carolina in communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, college students are forgoing traditional spring break trips to bring hope and help to those who need it most.
In collaboration with Cru Campus Ministry and humanitarian organization Unto, more than 150 volunteers from across the country—as far away as New Mexico and Massachusetts—will dedicate a week in Asheville, North Carolina, to supercharge recovery efforts.
"After watching what some of these families have gone through, I realized that if there was a need and I could help, I'd rather share God's love with those struggling than spend my spring break living for myself,” said Katherine Borton, who is traveling from Peoria, Illinois with a team from Bradley University.
Six months ago, Helene made landfall and caused the most inland flooding since 1972. In North Carolina alone, 104 people died from its damage. Some estimates put the economic impact of the storm, including property damage, at $200 billion, and repairs to communities, including infrastructure, could take multiple years to complete. Students will be helping with drywall, subflooring, painting and insulation, along with outdoor cleanup and landscaping.
“In addition to helping to rebuild these communities, Cru students are also spreading the hope and good news of the Gospel message,” said Shannon Compere, executive director of Cru’s Campus Ministry. “Western North Carolina suffered significant damage during Helene, and we are proud of these students for choosing to give of their time to express God’s love.”
Each spring break, Cru provides opportunities for students to serve in areas of the world needing help and hope. From disaster relief efforts to providing water filters to villages that do not have access to clean drinking water, Cru students have collectively dedicated hundreds of thousands of hours they could spend on vacation to instead make a difference in the lives of others.
Photos, video and interviews with students and project organizers are available. For on-site coverage at an active recovery location, please contact Dan Allan at 314.518.1003.
About Cru and Unto:
Cru is a Christian evangelism and discipleship ministry that started on the UCLA’s campus in 1951. Since then, Cru has become one of the largest Christian organizations in the world, with more than 16,000 team members serving in 190 countries.
Unto, the humanitarian ministry of Cru, has been providing relief and hope to individuals in need for more than 30 years. Through strategic global partnerships and the dedication of volunteers, Unto offers vital assistance in more than 75 countries. To learn more, visit unto.com/humanitarian or follow Unto on social media to stay up to date with mission initiatives, announcements and more.
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