Community is everything and taking care of each other is so important - but there’s a right and wrong way to approach it.
Didn’t realize how long of a rant I went on but there’s was lots to updates to share about what’s happening in WNC and TN - both good and bad - it’s not a time for sightseeing - and you don’t have the purest intention just don’t go - not to say they don’t need supplies or volunteers to help but there’s a lot of harm being done - between people going down there turning communities out of their own churches to set up their mission trip headquarters and party in the parking lots - using valuable resources. Also, the amount of misinformation is appalling but what’s new. We can only do what we can.
As Hurricane Milton closes in on the Gulf Coast of Florida - we’re all afraid of outsiders getting distracted and losing interest in helping Southern Appalachia - which tends to be forgotten often as it is. So please help us continue to raise awareness, support relief efforts much like the one I’m organizing - Art for Appalachia - that is being created to support long term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Right now I’m seeking…
🎨Artists that would like to donate artwork. All mediums are welcome (except AI - digital is fine an believe me - I will KNOW!!! Embrace the analog way of doing things if possible and highlight traditional art forms of Appalachia as much as possible) looking for work inspired by the Appalachias and culture - in addtion to creating a sense of community and hope.
👷Volunteers with experience in art nonprofits, gallery, exhibition, and art auction experience as well as marketing and web management.
🤝Sponsors to help make sure opperating costs are at minimum so we can make sure we get the as much of the proceeds as possible to those who need it - this could be monitary - but could also be time and materials - so if you’re a sticker maker, fine arts print company, tshirt printer, or work with other merch and would like to help - please reach out.
To keep everything streamed lined please use the official donation submission form or the volunteer/sponsor form for anything important - I dont mind answering questions directly but I will not be able to keep track of random emails, dms, texts, etc - so I appreciate your patience as this grows - things are moving rapidly as is and I’m currently working on this by myself.
www.laurengkoch.com/supportthemission/art-for-appalachia
In addition to art donations - please consider dropping off personal hygiene and baby supplies, non perishable food, propane and other food sources, lighters, cold weather gear, PPE, etc.
For ongoing updates from my contacts on the ground in WNC and TN follow me on my main FB Page - Lauren G. Koch to stay updated - yes there are fake accounts out there but this is the direct link
lgkochArt?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Also - give the IG Art for Appalachia page a follow too for updates and to help me spread the word of this long term fundraising intiative!
art_for_appalachia?igsh=MTN3NHZkbGFmNWRxMw==
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