Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy 

Proceeds from our race go towards the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy, a WNC-based non-profit doing amazing land conservation work in the Southern Appalachians, including in Asheville. Consider donating directly to their cause here.

SAHC's Mission:

The mission of the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is to conserve the unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for all people to enjoy outdoor recreation in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, enduring for future generations. We achieve this through long-term conservation relationships with private landowners and public agencies and owning and managing land. We are committed to creating and supporting equitable, healthy and thriving communities for everyone in our region. Since 1974, over 90,000 acres of unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, farmland, scenic beauty, and places for people to enjoy outdoor recreation have been permanently protected in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee thanks to the efforts of the SAHC. Learn more by visiting their website here. 

Regarding recovery efforts post Hurricane Helene: "In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, SAHC is continuing our vital conservation mission. We’re grappling with the impacts on land stewardship, completing critical new land and conservation easement acquisitions, and hosting outdoor experiences to promote healing. Helene’s impact underscores the crucial role of land conservation in building resilience to climate change. Your donations make  a significant impact for recovery efforts as well as ongoing conservation initiatives." - SAHC