GBX Group Pledges $100,000 in Startup Funding to Launch ‘WNC Tip It Forward’ Relief Campaign for Asheville’s Culinary and Creative Workers

November 26, 2024

CLEVELAND, OH – GBX Group has pledged $100,000 in startup funding for the newly launched ‘WNC Tip It Forward’, an initiative dedicated to providing relief grants to Western North Carolina’s food service and creative workers affected by Hurricane Helene. This major contribution by GBX Group aims to build a solid foundation for recovery efforts, inspiring further support from donors large and small. The campaign is launched in partnership with Asheville Independent Restaurants (AIR) and ArtsAVL, seeking to provide financial assistance for workers in these culinary and creative sectors.

“Over the years, GBX has invested in and worked to preserve 19 historic buildings across Asheville, and we currently manage a portfolio of bed & breakfasts, office, retail and residential properties across the city,” said Drew Sparacia, CEO of GBX Group. “By providing startup funding for the ‘WNC Tip It Forward’ campaign, we hope to encourage others to join us in giving back to those who make Asheville’s arts and culinary scene so special. The resilience of Western North Carolina is inspiring, and we are deeply committed to supporting the community’s recovery through this initiative.”

“Artists and culinary workers are what make Asheville such a vibrant community,” said Katie Cornell, Executive Director of ArtsAVL. “We’re calling on you to help us keep Western North Carolina creative by offering support for these individuals, who are suffering from lost income, property damage and canceled events.”

‘WNC Tip It Forward’ was also one of the donation recipients via the SOULSHINE Concert Fund, a benefit concert hosted Sunday, November 24 at Madison Square Garden to aid relief and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina, featuring Dave Matthews Band and more musical acts.

The ‘WNC Tip It Forward’ campaign is now open to all donors who want to make a difference. Contributions can be made online at www.wnctip.org. Tax-deductible donations will be distributed through ArtsAVL to eligible restaurant and arts workers in need.

“GBX’s contribution has created the foundation we need to get this campaign off the ground,” said Meghan Rogers, Executive Director of AIR. “Now, we’re calling on friends, family and supporters locally and globally to join us in aiding the culinary and creative backbone of our region.”

By spreading the word and making a donation, individuals can play a crucial part in ensuring Western North Carolina’s restaurant and arts workers receive the assistance they need.

About GBX Group LLC

GBX Group LLC specializes in acquiring, preserving, and operating historic real estate across urban markets. By working alongside investors, GBX focuses on restoring properties to foster community revitalization and economic growth. As of January 2024, GBX has been involved in 202 real estate projects across 24 states. For more information, visit gbxgroup.com.

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Contact: Kelsey Sparacia

Email: kelseysparacia@gbxgroup.com