Sharing Rising Above Helene: A Journey Through Resilience and Recovery 

We’ve had the honor of sharing Rising Above Helene with communities across North Carolina and beyond, and each screening has been a powerful reminder of resilience, recovery, and the strength of those communities. 

From a private IMAX screening for state legislators and emergency management leaders in Wake County, to community-centered events in Ashe, Buncombe, Haywood, and Rutherford Counties, and even an out of state screening in Washington DC, every gathering has been deeply meaningful. 

Wake County – Private IMAX Screening for State Leaders 

 In Wake County, we brought together decision-makers shaping the future of emergency response and preparedness at the state level. The private IMAX screening was an opportunity to share the stories captured over nine months of filming across Western North Carolina, ensuring those voices remain front and center in policy discussions. 

Ashe County – Lansing Day Celebration 

 In Ashe County, the screening was part of Lansing Day, a celebration of the town’s enduring spirit. During filming, Lansing often appeared quiet and desolate as residents worked tirelessly to rebuild. But on this day, the town was alive with celebration, filled with people proud to honor their community’s comeback. After the screening event in a century old school building, community members engaged in a meaningful discussion of what recovery has looked like over the year that had passed.  

Rutherford County – Honoring First Responders 

In Rutherford County, the screening brought together first responders and community leaders who stood strong in the face of adversity. Emotional stories were shared as attendees reflected on the past year’s challenges and triumphs, honoring the courage and commitment that carried the community through. 

Haywood County – Ending a week of Remembrance  

On October 2, over 100 community members gathered at Haywood Community College for a screening that concluded a week of reflection marking one year since Hurricane Helene struck the area. The event offered a space for remembrance, healing, and hope as residents looked back on their journey of recovery. 

Buncombe County – A Community Discussion on Recovery  

Buncombe County hosted a screening at the East Asheville Library on October 8, followed by a panel discussion that invited community members to engage in open dialogue about ongoing recovery efforts. Nearly one hundred community members were there to engage in a conversation that highlighted the challenges still facing the region and the importance of continued collaboration. 

Washington, D.C. – A National Audience Working on Reform 

Most recently on October 27, Rising Above Helene was screened at the NACo Conference Center in Washington, D.C. Attendees included NACo’s Disaster Reform Task Force, Representative Debra Ross of North Carolina, and several North Carolina County Commissioners. The film was well received and sparked vital conversations around FEMA reform and strategies to accelerate recovery efforts. 

Each event gave space for reflection on the impact of Hurricane Helene, the year of recovery that followed, and the people who rose above the storm to rebuild and reconnect. We’re grateful to every person who attended, shared their story, and helped make these screenings a moment of healing and hope.