WAMY Community Action Raises $110,000 at Annual "Denim & Diamonds" Fundraiser

Proceeds will help send children to summer camp and provide home repairs for low-income families across the High Country

BANNER ELK, NC — June 9, 2026 — WAMY Community Action is proud to announce that its annual "Denim & Diamonds" fundraiser raised $110,000 to support the fight against poverty in Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties. The celebration took place on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at The White Crow Farm in Banner Elk, where beautiful weather and stunning mountain views set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Every dollar raised will go directly to programs that change lives. The funds will help send local children to summer camp, giving them safe, enriching experiences they might not otherwise have. Proceeds will also support critical home repairs for low-income families, allowing neighbors to age in place and live in healthier, safer homes and offer limited financial assistance to low-income families in need.

Guests got a sneak peek at WAMY’s March fundraiser, Murder Mystery Night, including a special appearance by the character Cippie Smith. They also enjoyed dinner catered by Gadabouts and Ambrosia Bakes, along with dancing hosted by DJ Karl Mohr of Mohr Fun Events. The evening also featured a spirited live auction.. The night was led by volunteer auctioneer Jesse Miller of Highstreet Insurance, whose energy and generosity made the auction a true highlight. Over the past five years, Miller's volunteer efforts have helped WAMY raise more than $500,000—an extraordinary gift of time and talent that continues to strengthen the High Country.

"This event reflects the heart of our community," said Allison Jennings, Director of Philanthropy at WAMY Community Action. "When neighbors come together, we can do remarkable things for families who need it most. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, donated, and gave their time."

WAMY extends sincere thanks to The White Crow Farm for hosting the event in such a memorable setting. The organization also thanks the generous sponsors who made the evening possible, including The Farris Foundation, The Dillon Family Foundation, Dr. Rick & Susan Geldmeier, Diane Davant Interiors, Collette-Woodruff Accounting Firm, Curtis Media, Ashemont Title, Justin & Holly Helmig, Mast General Store, Mountain Times Publications, Appalachian Custom Builders, Sunbelt Sales of the Southeast, and many more.

A great time was had by all, and the success of "Denim & Diamonds" promises to make a lasting difference for families throughout the region.

About WAMY Community Action

Founded in 1964, WAMY Community Action is a human-service nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty in Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties. The organization helps preserve and repair affordable housing, supports families with educational and employment goals, sends low-income children to summer camp, and provides access to fresh food through its community garden. Guided by its mission of "Helping People. Changing Lives.," WAMY works every day to make the High Country a better place for everyone to live, grow, and thrive. To learn more or to support its programs, visit www.wamycommunityaction.org or call 828-264-2421.

About Community Action Agencies

A Community Action Agency (CAA) is a local organization with the mission of reducing poverty through locally designed and delivered programs and services, targeted to the specific needs of the community. CAAs exist in virtually every county in the U.S., numbering more than 1,000 nationwide. Most are private nonprofits, but some are units of local government. They are state-designated but locally controlled, governed by a tripartite board that represents the low-income community, local elected officials, and private and public community stakeholders. To learn more about CCA, visit: https://communityactionpartnership.com