Press Release: Volunteers Rebuild Storm-Damaged Asheville Boutique

Asheville, NC – August 6, 2025 – Heart on Main Street is heading to Asheville for its first-ever Independent Rebuild Project, a hands-on initiative to support independent retailers devastated by natural disasters. From August 12–14, more than 15 volunteers will come together to help Dogwood Darlings, a locally owned children’s boutique, repair and reopen its storefront at 6 All Souls Crescent, Asheville, NC 28803. 

Through generous support from sponsors including Lowe’s, MudPie, London Bridge, and GooseWaddle, the project has already raised more than $5,000 toward construction, repairs, and inventory replacement. Volunteers will spend three days painting, patching, landscaping, and preparing the store to welcome customers once again. 

“We started the Independent Rebuild Project because when disaster strikes, small businesses are often left behind,” said Patrick Keiser, Executive Director of Heart on Main Street. “Dogwood Darlings is more than just a retail store — it's part of the fabric of its community. Our goal is to help them reopen stronger, and show other retailers across the country that they're not alone.” 

While in Asheville, Heart on Main Street will also distribute $5,000 donations to Diamond Brand Outdoors and SecondGear, two other local businesses impacted by recent storms. 

Heart on Main Street is a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing independent retail by providing grants, education, and mentorship. The Independent Rebuild Project is part of its growing disaster relief programming. 

To support the project or make a donation, visit: https://givebutter.com/leg9L6 

Media Contact: Mellissa Hopkins Director of Marketing & Operations Heart on Main Street Mellissa.hopkins@heartonmainstreet.org