Partner with the path forward foundation

The Path Forward Foundation Mission

The Path Forward Foundation was established in 2025 in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which left a deep and lasting mark on the people, communities and landscapes of Western North Carolina. The creative and cultural heart of our region — the artists, small businesses, and makers that bring vitality, identity, and livelihood to Western North Carolina — continue to be impacted by the aftermath and we were called to help.

Our Mission is to foster a vibrant and resilient Western North Carolina creative community by providing resources and support to artists, makers, and small businesses, with a focus on overcoming hardship and building for the future. 

Through charitable giving and partnerships with trusted local organizations - like ReString Appalachia and the Southern Highland Craft Guild - we channel resources where they can make the greatest impact for artists, makers, and musicians, sustaining recovery, nurturing resilience, and fostering long-term renewal. 

Blue Ridge Ball Annual Fundraiser Sponsorship

The Path Forward Foundation is seeking sponsors for its first annual fundraiser:

Blue Ridge Ball

October 10, 2026

6-10 pm

on the grounds of Blue Star Gallery

867 Haywood Road

Asheville, North Carolina

Bluegrass music by Darren Nicholson Band

Catering by chef Michelle Bailey

Silent Auction of WNC Art

Sponsorship Benefits

Your sponsorship provides resources to support ongoing recovery for Western North Carolina's artists, makers, musicians and small businesses.

We accept cash donations or in-kind donations of products or services.

Bronze Sponsor — $250

  • Two tickets ($75 each) for admission to the event

  • Website recognition

  • Social media recognition

  • Newsletter shoutout

Silver Sponsor — $500

Everything in Bronze, plus:

  • Four tickets ($75 each) for admission to the event

  • A Babette Reynolds limited edition The Path Forward print valued at $125

  • 10% off any Babette Reynolds painting in Blue Star Gallery

  • Two (2) The Path Forward T shirts

  • Your Company’s Name and/or Logo noted on GROUP banner in Event Tent

Gold Sponsor — $750

Everything in Bronze, plus:

  • Six tickets ($75 each) for admission to the event

  • A framed Babette Reynolds limited edition The Path Forward print valued at $290

  • 20% off any Babette Reynolds painting in Blue Star Gallery

  • Two (2) The Path Forward T shirts and two (2) caps

  • Your Company’s Name and/or Logo noted on TOP of GROUP banner in Event Tent

  • Standalone social media feature 

Platinum Sponsor — $1,500

Everything in Bronze, plus:

  • Six tickets ($75 each) for admission to the event

  • A framed limited edition The Path Forward print valued at $290

  • 30% off any Babette Reynolds painting in Blue Star Gallery

  • Two (2) The Path ForwardT shirts and two (2) caps

  • Your Company’s Name and/or Logo noted on SOLO banner in Event Tent

  • Prominent logo on all marketing materials

  • Stage speaking time

To become a sponsor, please contact foundation Vice President David Newton at 704-323-9745 or newtondavid1959@gmail.com

Together, We Build the Path Forward