More than 275 employees from Bank of America have generously volunteered their time to help North Carolina neighbors in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. These employee volunteer groups have come to Asheville and the surrounding areas to help the American Red Cross conduct damage assessments for over 5,000 homes impacted by the destructive hurricane.

“Hurricane Helene severely impacted Western North Carolina leaving communities devastated and residents in need,” shared Bank of America Asheville President David Dowd. “We are grateful to the American Red Cross for providing much needed support including shelter, food, financial assistance and relief supplies. Most recently, more than 275 of our NC teammates have joined forces to assist the American Red Cross’ disaster workers with boots on the ground in the region.”

Bank of America is dedicated to providing opportunities for employees to volunteer. Tony Silva shared his motivation to volunteer, saying “I have friends here in Asheville and wanted to do something hands-on to help.”

Disaster assessment volunteers perform an important role in the recovery process following a massive, destructive event like Hurricane Helene. Teams of Red Cross and Bank of America volunteers have spent hours each day walking through various neighborhoods, including remote and hard to reach locations, to survey damage to houses. Using a camera and an app, the volunteers can upload photos and track specific locations. This data is critical to helping the Red Cross determine the extent of the damage, where the greatest need exists, and connect communities with recovery resources.

Bank of America has been a member of the American Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program, donating $1 million annually to support disaster relief, for over 20 years. And most recently, inspired by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, they also contributed an additional $2 million for disaster relief.  In additional to their financial commitment and volunteer support, Bank of America hosts Red Cross blood drives, provides employee giving and matching opportunities and has donated first aid kits.