My name is Steve Sedmak and I am the founder of Shope Creek Wilderness. First, let me thank you for your interest. If the following information resonates with you, we invite your participation as we recover from Hurricane Helene and move forward.

The Shope Creek Wilderness 501c3 was formed in September of 2019 with the intention of offering nature immersion, forest bathing and all the benefits of a renewed relationship with nature. While our 131 acres are available to all, our primary focus has been children and moving beyond “Nature Deficit Disorder”. To this point, we have been self-funded and over the past 12 months have worked with over 300 children through our school, on site home schooling, our therapeutic center and the nature camps we support through the Forest Floor program.

Hurricane Helene has left us with limited access, destroyed trails and paths, classrooms and learning centers that need inspection and clean up, and over 600 fallen trees. We are currently closed and unable to re-open until the land is made safe again.

Spending time in nature has proven to be one of the best ways to overcome the trauma that the Hurricane has introduced. Getting the children, and others, back on the land, back to school and interacting with their friend, teachers, counselors and nature itself is our highest priority.

If you, or someone you know, is able to assist, we welcome your tax free donation. Thank you again for your interest.