Background

Key Findings and Recommendations Report

The report shares information and recommendations for community and city-led action to improve daily connections and prepare for the next disaster. The GIS map displays data collected through the surveys, key informant interviews, and participatory mapping exercises.

VIEW THE FINAL REPORT 

EXPLORE THE MAP

The project team identified six key findings:

  • The network is real, but it's fragile.
  • The network doesn't rely on one central group. Instead, many different groups pitch in, helping to reach more places and more people.
  • The impacts of long-lasting internet and cell service loss were significant.
  • Grassroots groups are especially good at reaching people that other help often doesn't reach.
  • Many organizations weren't fully prepared to adapt during a disaster.
  • Organizational funding is a serious problem.

The research points to three primary recommendations, with specific action recommendations for community and city-led implementation included in the report. Primary recommendations indicate that network participants should work together to:

  • Invest in community-led hub facilities that provide year-round services and can respond during emergencies.
  • Set up a strong system for connecting and coordinating the different groups in the network.
  • Improve everyday public spaces and programs that help people build trust, connect and get involved in their community.
     

Past Public Engagement Events

  • June 18, 2026:  Community presentation of key findings.  At this event, hosted at Hatch Co-working, attendees provided recommendation feedback to support implementation prioritization, here is a summary of that input
  • April 18, 2026: Community Conversation: Building Strength with Resilience Hubs
  • February 27, 2026: Mapping session

Resilience Hub Mapping Public Events by Jim Wilson

 

 

What to stay up to date on the Resilience Hub Mapping Project?

Project Timeline

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July 29, 2026: Final Report and Map Published

View Report 
View Map

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June 18, 2026: Community Review Session

Hatch CoWorking Space - Event Space
45 S French Broad Ave Suite 170, Asheville, NC 28801

 

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April 2026 - Network Analysis and Initial Mapping

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April 18: Community Conversation -- Building Strength Through Resilience Hubs

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February and March 2026 - Community Engagement and Data Collection

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Resilience Hub Organizer Survey

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People & Environment Recovery Board Engagement

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Community Advisory Committee kickoff 2/27

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Individual hub leadership interviews

Contact 

We welcome your input!

Please reach out to:
Thrive Asheville: leah@thriveasheville.org
City of Asheville Sustainability Office: sustainability@ashevillenc.gov