Hurricane Recovery

Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic damage to the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly campus on Friday, September 27, 2024.

2024 Focus

Due to the extensive damage throughout the property, as well as devastation in the surrounding local area, all conferences and retreats were postponed and campus remained closed while YMCA Blue Ridge staff and volunteers began stabilization and recovery efforts.

2025 Focus

YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly reopened at 40% capacity in June 2025. It was incredible to welcome so many people home to the Mountain! However, three main buildings in the campus core remained closed – Eureka Hall, Abbott Hall and Thrailkill Auditorium.

2026 Spring Focus

YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly is thrilled to continue recovery efforts with our sights set on the heart of campus – Abbott Hall, Thrailkill Auditorium in Heaton Hall, and Eureka Hall. The vital work done in these historic buildings supports our mission of developing leaders, strengthening families, and building community. These recovery efforts will ensure we can increase summer housing options with newly restored and functional spaces.

Due to damage from Hurricane Helene and reduced capacity in 2025, over 4,000 people were left at home during summer conferences. It is our goal to ensure each of these people, many of which are teenagers, will be welcomed back to the Mountain.