The Origin
On September 27, 2024, after days of heavy rain, Hurricane Helene pushed the French Broad River and Spring Creek over their banks. The flood carried mud and debris through Hot Springs. Many of our neighbors’ homes were damaged, some nearly beyond repair. Our downtown was left in ruins, and the sidewalks that Appalachian Trail hikers walk into town on were broken apart.
Neighbors went to work for each other right away. In October 2024, a group of them founded Rebuild Hot Springs Area to raise money for the rebuild and get it to the people who needed it.
The Impact
Donors have given nearly $2 million. The $1,000,000 Milestone report shows how the first million was spent, and our Initiatives page shows what comes next.
The Goal
RHSA began as a response to Helene. Most of that work is done, and we are finishing the last few flood repairs. Now we fund projects that open new opportunities for Hot Springs, and we help the town get ready for the next emergency. We are talking with emergency officials about what they need, and in spring 2027 we plan to repair and modernize the downtown public parking lot. We put every gift where it does the most for Hot Springs.
Meet our team
Run by volunteers.
The Board of Directors
TJ PhillipsPresident
Mary Helen AdamsonVice President
Benjamin RayTreasurer
Mary DixonSecretary
Chris DonochodDirector
Jodie OrozcoDirector
Kevin ReeseDirectorEx Officio Seat
The Ex Officio seat on the RHSA Board is reserved for the elected Mayor of Hot Springs. In the mayor’s absence, an elected Alderman may be designated to serve in their place. The seat gives the town a voice on our board and keeps RHSA and the town informed as we plan work together.
Mayor Abby NortonEx OfficioHelp build what comes next.
Your gift is tax-deductible, and it goes to work here in Hot Springs.