Marshall After Hurricane Helene

Episode 44 of the Where the Dogwood Blooms podcast, hosted by Cassie Clark, titled "Marshall After Hurricane Helene" was published on August 20, 2025 and runs 85 minutes.

August 20, 2025 ·85m · Where the Dogwood Blooms

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Summary

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Woolard to talk about Marshall, North Carolina—and what happens when disasters fade from the headlines but the recovery never comes.During Hurricane Helene, Amanda and I helped coordinate real relief for families in crisis. But while neighbors pitched in and volunteers showed up, con artists slipped in too—eroding trust and leaving legitimate efforts struggling for support.We talk about scammers who fabricated tragedies to solicit donations, and folks who impersonated FEMA officials. Frauds didn’t just steal money—they sabotaged the work of people trying to help. Amanda explains how she’s mentored honest grassroots groups, challenged organizations to stay accountable, and celebrated small wins—like a local church that exposed an embezzling preacher.If you’ve ever wondered why bad actors get away with so much—or how ordinary people can make sure their help really reaches those in need—this conversation will hit home.Connect with Amanda Woolard:XSupport Savage, a WNC Relief VolunteerGive Send GoSponsors:NC/TN High Country WXNascar WXKnights of Pythias Cumberland Lodge No. 5Support Where the Dogwood Blooms: If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us via:VenmoCash AppConnect with Where the Dogwood Blooms:WebsiteInstagramXTikTokContact:[email protected]:#MarshallNC #HurricaneHelene #DisasterRelief #GrassrootsAid #NCStories #ScamAwareness #FraudPrevention #WhereTheDogwoodBlooms #CommunityRecovery

Episode Description

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Woolard to talk about Marshall, North Carolina—and what happens when disasters fade from the headlines but the recovery never comes.

During Hurricane Helene, Amanda and I helped coordinate real relief for families in crisis. But while neighbors pitched in and volunteers showed up, con artists slipped in too—eroding trust and leaving legitimate efforts struggling for support.

We talk about scammers who fabricated tragedies to solicit donations, and folks who impersonated FEMA officials. Frauds didn’t just steal money—they sabotaged the work of people trying to help. Amanda explains how she’s mentored honest grassroots groups, challenged organizations to stay accountable, and celebrated small wins—like a local church that exposed an embezzling preacher.

If you’ve ever wondered why bad actors get away with so much—or how ordinary people can make sure their help really reaches those in need—this conversation will hit home.

Connect with Amanda Woolard:

Support Savage, a WNC Relief Volunteer