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2024 ANNUAL REPORT Singing Behind the PlowBethany E. Chaney Executive Director I am pleased to introduce the Folk School’s 2024 Annual Report, which includes audited financials and a new “by the numbers” approach to our many accomplishments. It was a positive year for the Folk School, thanks to the many donors and supporters listed here, and the hard work and dedication of over 70 employees, our 15-member Board of Directors and hundreds of volunteers. In addition to serving more than 5,500 students on campus, 770 students at Olive’s Porch and more than 17,000 visitors and festivalgoers throughout the year, we celebrated several campus improvements that will strengthen our foundation as we look toward the Folk School centennial celebration in 2025. These include a $350,000 investment in stormwater mitigation features; the re-roofing, chinking, and flooring of the Log Cabin Museum; new NCDOT-installed illuminated crosswalk signage; and the dedication of the Sunshine Pavilion, a timber frame garden structure built by students in our mentorship program. These investments – and all of campus – were barely skirted by Hurricane Helene, which pummeled our western North Carolina neighbors the weekend before Fall Festival. Hundreds in our extended Folk School family – instructors, students, donors, suppliers and artists represented by the Craft Shop – lost their homes, studios, vocations or sense of security during days of heavy rains and flooding. Despite days of internet and phone disruptions, Folk School staff sprang into action to transform Fall Festival into a rally for community support. We placed signage at affected artisan booths displaying QR codes linked directly to their e-commerce sites. We collected water and basic supplies at every gate. And we raised $10,000 for Western North Carolina non- profit organizations, selling our decorative mums and dedicating 10% of Festival earnings to the cause. Ultimately the Folk School lost more than $80,000 due to cancelations and other hurricane-related reasons, but we still ended the year with a healthy gain of net operating assets of $908,938. This is a 4.65% increase in assets from 2023 and is evidence of what we hope is sustained post- pandemic recovery. We also welcomed support (including in-kind gifts) from just over 850 individual and institutional donors and sponsors, including North Carolina Humanities, Opportunity Appalachia and Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority. We gratefully accepted renewed support from Windgate Foundation, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies, North Carolina Arts Council and 3 other funders. We thank each of these – and all of you – for the role you played in 2024 supporting the Folk School’s mission, vision and values. MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR 2OUR VALUES JOY We bring originality, creativity and passion to all endeavors—we sing behind the plow. KINDNESS We treat everyone with respect, humility and warmth. STEWARDSHIP We honor the traditions and spirit of the Folk School as we guide its evolution and preserve it for the future. NON-COMPETITIVE We support and affirm each other in lifelong growth. OUR VISION A community that awakens, enlivens and enlightens the world. OUR MISSION The Folk School transforms lives, bringing people together in a nurturing environment for experiences in learning and community life that spark self-discovery. 3The Folk School continually strengthens and stewards its financial resources. The Folk School cultivates authentic relationships that honor the community’s ongoing support and investment. The Folk School attracts, nurtures and retains people who personify, support and further the school’s mission and values. A unique learning destination, the Folk School offers a wide variety of weeklong and weekend classes for those looking to strengthen their skills or try their hand at something new. Beyond the studio, music, dance and other enrichment opportunities deepen the experience. The Folk School’s physical, environmental and technological framework effectively serves and supports our students, staff, instructors, visitors and community. “True to the philosophy of the school, this course was the most affirming, non-competitive poetry course I have ever taken. I hope to come back for more.” PRIORITIES & GOALS PAT JOHNSON STUDENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMMING PEOPLE COMMUNITY FINANCE 4“The restorative nature of spending a week at John C. Campbell of no dishes, no driving, no grocery shopping, no bedtimes, no mommy taxi service to dance class back and forth–it was priceless.” ELYSHA DIAZ 2024 SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS Each year, the Folk School awards donor and grant funded scholarships to lifelong learners, young adults and craftspeople who have never attended the Folk School, and students facing financial hurdles. Last year, we awarded 77 scholarships totaling $101,770, supported by 33 donors. With a gift of $1,800, you can provide a weeklong class experience for a scholarship student, covering their tuition, housing and meals. For more information, contact giving@folkschool.org. Total Funds Awarded: $101,770 7722 Scholarship Students Mentorship Students 5WORK STUDY & HOST PROGRAM “I had incredible instructors, the Student Hosts and Work Studies were friendly and made my time there so special... I left with a beautiful chair and full heart.” ARCHIE COLLINS WOODWORKING STUDENT 2024 46 Work Studies 7 Student Hosts SPOTLIGHT ON WORK STUDIES Our Work Studies are busy bees! In 2024, we had 46 work studies who tended the garden, worked on campus improvement projects, harvested food for the Dining Hall and so much more. Work Studies also bring joy and enthusiasm to the classes they take. Fully immersed in the school, they become part of our community for 9 weeks. STUDENT HOSTS In 2024, seven Student Hosts provided a crucial link between staff, students and instructors. Our hosts helped students feel welcomed and acquainted to the Folk School experience. When Student Hosts are not in class, they are working hard for our community. 6CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS 2024 PROJECTS As we close in on our 100th year at the Folk School, the rhythm of everyday life feels similar, but with a clear vision for the future. The garden marks the seasons and provides sustenance in the Dining Hall. Classes in craft and handwork remain relevant to our place in Appalachia. Extending hospitality becomes ever more important as we position the Folk School for a sustainable future. Stormwater Mitigation Project Sunshine Pavilion Log Cabin Restoration Woodworking Accessibility Ramp Jewelry Studio Floor Enameling Studio Dining Hall Floor Campground Gate Crosswalk Renovation Dining Hall Walk-In Freezer Work Week Improvements “I love this place. I breathe the fresh air and reset my mind. When I have to leave, I'm already planning my next trip back.” JOANN HOWARD STUDENT 7SUNSHINE PAVILION SPOTLIGHT ON In February 2024, our Traditional Craft Mentorship program hosted five emerging makers in timber framing, led by John Campbell. These talented individuals built the initial framework, and many people including Garden and Work Study Manager Jason Ebinger, our Maintenance Crew and Work Studies all helped to complete our new Sunshine Pavilion! In July, we celebrated this achievement made possible by the James Edward Hudock Trust. Named in honor of James “Sunshine Jim” Hudock, this pavilion will be used for drying herbs, storing materials, hosting gardening classes and as a general gathering space. 8Next >