The Phoenix Asheville Reopens After Hurricane Helene Recovery, Commits to Community Support
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – The Phoenix Asheville, a renowned luxury retreat center dedicated to trauma recovery and personal growth, officially reopened its doors on Wednesday, August 6th, following extensive renovations necessitated by the devastating flooding from Hurricane Helene in August 2023. The reopening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating resilience and a renewed commitment to serving the Western North Carolina community.
Located on 40 acres of land along the French Broad River in Asheville, The Phoenix Asheville provides specialized retreats focused on helping individuals navigate loss, trauma, and build pathways toward a hopeful future. Founder and CEO Marsha Ralls-Hershman emphasized the significance of the reopening, stating, “It was a lot of work to be able to rebuild. There were trees down all over the property. As I mentioned, we lost a building by the river and the roads.But what it means is I get to serve the community again.”
Hurricane Helene, which impacted the region last year, caused significant damage to the retreat center, including the complete loss of a riverside building and ample road damage. The ensuing months were dedicated to rebuilding and restoring the property to its former state, ensuring a safe and supportive surroundings for guests.
Beyond simply restoring operations, The phoenix Asheville is now dedicating a portion of the proceeds from all retreats to support local recovery efforts within the Asheville area. This initiative underscores the center’s commitment to giving back to the community that has supported it. The center also plans to expand its outreach through increased community activities and by welcoming international guests, aiming to boost tourism in the region.
The phoenix Asheville’s reopening comes at a time of increased awareness surrounding mental health and trauma recovery. According to the North Carolina department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), a new pilot program launched this month aims to improve youth psychiatric care across the state, addressing a critical need for specialized mental health services. This aligns with The Phoenix Asheville’s mission of providing a safe space for healing and growth.
The retreat center is currently accepting reservations for its fourth season. more facts about The Phoenix Asheville, its programs, and its commitment to community support can be found at https://thephoenixasheville.com/.