RAFT FOR AMERICA tour kicks off in Hot Springs on May 28

MountainTrue river clean up on French Broad Section 8 on May 29.

Reuniting America by Fostering Trust (RAFT), a national initiative of Team Democracy, will launch its 2025 series of inspiring whitewater events in Hot Springs, North Carolina, which was devastated by Hurricane Helene in September of 2024.

RAFT, known for its powerful message that “we’re all in the same boat together,” is designed to bring Americans together across diverse lines of politics, race, faith, and geography — to build trust and rediscover our shared humanity. Through exhilarating whitewater adventures, participants are paired with people from outside their bubble, for meaningful dialogue and collaboration in the face of real (and metaphorical) rapids.

“I’m thrilled that we’re starting this year’s tour on FB9,” says Chris Newlon, Co-founder of Team Democracy and CCC member. “Last year’s trips down rivers like the Nantahala and Ocoee brought people together across the country—but this year’s launch in Hot Springs is especially meaningful. It’s a chance to honor the courage and compassion that emerged after Hurricane Helene, when neighbors helped each other rebuild despite their differences. And it’s a reminder that these mountain communities, though still healing, are filled with life, beauty, and a welcoming spirit that’s ready to embrace summer visitors.”

The RAFT for America trip on the French Broad is done in collaboration with Rebuild Hot Springs, the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), NC Outdoor Recreation Coalition, America Outdoors Association, MountainTrue, and Big Pillow Brewing.

The trip will leave/return to Big Pillow Brewing 25 Andrews Ave N, Hot Springs, NC and be catered by a local Hot Springs restaurant, Vaste Riviere Outpost.

To apply to participate (at no cost), visit: https://www.raftforamerica.org/join-us-on-the-river

The next day after the RAFT for America event, MountainTrue, a conservation group that has spearheaded clean-ups of French Broad and other affected rivers, will lead a trip down the Section 8 of the French Broad.  This will concentrate on cleaning debris from the river.  Much of the focus until now has been FB9, the paddler’s favorite section, yet FB8 is beautiful and could use your love.

For more information on the May 29th Mountain True clean-up group on Section 8, please contact Chris Newlon at 919-656-7537 or chris.newlon@teamdemocracy.org

To learn more about what RAFT is doing, check out these videos and articles from last year’s campaign.

CBS Evening News North Carolina “North Carolina rafting trip seeks to bridge divides.” 

PBS Utah  “Would you want to be stuck on a raft all day talking politics with strangers who disagree with you?”

Carolina Paddler “Rafting Up for America”

Mountain True