In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on western North Carolina last September, student organizations at UNC School of Law demonstrated swift and unified action to support affected communities. The Black Law Students Association, Asian American Law Students Association, Hispanic/Latino Law Students Association, and OutLaw collaborated on an extensive supply drive in partnership with the Durham Rescue Mission.
“As they so often do, our students and student organizations embodied leadership and public service,” says David R. Wright, assistant dean for student development. “The collaborative effort of these student organizations exemplifies the outstanding character and spirit of our Carolina Law community.”
The initiative was spearheaded by Aleah Wordsworth, second-year law student and president of the Black Law Student Association and began as an immediate response to the crisis. “After seeing the devastation in Western North Carolina, I was heartbroken,” said Wordsworth. “With so many people suffering, I knew that a collaborative effort between our organizations would create a powerful impact in addressing the needs of those affected by Hurricane Helene.”
The supply drive, which began in early October 2024, successfully collected essential items, including first-aid supplies, nonperishable foods, personal hygiene items, and cleaning supplies. Collection points were established throughout the School’s building, creating an accessible way for the Carolina Law community to contribute.
“Service and community have always been a focal point of the Carolina Way,” said Joshua Jacobs, a third-year law student and president of the Student Bar Association. “Our students continue to show their commitment to serving and helping communities in need.”
For Hispanic/Latino Law Students Association co-presidents Lynne Imamura and Sabrina Callahan, both second-year law students, the relief effort aligned perfectly with their organization’s mission. “We had a vision this year to uplift, protect and support our fellow Latines in the state,” Imamura explained. “Many of our members are from Western North Carolina, and we want to show up for them. This drive is about supporting communities during a time of need, which connects all of our organizations.”
Carolina Law’s commitment to hurricane relief continues to evolve with a pro bono trip planned for this year’s spring break, where law students will travel to affected areas to provide legal assistance to communities still recovering from the hurricane’s impact.
For those interested in supporting ongoing relief efforts, the Kathrine R. Everett Law Library maintains an updated collection of resources for those seeking information on disaster relief efforts.
“The initial supply drive was just the beginning of our students’ commitment to supporting the recovery efforts,” said Wright. “Our community continues to find new ways to help our neighbors in Western North Carolina rebuild.”
For more information about ongoing relief initiatives or the upcoming pro bono trip, contact David Wright or visit the participating student organizations’ information channels.
