ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The Community Reparations Commission held a retreat to market its first major gathering post-Helene on March 22.
During the meeting, the group discussed their plans for addressing basic needs and advancing their cause. Topics of conversation included education, housing, and criminal justice.
Vodette Mayes, the Vice Chair of the commission, shared her hopes for what the group aims to communicate during these challenging times in the country.
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“I want people to know that we are working,” Mayes said. “It’s a difficult task — a lot of people did not understand that we have to go along with what the city says and how we have to operate with the city and the county, as a matter of fact, and that we always have to stay on a positive focus on what we’re going to do for people.”
Mayes also encouraged community members to “not give up hope” as the organization continues its efforts toward meaningful change.