RALEIGH, N.C. – N.C. State football player Davin Vann showcased his leadership not just on the field but off it as well, as he spearheaded a donation drive for victims of Hurricane Helene. Instead of preparing for the upcoming game against Wake Forest, Vann was diligently maneuvering through boxes of essential supplies in the Wolfpack’s indoor practice facility.
The donation initiative has seen immense success, prompting it to extend throughout the week. “I honestly hoped we could get enough donations to help a little bit,” Vann said. “It turned out to be way more than I expected.”
Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact resulted in over 200 fatalities and significant destruction across the Carolinas, Georgia, and Tennessee. Communities affected by flooding have been left without electricity, water, and cellular service, driving a wave of relief efforts from both college and professional sports teams.
In Charlotte, major contributions have flooded in, with the owner of the NFL’s Carolina Panthers committing $3 million to the relief efforts through his foundation. Additionally, both the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets and the NASCAR team owned by a local sports legend have each pledged $1 million to support recovery efforts.
The Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord has been actively involved in relief efforts, extending their donation drive due to an outpouring of community support. Nearby at North Wilkesboro Speedway, trucks filled with supplies have arrived to assist those in need. Bristol Motor Speedway in eastern Tennessee has also stepped up, serving as a regional disaster relief center.
“Our communities are hurting, and we are ready to assist in any way we can,” stated a representative from Bristol Motor Speedway.
Meanwhile, Eastern Tennessee State University has mobilized to gather donations, sending supplies to a local shelter and a church in Erwin. Fans attending the Buccaneers’ upcoming football game have been encouraged to bring additional donations.
In Georgia, Augusta National, home of the Masters golf tournament, announced a joint $5 million donation to assist the greater Augusta area in recovery efforts.
Within North Carolina, the indoor practice facility shared with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes has transformed into a hub for collecting donations. As Vann helped coordinate efforts into Wednesday evening, the Hurricanes raised approximately $280,000 during a recent fundraiser tied to a preseason game.
Vann’s mother, who owns a local moving company, initiated the drive shortly after the storm passed with efforts focused on supporting the Durham Rescue Mission’s larger relief efforts. With community volunteers and team staff participating, the donation drive has already filled six trucks with essential supplies.
Vann expressed his gratitude for the community’s support: “It’s very heartwarming to see that people are willing to give their time and resources to help those in western North Carolina, even if they’ve never met them.”
