It’s hard to believe that we have reached the halfway point of the summer. The weeks seem to be moving so fast, and each one brings new places, new people, and new stories that continue to shape an unforgettable summer.
This week brought me mostly to Avery County, North Carolina. While every county has offered something unique, this one felt especially meaningful because I had the opportunity to reconnect with my hometown church. They’ve been volunteering with ASP for my last five trips, so seeing familiar faces in the middle of a busy summer was a reminder that home is not always that far away. Even though I’m spending the summer traveling throughout Appalachia, having that small piece of home with me, even for a short time, was comforting.
Being around people who know me also made me realize how much I’ve grown over these past several weeks. Of course, there’s always a little pressure when people from home ask how everything is going. I wanted them to see that I’m doing well and making the most of this opportunity. But more than anything, I just felt at peace having them there. It reminded me of why I wanted to spend my summer with ASP in the first place.
One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is how much more confident I have become when talking with all kinds of people. At the beginning of the summer, starting conversations with homeowners or volunteers didn’t necessarily come as easily as I thought. Now, I find myself looking forward to those interactions. Whether it’s welcoming a new volunteer, chatting with a homeowner, or simply learning more about the communities we’re serving, those conversations have become some of the most meaningful parts of my week.
One conversation will stay with me for a long time.
I had the opportunity to sit down and interview a couple whose home was being repaired by ASP. Throughout their lives, they have spent countless hours serving and helping others in their community. Now, they were on the receiving end of that same generosity. As they shared their story, I found myself fighting back tears. The hardships they’ve endured are difficult to put into words, yet they spoke with so much hope. Rather than focusing on everything they had lost, they continually pointed back to their faith, sharing how God had continued to provide for them through the kindness of others.
What struck me the most wasn’t just what they shared during the interview but after the cameras stopped recording. They didn’t disappear back into their cooler house. They stayed outside, talking with us, laughing with the volunteers, and continuing to build relationships in this heat. It reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful moments aren’t the ones we plan to capture—they’re the ones that happen naturally after the camera is put away.
As the summer continues, I’m realizing that this experience isn’t just teaching me about home repair or storytelling. It’s teaching me how to connect with people. It’s helping me become more comfortable stepping into conversations, listening to others, and appreciating the stories that make every person different.
We’re only halfway through this summer, and I know there are still many more stories waiting to be told. If these first few weeks have taught me anything, it’s that some of the greatest lessons come from simply sitting down, listening, and allowing people to share what is in their hearts.
Your Friendly Neighbor,
Cassidy Smith
Story Gathering Intern
