Finances may not be the most exciting topic, but they are among the most important. For any nonprofit, transparency and responsibility are essential, not just with the IRS but with supporters, volunteers, and the public. Grounded Boots Relief continues to prioritize sound financial management as the organization grows, ensuring every dollar supports the mission of readiness and response.

 

To date, all funding received has gone directly toward operations, equipment, and response capabilities. The executive team remains entirely volunteer, dedicating countless hours to maintaining and advancing the organization. As Grounded Boots Relief continues to expand, payroll will eventually become part of sustainability. Supporting those who lead the mission is vital for long-term success, allowing them to continue the work without sacrificing personal stability.

Through classes with WNC Pathways, the organization is developing a deeper understanding of nonprofit financial practices and the importance of expert oversight. This is why Grounded Boots Relief is now actively seeking to recruit a volunteer accountant to help guide and refine its financial systems.

 

For many, numbers may not inspire excitement, but they represent trust, credibility, and growth. Like any successful nonprofit, Grounded Boots Relief recognizes that investing in people and infrastructure is essential to lasting impact. Currently operated from a private residence, the organization is preparing for the next step by transitioning into a dedicated facility that will better support its expanding operations and volunteers.

 

Behind every deployment, every piece of equipment, and every act of service, there is structure, accountability, and purpose. Grounded Boots Relief is building not only readiness in the field but stability at its foundation.

This week, Grounded Boots Relief worked alongside Nechama to help clear properties that still have fallen trees. The effort was supported by Laura Block from our advisory panel, who helped coordinate the connection between both organizations. Laura volunteers with each group and played an important role in making this collaboration possible.

 

While awaiting our equipment trailer, the team focused on splitting logs. The work provided both cleanup and a practical outcome. As cooler weather arrives, those split logs can become valuable firewood, offering heat, comfort, and stability for families who need it.

 

Pine is one of the most common woods available, and its resin content allows it to ignite easily. It can be useful for starting fires and providing quick warmth in outdoor settings. However, pine produces heavy smoke, sparks, and creosote, a tar-like substance that can accumulate in chimneys and other enclosed areas. For this reason, pine should not be used as fuel indoors. In enclosed spaces, it increases the risk of creosote buildup and potential fire hazards.

 

In open-air settings such as outdoor fire pits, seasoned pine can be used safely with care and proper airflow. It burns quickly and works well when mixed with hardwoods like oak or hickory for a steadier fire. Each log split and stacked this week represents preparation for the cold months ahead and a resource that can bring warmth to those who need it most.

 

Grounded Boots Relief continues to focus on meaningful, steady work that strengthens both community and readiness.

  
More information about pine fire Capofireside.com

The average nonprofit loses $75,000 to fraud, but some losses reach $639,000 per case. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, nonprofits make up 9% of all global fraud cases. With smaller teams and fewer internal controls, many organizations are left vulnerable to theft and mismanagement. Vigilance and transparency are essential.
Source: ncnonprofits.org

(All events pending Blue Skies)
  Dark Forest Halloween Gala: October 25th
NCEMA: October 28-29
Gear Up & Game On: November 8th    

Have you felt this weather lately? Finally, the season where it’s socially acceptable to wear a hoodie every day and call it “preparing for fall.” We have actually talked about making Grounded Boots Relief hoodies as a fundraiser. We already have the Cricut, the vinyl, and the enthusiasm. All we need are the hoodies and the people willing to press them. Personally, I’m a no-zipper kind of guy. But I know that’s a divisive topic among otherwise reasonable adults. Would you buy a Grounded Boots Relief hoodie?

 

Now, onto something a little more productive. We are working on a YouTube series of training videos that will cover everything from “how to actually use a winch” to “what belongs in a go bag” to “how to survive putting on snow chains without losing your religion.” Our Emergency Management guy (the wet blanket who wields the red tape... whom we love) is guiding the process, and every video will come with a healthy dose of disclaimers.

 

If all goes well, this series will become a mix of education, entertainment, and occasional chaos. Basically, the internet in flannel. If you have suggestions for topics, send them our way at info@groundedbootsrelief.org. And if you just want to watch us learn new skills the hard way, that works too.

 

Until next time, stay warm, stay grounded, and may your coffee be as strong as your sense of purpose.