The GOAT Collaborative Launches with Inaugural Donation to Foothills Food Hub

The GOAT Collaborative, a Marion-based nonprofit announced its first-ever charitable donation to the WNC Community at its introductory Community Event on Friday, focused on introducing The GOAT Collaborative and its mission to local community leaders across Western North Carolina. The donation—a $2,500 check marked for Foothills Food Hub—was presented to Grace Fitzgerald, Executive Director of McDowell Local Food Advisory Council by GOAT Collaborative Founder and President Jason Caldwell. (photos included)

For The GOAT Collaborative, the gift is more than a check — it's a declaration of intent.

"This donation to the Foothills Food Hub is just the beginning," said Caldwell. "Food security, local growers, and the people of Western North Carolina are at the heart of everything we're building. We see this as the first of many investments we hope to make on behalf of this community, because when we strengthen our local community, we strengthen all of us."

The alignment between the two organizations is a natural one. Both share a commitment to local agriculture, community resilience, and the belief that access to good food is foundational to a thriving region. The Foothills Food Hub has long served as a cornerstone of McDowell County's local food system, supporting farmers, improving community access to fresh food, and fostering collaboration among growers, nonprofits, and residents.

The GOAT Collaborative invites community members, businesses, and partners to join its movement—supporting local non-profits and small businesses through its educational and community events and much more. For more information, visit https://thegoatcollab.com/

Upcoming Events:

• Ribbon Cutting: April 9, 2026 | Resilience Ranch, 8331 Sugar Hill Rd, Marion.

• Grand Opening — "Herd on the Farm": April 24, 2026 | Resilience Ranch, 8331 Sugar Hill Rd, Marion.