NORA seeks community support for Nolichucky documentary

The Nolichucky River's comeback story is headed for the big screen, and community members are being asked to help finish the film that captures it.A year after Tropical Storm Helene tore through the region, the Nolichucky Outdoor Recreation Association recently announced a campaign to raise $25,000 in matching funds to complete "The Noli Film Project," a documentary chronicling the river valley's recovery.The funds will cover final editing, sound, lighting and festival submissions, including an entry in the National Paddling Film Festival, according to a press release from the group."A year after Hurricane Helene changed everything, the Nolichucky community continues to show what resilience looks like," Trey Moore, chairman of NORA, said in the release. "Together, we've cleaned miles upon miles of river frontage, restored river access, helped guides and outfitters get back to work, and begun rebuilding a stronger, more connected outdoor community. Now, the next chapter of our story is being told."Produced by 2nd Act Films, the documentary has been following the economic and environmental recovery along the Nolichucky — spotlighting residents, outfitters and river advocates working to rebuild after the storm. An anonymous donor has already pledged to match contributions, and filmmakers are scheduled to return this fall for another round of interviews to capture how far the region has come, according to the release.NORA is urging partners, supporters and residents to donate or share the campaign over the next five weeks. All contributions are tax-deductible and will be matched dollar-for-dollar."This film is more than a documentary — it's a record of what our community can do when we stand together," Moore said in the release. "Your support ensures that our story of resilience, recovery, and hope reaches audiences far beyond the Nolichucky Gorge."The trailer and additional information are available on nolichucky.org.