R.A.F.T. For America Bipartisan Rafting Event to Foster Unity at NOC Monday, August 12

WHAT: Reuniting America by Fostering Trust (R.A.F.T.) for America Challenge, a project of Team Democracy, has partnered with the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) to host a unique whitewater rafting experience. This event brings together individuals from diverse political perspectives and various industries to foster connection and unity through a shared outdoor adventure.

WHEN:
Monday, August 12, 2024
Time: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Pre-trip Interviews: 9:50 a.m.
Post-trip Q&A: Approximately 3:15 p.m.

R.A.F.T. America Challenge at NOC Tentative Schedule:

• 9:00 a.m.: Arrival at Nantahala Outdoor Center, and Introductions
• 9:30 a.m.: Introduction of R.A.F.T. for America, Ken Powley
• 9:40 a.m.: Introduction of Outfitting and Nantahala National Forest, Outfitters
• 9:50 a.m.: Pre-Trip interviews
• 10:30 a.m.: Pre-Trip Orientation & bus trip
• 11:30 a.m.: Launch
• 12:15 p.m.: Lunch at Ferebee Park
• 1:00 p.m./1:15 p.m.: Launch
• 2:30 p.m.: Take-out, get dry
• 3:15 p.m.: Hors d’oeuvres and post-trip Q&A, interviews, etc.
• 5:30 p.m.: Appreciations and departure

WHERE:
Nantahala Outdoor Center
13077 US-19
Bryson City, NC 28713

WHO:
NOC, R.A.F.T. America and Team Democracy

DETAILS:
R.A.F.T. America is an initiative by Team Democracy designed to bridge divides in America by fostering trust and mutual understanding through shared experiences. By bringing together people from various backgrounds—political, professional and personal—R.A.F.T. America seeks to promote dialogue, collaboration, and unity. This bipartisan rafting event at NOC is part of a broader effort to create spaces where individuals can connect, communicate and build trust, all while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Tentative RSVP list:

• S. Senator Thom Tillis
• Robin Ramsey, Regional Representative for Sen. Tillis
• Kyle Bridges, State Director for U.S. Sen. Budd
• Ryan Dierker, Legislative Director for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Tommy Laughter, District Field Representative for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Lake Silver, Field Representative for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Cody Sims, Senior Legislative Assistant for U.S. Sen. Tim Scott
• Danielle Gibbs, Deputy State Director for U.S. Sen Tim Scott
• C. State Senator Kevin Corbin
• C. State Rep. Mike Clampitt
• C. State Rep. Caleb Rudow
• A. State Rep. Shawn Still
• Former Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts
• Amy Allison, Director NC Outdoor Recreation Economy
• Ken Powley, Executive Director of R.A.F.T. for America
• Julie Thorner and Team, Liquid Spark Marketing
• Representatives from Nantahala River Outfitters Nantahala Outdoor Center, Wildwater Ltd., and Endless River Adventures
• Community Leaders & Members
• Additional NC State elected officials have been invited, participation to be determined.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

• Interview Ken Powley, Executive Director for R.A.F.T. for America, and Steven Foy, Director of Outpost Operations at NOC.