About Us

Our Dedicated Team

Joanne Winkler

Joanne is a passionate community advocate and co-founder of FairviewStrong.org. As the owner of ESCO Insurance Agency, she’s been involved in the Fairview Business Association, Town Crier, and local schools, building strong ties across the community long before the hurricane hit. After seeing the disaster up close, she was determined to help those still struggling long after the initial crisis. Joanne played a key role in securing nonprofit status and organizing recovery efforts. Through FairviewStrong.org, she keeps working to provide long-term support and resilience for the Fairview community.

Jenny Brunet

Jenny is a longstanding member of the Fairview community, bringing valuable insight through her background in real estate and construction. Her blend of professional and hands-on experience makes her a unique and effective connector for our building projects, bringing together people from all backgrounds to work toward common goals. Jenny plays a key role in supporting FairviewStrong.org’s mission, helping unite resources and rebuild the community she loves.

Phil Troyer

Phil has been a Fairview resident for over fifty years, having previously owned and operated the local Amish shop and served as a leader in the Mennonite Disaster Service team. When disaster struck, Phil refused to sit back. He shared his cell number for those in need and made himself available across the town, doing everything he could to help. With years of service and a network of devoted friends, Phil and his team provide the muscle behind FairviewStrong.org’s recovery efforts.

Adrian Butter

Chief Financial Officer
Adrian Butter serves as Chief Financial Officer of FairviewStrong.org, helping oversee the organization’s financial stewardship, reporting and responsible use of donated and grant funds. He supports FairviewStrong’s commitment to transparency and maximizing the impact of resources provided for Hurricane Helene recovery.

Our Financial Journey

2026: We’ve put the pedal to the metal

FairviewStrong.org raised almost another $178,000. With almost $320,000 available through the second quarter of 2026, more than $251,000 was used to fund Hurricane Helene recovery for 20 families. Since its inception, FSO has helped fund recovery efforts for a total of 25 families.

2025: We’re on the way

FairviewStrong.org raised almost $190,000, of which more than $47,000 was used to fund Hurricane Helene recovery efforts for 10 families.

2024: Our journey starts

In the wake of the incredible destruction wrought by Hurricane Helene on the Fairview and Garren Creek fire districts of Western North Carolina, a group of concerned residents began pairing neighbors reaching out for recovery help with volunteers offering their time and resources. While effective, it was soon realized that a much larger organizational response was needed to address the dire needs of families impacted by the storm. Out of this realization, FairviewStrong.org was started. In November, FSO received its Articles of Incorporation as a North Carolina charitable organization, and in December it was recognized as a 501(c)(3) public charity.