President General Denise Doring VanBuren of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution has charged local DAR chapters to “Rise and Shine for America.” Old Unicoi Trail Chapter has responded through its continued engagement with its communities — telling about DAR, what DAR stands for and what DAR does to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism.
On Oct. 22 Old Unicoi Trail continued its support of Woody Gap School in Suches by making a $500 donation. Sandie Harbuck, Chapter Librarian and Cayce Friedly, Corresponding Secretary, both of Blairsville, presented a check to Carol Knight, Principal of Woody Gap. The donation is made possible by member donations.
The Community Classroom Committee of DAR encourages daughters to provide volunteer or financial support to children in their own communities. According to Sandie Harbuck, “Our donation helps provide special experiences for Woody Gap students and supports instructional costs.”
Located in the scenic, rural Suches community of Union County, Woody Gap School is committed to meeting the unique needs of every student from kindergarten through high school including dual enrollment. Middle and high school students are encouraged to experience academics at their own pace while participating in athletics, project-based, place-based learning and a variety of electives. Outdoor learning options are just outside the school doors. Woody Gap School is also home to the Band of Steel and the regionally known Indian Summer Festival, always the first full weekend in October.
The DAR, founded in 1890, just admitted its one millionth daughter. Women 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution are eligible to join.
Old Unicoi Trail Chapter meets the second Saturday September through December and February through April. Its membership draws from Clay and Cherokee counties in North Carolina, Fannin, Union and Towns counties in Georgia. To attend a meeting email: oldunicoitrail@gmail.com.