Upcoming Events

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A Night At Sea

Event Date: September 26th, 2026

Join Grounded Boots Relief for A Night at Sea, presented by Champion Comfort Experts an unforgettable evening of dining, entertainment, and community at Burntshirt Vineyards on Saturday, September 26. Inspired by the atmosphere of a luxury cruise, the evening features a Monte Carlo-style casino experience, live music, a catered dinner, and recognition of the volunteers and partners who help make our mission possible. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with festivities continuing until 10:00 PM. Enjoy an evening of casino-style games, music, and fellowship while supporting Grounded Boots Relief's disaster preparedness, response, and long-term recovery efforts. All games are for entertainment and fundraising only. No gambling will take place. Whether you're joining us to support the mission, recognize the people behind our work, or simply enjoy a unique night out, your attendance helps strengthen our ability to serve communities when disaster strikes. Attire: Hawaiian shirts, tropical attire, or dressy casual are encouraged. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with festivities continuing until 10:00 PM. Guests can enjoy an evening of friendly casino games, music, and fellowship, all while supporting Grounded Boots Relief's disaster response and recovery mission. No gambling will take place, as all games are for entertainment and to benefit the organization. Whether you're attending to support the cause, celebrate our volunteers, or simply enjoy a memorable night out, we hope you'll join us as we raise awareness, strengthen our community, and help prepare for the next disaster response.

Gear Up: Mock Deployment Weekend Packing List!

Please bring the gear and supplies you would use for a GBR deployment. Pack for comfort, self-sufficiency, and changing weather. This weekend is a chance to test your gear, identify anything missing, and refresh your supplies.

North Mills River Campground
5119 N. Mills River Road
Mills River, NC 28742

Potable water, restrooms, and parking are available at the campground.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/northcarolina/recreation/north-mills-river-campground

Bring the gear and supplies you would use for a typical GBR deployment. Plan for cool weather, wet conditions, and comfortable overnight camping.

☐ Discord, Avenza Maps, and what3words apps installed
☐ Fully charged cell phone
☐ Charging cables, wall charger, vehicle charger, and power bank
☐ FRS/GMRS radio or other assigned radio, with spare batteries

Shelter and Sleep

☐ Tent, truck, camper, or other approved sleeping quarters
☐ Tent rainfly, stakes, ground tarp, and needed setup supplies
☐ Cool-weather sleeping bag
☐ Sleeping pad or air mattress
☐ Pillow and extra blanket, sleeping-bag liner, or insulated quilt
☐ Camp chair
☐ Comfortable camp or evening footwear

Food and Personal Care

☐ Food, snacks, and water for your full stay
☐ Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder
☐ Cooler, stove/grill, fuel, cooking supplies, utensils, and cleanup supplies, as needed
☐ Personal hygiene items and hand sanitizer/wipes
☐ Required prescription medications and basic first-aid supplies
☐ Cash in small bills for fuel, tolls, and incidentals

Clothing and Safety Gear

☐ Weather-appropriate field clothing: durable pants, long-sleeve shirts, and warm layers
☐ Rain gear, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
☐ Extra socks, undergarments, sleepwear, and warm evening clothing
☐ Broken-in work boots
☐ Heavy-duty work gloves and a backup pair
☐ Safety glasses or goggles
☐ N95 or better dust masks
☐ Hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs

Field Essentials

☐ Backpack or daypack
☐ Flashlight or headlamp
☐ Multi-tool
☐ Duct tape, zip ties, and cord for basic field repairs
☐ Trash bags for personal waste and cleanup