Rise to [Re]Build: Our First Breakfast Marking Our 15th Year
It was a new event, but the same commitment.
More than 100 guests including corporate partners, community advocates, homeowners, and elected officials joined us on April 9th at The Ruth for the inaugural Rise to [Re]Build Breakfast, as we celebrated National Rebuilding Month and 15 years of service in the Greater Charlotte region.
The event opened with a moving video featuring homeowner Delores Miller, whose story set the tone for the morning. Christian Brown, our emcee, invited guests to reflect on what it means to be a neighbor and reminded us that a neighborhood is not defined by zip code, but by shared purpose.
Housing policy expert and co-author of Just Action, Leah Rothstein delivered a powerful keynote on the history of redlining and housing inequities. Her message urged us not only to understand our past but to take action in building a more just and inclusive future. Attendees had the opportunity to meet Leah and receive signed copies of her book.
Beth Morrison-North, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte, took the stage to share her own story beginning as a volunteer 13 years ago and eventually stepping into the role of the organization’s first full-time executive director in 2018. She spoke to the growth of the organization from a grassroots effort to a regional leader now serving five counties and completing more than 60 home projects annually.
Community Leaders at the Table
Beth also led a meaningful panel discussion featuring local leaders shaping their neighborhoods:
Melissa Gaston, North End Community Coalition (Druid Hills)
Greg Jarrell, QC Family Tree (Enderly Park)
Marjorie Parker, Hidden Valley Community Association (Hidden Valley)
Rachel Zwipf, Pottstown Heritage Group (Pottstown)
Todd Bleckley, SVP, Merchandising, Building Products at Lowe’s, offered remarks on the importance of corporate partnership and community investment. We are grateful to Lowe’s and our other event sponsors — McGuireWoods, Swinerton, First National Bank, and The Wonder Group for helping make this event possible.
Guests watched a moving video featuring homeowner Cheryl Kramer, whose story reminded us that what we do is not about dramatic renovations, but about restoring dignity, stability, and peace of mind.
Board Member Lonni Grattan closed the morning with a call to action. Guests were encouraged to “Scan, Swipe, and Give” using QR codes on every table — a tangible reminder that everyone can be part of the solution.
Thank you for joining us in honoring our past and investing in the future. Because of your support, we continue to repair homes, revitalize communities, and rebuild lives.
Mark your calendar: Rise to [Re]Build returns April 2026. If you would like to sponsor next year’s event, please contact, Director of Development and Communications Shereese Floyd.
