Grow Well Appalachia, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit incubator and think tank, is dedicated to collaborating with individuals and organizations throughout the Appalachian region to research and advocate for the development of self-sustaining healing communities and adventure parks.
In 2024, GWA established a presence in Johnson County, Tennessee, after 22 years of service in North Carolina. We assessed the region, residents and their needs, familiarize ourselves with Tennessee's abundant resources, and the complex challenges of small-town living and business ownership.
At the heart of the region—echoing the resilient spirit of Appalachia itself—GWA's CEO recognized a deep-rooted strength, and identified potential distractions that could impede this non-profits overarching mission: to support and facilitate meaningful change now, and for future generations to come. **Growth is essential; without it, towns, cities, and individuals risk stagnation.
Since 2002, this non profit has moved beyond a 'local' service minded mentality and we are now ready with our new action plan: to empower the region to thrive rather than merely survive.
Our team and volunteer base has expanded. Our objective is clear. Our mission is to enhance lives, educate and research conservation strategies, get people back out into nature, and inspire community participation.
Health, healing, and the enjoyment of life are integral to this mission as well. All work and no play leads to a tedious existence. We aspire to pave the way for positive change and develop solutions that promote health, healing, food security, sovereignty, and sustainability within the Appalachian region.
Buckminster Fuller encapsulated it perfectly: "You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete."
Stay tuned! We are building something significant!
Meet our Team of visionary thinkers and compassionate leaders.
Board Members:
Ralph Nielsen
Martina Ferret
David Kapler
Nicole M. Henderson
GWA Possum Dream Team & Volunteers:
Ralph Nielsen, Retired Disney Imagineer
*Theme Park Design/Build
*Museum Design/Build
*Aquaria Design/Build
*TV and Film Design/Build - Scenery and Practical Props
Martina Ferret, Management: Leadership/Change Agent/Problem Solver
Patrick Brennan, Retired Disney Imagineer, VP, Show Quality Worldwide
Ade Agbalaya, Disney Imagineer, Architect
David Jones, J&D Studios - Film, TV, Theme Parks, and Museums – Design/Build
Andy Westfall, Hershend Family Entertainment
David Kapler, Retired Military, Retired Fire Chief,
Public Safety, FF, EMT, Fire marshal, arson investigator, peace officer, fire chief and emergency manager.
AA (Aeronautics), BA (Management), MPA (Public Administration)
Fire Administration/Instructor, Executive Fire Officer (NFA)...
Nicole M. Henderson ThM, Founder/CEO
Visionary/Holistic, Functional, & Energy Medicine
Health & Wellness Advocate
Published Author
Grow Well Appalachia (GWA Projects) is an organization focused on preserving the unique lands, communities, and wildlife of the Appalachian region through collaboration, research, and problem-solving.
**Our Values:**
- **Empowerment:** We aim to foster long-term growth and sustainability by empowering the region through cooperation.
- **Good Stewardship:** We prioritize responsible care for the land and its inhabitants to ensure well-being and growth.
- **Imagination:** We encourage innovative ideas and creative solutions to address complex regional issues through research and advocacy.
- **Big Thinkers:** Our organization values advanced thinkers who explore new solutions without being hindered by outdated models.
**Our Mission:**
GWA is dedicated to providing solutions for complex issues in the Appalachian region, helping communities protect essential resources and build sustainable practices. Founded in 2003 in North Carolina, presently located in Johnson County, Tennessee.
We aim help this region of Appalachia to enhance food security, promote educational partnerships, and encourage organic farming through mentorship and awareness.
Join us in creating thriving, self-sufficient Appalachian communities or support our mission to make a difference today! Thank you for being part of the solution!
Welcome to Grow Well Appalachia! We appreciate your interest in learning more about us.
I’m Nicole, a published author, motivational speaker, consultant, and holistic health advisor, and I am honored to serve as the CEO of GWA.
Over the past 35 years in business, I have gained invaluable memories and insights that shape GWA’s mission to promote personal healing, freedom, adventure, and sustainable futures.
These past four years in Tennessee have been particularly enlightening. I’ve had the privilege of engaging with local residents to evaluate how GWA and our board members can make a positive impact in Appalachia and surrounding communities. Like many organizations, GWA has encountered growth challenges, but I remain committed to maintaining a positive perspective, much like you probably do. My deep connection to nature and the Great Creator inspires me with the strength and clarity needed to forge new partnerships and develop legacy-driven projects that truly change lives.
I am passionate about finding creative solutions to life’s challenges! By embracing innovative approaches, promoting peace, and brainstorming constructive resolutions, we can help communities navigate obstacles together. Our Volunteers and Board Members are incredible collaborators with tremendous hearts!
Join me and the exciting new additions to the GWA team in working together to create brighter futures, support others in overcoming challenges, and uphold the principles of stewardship and legacy-mindedness.
2024
Recession-proofing Johnson County. Our new TN home-base, as of January 2024, has been working on a Seed Library for JC residents, collaborating with universities and organizations to support and collaborate on programs to build stronger communities. Contact us to join our efforts and stay tuned for updates!
August 2023
Nicole M Henderson returns as CEO to establish a presence in Johnson County, Mountain City Tennessee as an Incubator and Think Tank, focused on creating programs to build self-sustaining communities, establish food sourcing, food sovereignty and sustainability programs.
February 2016
2016-2023: Through Zenith Evolution Inc., Gail Pieropan leads the way by spearheading a research campaign to establish sustainable farms for homeless Veterans, to create jobs and homes for those in need."
July 2007
"We were dedicated to educating our community on ways to help elders in navigate the complex healthcare system. Our team helped individuals understand medical information and communicate their needs to healthcare providers and loved ones."
January 2005
June 2003
A privately funded 501C3 organization., with the sole purpose to support and educate families, educators, and communities in protecting their children, homes, and workplaces. Our programs offer certified, private canine searches as an additional tool to keep children safe.
August 2002
"Discover the roots of our organization with our humble beginnings. We obtained non-profit status and initiated a movement to educate North Carolina on holistic healthcare. Our focus on human welfare, education, and youth development drives our mission."
We accept donations through checks and in-kind contributions in person (after initial contact). Please use the link below to donate, select the program you'd like to support, and specify the amount you wish to contribute. If you are considering bequeathing land, vehicles, or other assets to GWA, please contact us for more information. Thank you in advance for your support and consideration.
Yes, GWA is a non profit 501 C3 organization separate from the government that engages in and raises awareness for humanitarian, environmental, and societal causes.
Yes, following our initial phone call, we can schedule a time to get better acquainted and brainstorm ideas. If you own a business and would like to arrange a consultation to discuss problem-solving solutions, please select "Contact Us" to get started.
"Join us in creating a resilient Johnson County - secure our future and thrive in Appalachia."
