The Town of Hudson is proud to lead a community-wide effort to celebrate and support veterans and their families across Caldwell, Burke, and Catawba counties. With support from the North Carolina Arts Council, Stories of Resilience will launch in January 2026, offering artist-led workshops that use storytelling and the arts to preserve legacies, strengthen family bonds, and promote healing.
From January through March 2026, veterans and family members will participate in sessions blending storytelling, visual arts, and digital media at The HUB Station in Hudson. Each participant will create a personal Heroes of Service hardcover storybook—combining memories, photos, and narratives. Families are encouraged to add reflections and photos to honor their loved one’s service. A collaborative Community Heroes Book will also be created and archived in area schools, libraries, and community spaces to celebrate local service for generations to come. Virtual access will be available for homebound veterans to ensure broad participation.
“This project is about more than making books—it’s about honoring service, strengthening family bonds, and creating safe spaces for healing,” said Ryan Willis, Co-Founder of Life Rootz.
Community Partners & Artists
Hosted at The HUB Station with the support of The Town of Hudson, Foothills Veterans Helping Veterans, Caldwell–Catawba–Burke Veterans Service Offices, Carolina Caring, and WHKY’s Military Mondays. Participating artists include musician and storyteller Michael Reno Harrell, Hickory Photography, Life Rootz, and The Mitford Museum.
Save the Date: A public exhibition and community book launch will be held in May 2026. The Town of Hudson extends heartfelt thanks to the North Carolina Arts Council and to all local partners whose support makes this initiative possible.
Media & Participation Inquiries:
Addie Cardwell-Faber (The HUB Station) 828-726-8871
Jessica Willis (Life Rootz ~ Program Facilitator)· 828-291-8995
Joseph Calloway (Caldwell Veteran Services Officer) 828-757-1345
Rebecca Mattison (Catawba Veteran Services Officer) 828-465-8255
Molly Eller (Burke County Veteran Services Officer) 828-439-7376
