We are honored to share that we have been named a recipient of the 2026 Sky High Award, presented by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. The annual awards recognize organizations across Buncombe County for their resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the community.

We were recognized in the “Vista Award” category, which celebrates organizations making outstanding contributions to the region. The honor specifically acknowledged our efforts following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, when the music paused, and White Horse transformed into a critical community relief hub—providing essential supplies, shelter, and a warm, welcoming space for neighbors to gather, heal, and reconnect.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the Asheville Chamber,” said Bob Hinkle, founder of White Horse Black Mountain. “When our community was turned upside down, we simply did what neighbors do—we opened our doors”.

White Horse has always been about bringing people together, and serving as a relief hub was a natural extension of that mission. “If it weren’t for our incredible members and our membership program keeping the lights on, we wouldn’t have had a space to open up to our neighbors when they needed it most” remarked Zach Hinkle, Managing Director.

This award truly belongs to our members whose ongoing support sustains us, and to the staff, volunteers, neighbors, and musicians who came together to keep the heart of the Swannanoa Valley beating. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who stepped up during such a difficult time.

The 2026 Sky High Awards celebrate organizations throughout Western North Carolina that have demonstrated extraordinary perseverance while continuing to support the people, culture, and spirit of their communities. Award recipients were honored during the Chamber’s annual reception held at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. on May 28.

While we are deeply grateful for this recognition, our focus remains firmly on the future. We are still actively offering free community hub activities, ensuring we keep live music accessible to all while welcoming audiences back to the listening room. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to supporting local and regional artists and continuing to serve as a steady, accessible gathering place for the Black Mountain community.