Mountain Findings Awards $51,000 in Scholarships

 PRESS RELEASE (05-12-2025)

MOUNTAIN FINDINGS THRIFT STORE 

Focus on certifications, trades, and 2-year degrees highlighted $51,000 in scholarships awarded

For nearly 60 years, Mountain Findings in Highlands, NC has been dedicated to enriching our local communities. This year, Mountain Findings proudly recognize thirteen outstanding graduating seniors with a total of $51,000 in scholarships, celebrating their achievements and fueling their future endeavors.

Jill Helmer, president, highlighted a significant focus on this year's awards, which proudly recognized seniors pursuing careers in the trades, certification programs, and 2-year degrees. 

• Caleb Burrell

• Brooklynn Petrone

• Aislynn Wyatt-Luck

• Emily Craig

• Gabriela Diaz-Martinez

• Shirley Diaz-Ovando

• Mallory Shriver

• Max Deppe

• Katie Earp

• Carson Forrester

• Yasmin Mendoza Cortez

• Rea Miller

• Finn Garner

Mountain Findings is honored to recognize a senior who has demonstrated remarkable dedication and commitment to their community. Finn Garner, who has volunteered at Mountain Findings for nearly three years, embodies the spirit of community and commitment that drives the 100% volunteer-run nonprofit organization.

In recognition of his exceptional contribution, Mountain Findings proudly awarded Finn Garner a $20,000 scholarship to support his college career, empowering him to continue making a positive impact.

A heartfelt gratitude goes to all the donors, volunteers, and patrons, whose generosity has made this possible.

Mountain Findings is a 501(c)3 organization that accepts donations of gently used furniture, housewares, artwork, and other miscellaneous items. The funds raised are allocated toward scholarships and community enrichment grants to nonprofit organizations. For more information, please visit www.MountainFindings.org.

Donations may be dropped off at 452 Spruce Street, Highlands location or call 828-526-9929 to arrange for a pickup.

(Lf to Rt) Board members John Warner and Jill Helmer, along with scholarship committee member Steve Parnell, present Finn Garner with a $20,000 scholarship to support his pursuit of a degree in Construction Management from Western Carolina University.