When Hurricane Helene slammed into Western North Carolina, it didn’t care whose path it crossed. Unfortunately, for Robert "Papaw" Stepp and his family, it was right through their Mill Spring, NC home, leaving Papaw's home battered and bruised. Though it wasn’t completely lost, the damage was extensive and deeply personal. But true to form, Papaw didn’t sit still. That’s not his way.
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Even while his own home sat scarred and in need of major repairs, Papaw got to work — not for himself, but for others. Alongside his Wright Brothers team, he poured his energy into rebuilding and repairing the roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure damaged in the storm. No complaints. No excuses. His story didn’t go unnoticed.
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This week, Wright Brothers’ Safety Manager, Michael Buckner, had the privilege of presenting Papaw with a check on behalf of the company — a step toward restoring the home he put on the back burner while helping his community first. Soon, those long-overdue repairs will begin, and Papaw’s home will finally get the care and attention he showed to others.
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At Wright Brothers, we believe hard work, selflessness, and grit deserve to be honored. Papaw embodies all of those — and today, we are proud to give back to someone who always gives his all.
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