Judi Jetson: A Hurricane Hero

After 10 feet of water flooded Local Cloth’s River Arts District space, Judi Jetson dove into the mud (literally and figuratively) to rebuild what was lost—not just for herself, but for hundreds of artists across the region.

As the founder of Local Cloth, she helped launch a successful GoFundMe to compensate fiber artists for over $167,000 in lost inventory and supplies. But Judi didn’t stop there. She and a team of dedicated volunteers organized the Big Fiber Giveaway—an event that distributed more than 6,000 pounds of yarn, fleece, tools, and equipment to artists in need. With multiple BFGs in Swannanoa, Burnsville, and beyond, Judi and her team ensured that Western North Carolina’s creative community could rise again.

Thanks to her vision, donations, and determination, Local Cloth is on track to reopen this summer—and the artists she fought for are weaving new beginnings.

Judi Jetson, we are honored to recognize your leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to your community.