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Knobelsdorff Launches Relief Drive and Mobilizes 35 Employees for Hurricane Recovery in North Carolina

Update: Week 1 in North Carolina

Our team hit the ground running, building 50 bunk beds for volunteers (50 more to be built this week), and tackling relief efforts where needed. From clearing 1-2 feet of mud from crawl spaces to removing ruined HVAC systems, demolishing walls and floors to help homes dry out, and clearing debris, the progress has been incredible. A special shoutout to foreman, Casey Ryan (known as the 'MN Man' by North Carolina residents), for going above and beyond, staying late and finding new ways to help wherever possible. And this week (11/11) - YOUR donations will arrive on the semi truck, ready to make an impact where needed. Thank you for making this possible!

Update: Week 2 in North Carolina

Week 2 in North Carolina: Our team has been persistent in their efforts, wrapping up mud removal in crawl spaces—only to return after heavy rain on Thursday left homes in need again. They’ve been hard at work spraying a bleach solution to kill mold in multiple houses.

Shoutout to Levi for stepping up by identifying hidden mold that could have caused serious issues down the road. Debris cleanup continues to be a daily task, whether from demolition or the initial storm aftermath. One of the most emotional moments came when Casey spoke with a family in Old Fort—the only ones who stayed in their community. The homeowner shared their heartfelt gratitude, saying their town felt forgotten until our team showed up to help. As the team prepares to return home on Friday, we are so proud of the impact they’ve made and the hope they’ve brought to these families. This is what the KE way is all about.

Update: Week 3 in North Carolina

Our team is coming home this week, and we are forever reminded of the resilience, gratitude, and humanity we’ve witnessed over these past weeks. From clearing debris to building bunk beds, from wiping away mud to helping families reclaim hope—this journey has left an imprint on all of us. The heartfelt words from those we’ve helped will stay with us: ‘You’re heroes,’ ‘You’ve brought hope,’ and ‘Thank you for not forgetting us.’ To everyone who supported us—whether through donations, kind words, or being part of this effort—you’ve helped change lives.

Goodhue, MN – November 1, 2024 – Knobelsdorff (KE) is stepping up to support communities in North Carolina devastated by recent hurricanes through a two-part relief effort: a local drive to collect essential cold-weather gear and the mobilization of about 40 employees for a three-week disaster recovery mission. The company is calling on local communities and businesses to join the cause by donating NEW blankets, basic clothing, socks, underwear, and gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, VISA) and new or gently used working dehumidifiers, which will be transported and distributed to families in need. The entire area is also in need of generators, businesses and individuals can donate used, in working condition generators or money to be used towards the purchase of generators.

Mobilization Efforts Begin November 4th 

On Monday, November 4th, KE will deploy a 40-person team to North Carolina, where they will spend three weeks aiding in disaster recovery. The crew will assist in repairing electrical infrastructure, clearing debris, and participating in the rebuilding of homes for families whose lives have been turned upside down by the storms. In addition to physical labor, the team will deliver cold-weather supplies to vulnerable families, ensuring they are prepared for the upcoming winter. The supplies were collected from a donation drive at Goodhue Schools November 1st.

Community Support & Relief Drive 

To further support hurricane-affected communities, KE has organized a relief drive in Goodhue, Red Wing and Zumbrota, MN. The company is partnering with local businesses to collect the following essential items:

  • New or gently used working dehumidifiers
  • New or gently used generators
  • Gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, VISA)
  • Cash donations to go towards the purchase of generators

Community members are encouraged to contribute, with donation drop-offs available three different dates and locations. Donors are to look for the KE semi and Vieths Trucking trailer. Please note relief organizers are requesting limited new essential clothing items only as they have a surplus of used donations.  

  • Monday, November 4th
    Goodhue Country Station/C-Store, 202 Front Street, Goodhue, MN 55027, 3pm-7pm 
  • Tuesday, November 5th
    Red Wing Slumberland, 160 Tyler Rd N, Red Wing, MN 55066, 3pm-7pm 
  • Wednesday, November 6th
    Mosaic Fast Lane, 1855 Roscoe Ave, Zumbrota, MN 55992, 3pm-7pm 

“We’ve seen firsthand how disasters can disrupt entire communities,” said Karl von Knobelsdorff, CEO, KE. “By mobilizing our team and gathering critical supplies, we hope to make a lasting difference for the families and communities in North Carolina. It’s our responsibility and privilege to lend a hand where it’s needed most.” 

How to Get Involved 

KE invites the local community to join this meaningful cause. Contributions will be loaded onto trucks and driven to North Carolina, where they will be distributed directly to families in need. 

For more information about KE’s hurricane relief efforts or how you can support this mission, please contact Megan Ramaker or Tiffany Gadient. 

About Knobelsdorff: With a strong foundation in family values and over 35 years of experience, Knobelsdorff offers specialized electrical, automation, and renewable energy solutions across various markets, including food and beverage, renewable fuels, industrial manufacturing, and more. Operating nationwide, Knobelsdorff has offices in two regional locations and five satellite sites, working across 28 states in 2023. 

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