Volunteer Spotlight: How Mike Bean Helped Feed Communities After Hurricane Helene
Mike Bean’s experience stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when compassion and community unite. A long-time professional in the culinary field from Asheville, NC, Mike felt compelled to step in as soon as Hurricane Helene devastated the area he calls home. Driven by his love for his city and its people, he volunteered with World Central Kitchen (WCK), determined to help however he could.
His service began at Curaté, a partner restaurant led by Chef Corps member Katie Button. There, he saw firsthand how teamwork can make a remarkable difference—thousands of meals were prepared and distributed to families impacted by the flooding. The following day, Mike continued his efforts at Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ, where WCK Response Corps member Chef Jamie McDonald led the transformation of the restaurant into a fully functioning Field Kitchen and command center for Helene relief efforts.
With experience rooted in both food service and media, Mike quickly became a key part of the mission. His drive, skill, and leadership led him to take on the role of Community Outreach Lead for WCK. Over the next six months, he coordinated meal distribution, built relationships with organizations across the country, and supported the region’s long-term recovery through close collaboration with new local nonprofits.
Even though the hurricane caused setbacks—including delays in reopening his own deli-restaurant—Mike never wavered in his commitment. His partnership with WCK continued to grow, and he went on to assist in disaster relief efforts throughout the Southeastern U.S.
Volunteers like Mike thrive thanks to support from partners such as FedEx, which works alongside nonprofits including WCK to deliver aid during crises. Through its Delivering for Good program, FedEx contributes shipping resources and charitable support to move vital supplies into affected regions. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, FedEx transported 35 shipments of cooking equipment to Tennessee, North Carolina, and Florida on behalf of WCK, helping ensure relief efforts reached communities quickly and effectively.
Mike’s journey illustrates how meaningful change happens when people and organizations unite with purpose. His story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make—and how many lives can be touched when we work together in times of need.
Click here to know more about FedEx Cares.
His service began at Curaté, a partner restaurant led by Chef Corps member Katie Button. There, he saw firsthand how teamwork can make a remarkable difference—thousands of meals were prepared and distributed to families impacted by the flooding. The following day, Mike continued his efforts at Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ, where WCK Response Corps member Chef Jamie McDonald led the transformation of the restaurant into a fully functioning Field Kitchen and command center for Helene relief efforts.
With experience rooted in both food service and media, Mike quickly became a key part of the mission. His drive, skill, and leadership led him to take on the role of Community Outreach Lead for WCK. Over the next six months, he coordinated meal distribution, built relationships with organizations across the country, and supported the region’s long-term recovery through close collaboration with new local nonprofits.
Even though the hurricane caused setbacks—including delays in reopening his own deli-restaurant—Mike never wavered in his commitment. His partnership with WCK continued to grow, and he went on to assist in disaster relief efforts throughout the Southeastern U.S.
Volunteers like Mike thrive thanks to support from partners such as FedEx, which works alongside nonprofits including WCK to deliver aid during crises. Through its Delivering for Good program, FedEx contributes shipping resources and charitable support to move vital supplies into affected regions. After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, FedEx transported 35 shipments of cooking equipment to Tennessee, North Carolina, and Florida on behalf of WCK, helping ensure relief efforts reached communities quickly and effectively.
Mike’s journey illustrates how meaningful change happens when people and organizations unite with purpose. His story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make—and how many lives can be touched when we work together in times of need.
Click here to know more about FedEx Cares.
Companies