When Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina, Jake Jarvis didn’t wait for help, he became it. This is the story of how one veteran and his crew turned devastation into action, and built hope one project at a time.
Our Story
Grading for Good: How It All Began
On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, leaving roads impassable, bridges swept away, and homes buried in debris. That very same day, Precision Grading, led by Jake Jarvis, got to work.
Without hesitation or requirement, Jake and his crew began clearing roads and driveways for neighbors, regardless of whether they were customers. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary: a grassroots disaster relief effort powered entirely by volunteer labor, donated equipment, and community trust.
Who We Are
Precision Grading has operated out of Saluda, North Carolina for over 20 years, offering services like grading, excavating, boulder retaining walls, ponds, land clearing, septic systems, and more. Owned and operated by Jake Jarvis, a U.S. Air Force veteran, the company has always been rooted in service and integrity. But after Hurricane Helene, that mission expanded.
Jake became a one-man command center for recovery, recruiting skilled volunteers, coordinating site visits, and donating every ounce of time and machinery he could spare.
What We’ve Done So Far
Since the storm:
Over 200 families have received help
More than $1 million in services and equipment has been donated
Only 8 days off since September 27 — including weekends and holidays
100+ families remain on the waiting list
The work has spanned communities including Hendersonville, Saluda, Pearson Falls, Green River Cove, Bat Cave, Chimney Rock, Broad River, and Black Mountain.
Our Process
Jake personally visits each site to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Then the crew mobilizes: clearing debris, rebuilding access, preparing homesites, and stabilizing riverbanks. The goal is to restore not just homes, but peace of mind.
In many cases, FEMA and insurance have failed these families. Jake prioritizes primary residences and people who have no other resources. Through his network, he’s even delivered donated camper trailers and coordinated with local electricians, plumbers, and framers.
Join our Mission
Though the labor is donated, the cost of doing this work is immense:
$3,500/day in fuel, equipment maintenance, and payroll
$850/load for gravel alone
Constant repairs and replacements for machinery worn by mountainous terrain
Precision Grading has been fully funding this effort — but to reach the 100+ families still waiting, we need continued support. Every donation fuels the next load of gravel, the next excavator run, the next family rescued from isolation.
This isn’t just about rebuilding roads and bridges — it’s about helping neighbors get their lives back. Jake and his team are out there every day, giving their time, tools, and heart. With your support, they can keep going.