You Can Save Lives in the Red River Gorge
Every year, countless adventurers explore the breathtaking beauty of the Red River Gorge. When the unexpected happens—whether it’s a lost hiker, a climber in distress, or a sudden medical emergency—the Wolfe County Search & Rescue Team is ready to respond.
Your Donation Makes a Difference
Your contribution directly supports our mission to save lives in the Red River Gorge. Here’s how your donation helps:
Rapid
Response
Ensures our volunteer teams deploy immediately when someone is in danger.
Advanced Equipment
Funds the equipment and medical supplies needed to make rescues safe and effective.
Continuous Training
Keeps us prepared for any situation with ongoing, specialized training.
Community Education
Prevents incidents through our outdoor safety and preparedness programs.
Real Stories, Real Impact
On July 20 this year, after five days of never giving up, WCSART found two crucial clues — the shoe print and walking stick of Scott Hern, a hiker who had been missing in the Gorge for two weeks. The team continued searching the creek above Bell Falls when they heard a faint call for help.
Team member Eric Wolterman raced toward the cry, climbed a steep hill and found Scott, who said, “Thank you so much. Will you give me a hug?” Eric, overcome with emotion, embraced him, saying, “It was the best hug of our lives.”
With the assistance of a Kentucky State Police helicopter, the team hoisted Scott out of the dense terrain. He was then taken by ambulance to the hospital. News of Scott’s miraculous rescue after 14 days — including 12 days without food or water — spread from Kentucky to news outlets around the globe.
How Your Donation Helps
$600 Helps us buy two rescue harnesses
$500 Replaces a fourth of the rope needed every few years
$300 Buys one search and rescue helmet
$100 Funds specialized wilderness first-aid training for one volunteer
$70 Enables the purchase of two rescue-rated carabiners
$25 Buys five feet of rope
About Wolfe County Search & Rescue Team
The Wolfe County Search & Rescue Team (WCSART) is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization dedicated to saving lives in Wolfe County and the Greater Red River Gorge area. Our highly trained volunteers respond to emergencies, performing critical rescues for lost or injured hikers, climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.
We extend our expertise to assist in search and rescue operations in Menifee and Breathitt counties. We also collaborate closely with Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky State Police whenever our services are needed.
With your support, we can continue to provide these vital, life-saving services to our community now and well into the future.
Join Our Life-Saving Mission
Whether it’s a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, every dollar counts.