A Century-Long Commitment
One of Crossnore’s most dedicated supporters is also one of its longest-standing: the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR, established 1890). For nearly a century, their unwavering commitment has helped shape the heart of Crossnore’s mission and continues to uplift children and families across our communities.
The Beginning of a Powerful Partnership
The connection began not long after Dr. Mary Martin Sloop and her husband, Dr. Eustace Sloop, founded Crossnore School in 1913. Around 1921, one of Crossnore’s earliest teachers, an Illinois Daughter, shared news of the new school during the annual DAR Continental Congress in Washington, D.C. Her presentation sparked interest, and Dr. Sloop was invited to formally request that Crossnore be added to the DAR’s approved schools list. She did just that, and by 1924, Crossnore received official recognition.
Shared Values and Deep Roots
Dr. Sloop, a longtime DAR member who later helped establish the Crossnore DAR Chapter in 1931, believed deeply in the power of education—a core pillar of the DAR. She often said, “A chance at a fine education is the best way to help children rise above their circumstances.” Her passion laid the foundation for a lasting partnership rooted in shared purpose.
Investing in the Future
In 1933, the North Carolina Daughters funded the construction of Crossnore’s first “Big Girls” dormitory. Today, this historic building houses our Therapy Services and stands as a symbol of healing and resilience on our Avery campus.
Over the years, generations of Daughters have continued to walk alongside Crossnore—offering not only financial support but also prayers, encouragement, and love. Chapters from across North Carolina, the United States, and even abroad have made an impact through generous giving and in-kind donations. Their support comes in many forms, including:
- Quarterly funding from a trust established by Texas Daughter Ella Young Atwell
- Annual grants from the Friends of DAR Schools Committee (established 1903)
- Contributions from the DAR Junior Membership Committee through the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund (established 1937)
DAR Support at Work in 2025
This year, DAR support has provided vital funding for utilities and maintenance across three cornerstone buildings on our Avery campus: Marjorie Williams Academy, Belk Dining Hall, and the Loftis Gymnasium.
Additional 2025 DAR funding has made the following initiatives possible:
- Anderson Academy, our trauma-informed community charter school in Winston-Salem
- Summer programming, including the annual beach trip for youth in our Campus-Based foster care program
- Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) training for our licensed therapists
- Our pet nurturing program, which places rescue dogs in every on-campus cottage in Avery and Winston-Salem
- The Promise Scholarship Program, representing our commitment to deliver transformative services to North Carolina children and families in crisis
A Lasting Bond
The relationship between Crossnore and the Daughters of the American Revolution is more than historic. It is a living, evolving alliance built on shared values and renewed purpose. We remain profoundly grateful for every chapter, every Daughter, and every generous gift that helps our children heal, grow, and thrive.
