Our Mission
Camp Graves provides housing, outreach, and coordinates resources to break negative cycles, strengthen communities, and empower individuals to build lasting stability and independence.
Our Story: From A Temporary Response to a Permanent Resource
On December 10th, 2021, tragedy struck Mayfield, Kentucky, as an EF4 tornado tore through our community, leaving devastation in its wake. Homes and businesses were destroyed, and lives were forever changed. In the aftermath, neighbors, friends, and strangers came together to help those in need.
One of those first to answer the call was Micah Seavers, owner of Southern Red’s BBQ. With his family and an army of volunteers, Micah transformed his restaurant into a hub of hope—preparing thousands of meals for survivors, volunteers, utility workers, and emergency responders. Alongside Buck Shelton, who would become our co-founder and first Vice President, they delivered heating supplies and basic necessities to families still sheltering in their damaged homes.
Recognizing the urgent need for safe shelter, Micah partnered with Walking Humbly Outdoor Adventures, a local nonprofit dedicated to youth outdoor education. Their facilities became a temporary refuge for families who had lost everything, offering a roof, hygiene amenities, and kitchen facilities. Yet, it was clear that more was needed—a place not just for temporary relief, but for healing, rebuilding, and community.
From this need, Camp Graves was born.
Camp Graves was founded to address urgent needs after a single disaster, but we quickly saw that these challenges would persist beyond recovery. With the influx of assistance for tornado recovery, Camp Graves seized this temporary opportunity and created a permanent resource—ensuring ongoing support for those in need.
Through our different housing locations, we provide temporary housing and supportive services to our residents. Our programs are designed for those who have been traumatically displaced and for underserved populations facing barriers to emergency housing. Housing stability gives them the opportunity to rebuild, break negative cycles, gain independence from government entitlements, improve themselves through employment and educational opportunities, become more financially stable, secure permanent housing, and get connected to resources to support their long term success.
When you’re in need, it can be overwhelming not knowing where to turn for help. During the 2021 tornado response, we gathered information about organizations and programs from around the region. Taking those stacks of sticky notes and notebook scribbles, we created our “Resource Bank.” Today, we utilize this comprehensive directory to connect those in need to hundreds of resources, serving as a valuable starting point for anyone seeking assistance.
Camp Graves is grateful to everyone who has generously given of their time, talents, and resources to help us fulfill our mission. The unwavering support has been instrumental in both our early efforts and our continued commitment to serving the community, and we look forward to making an even greater impact together.
Supporting the Mission
Contact us at info@campgraves.org to volunteer by giving of your time and talents in service to our community or to donate materials and supplies.
Monetary donations can be made using the “Donate” link at the top of the page, by mailing a check to 15030 State Route 45 South, Water Valley, KY 42085, or you can contact our office at 270-568-0032 for more information on how you can donate.
Meet Our Board Members
These individuals have come together to fulfill the mission of Camp Graves and uphold the integrity, transparency and equality of the organization. Board Members give of their time and talents to serve their community with no monetary compensation.
Micah Seavers
Board President
When the tornado hit myself and so many others leapt into action to aide those in need how we were able. Once some of the smoke settled we saw a need and opportunity for growth. So, Buck Shelton and I with the help of so many others started a plan to help people take this opportunity to build back better. Taking personal property of mine that already host a non-profit, I expanded the buildable lot to house Camp GRAVES. While housing victims we also want to give them ever chance possible to grow through housing, education, support and resources. Having 5 kids I worry about the education and skills they will enter the world with. Seeing young and old alike that haven’t had that opportunity I want to see them given every opportunity to succeed and become a product of opportunity, not a victim of circumstance.
James Blakney
Vice President
I was directly affected by the December 10th tornado as I lost everything I owned while I was at work helping save the lives of others. Micah and his family immediately jumped in and helped my family and I as we tried to recover from its devastation, so when I was given the opportunity to join the board it was an absolute yes. My experience working in law enforcement, a lifelong resident of Graves County and being a direct victim of the December 10th tornado gives me a unique advantage as well as valuable insight I hope to bring to the board and I’m tremendously excited to be able to continuously serve my community.
Sherry Pyatt
Board Secretary
While I don’t currently live in Graves County, I was raised there for much of my life and will always consider Mayfield home. Having worked as a dispatcher the night of the December 10th Tornado in Fulton County and working at donation centers for the next several days after, I witnessed firsthand the devastation and despair of the people who had suffered such immense losses. However, in the weeks to follow, I also witnessed unity, support, blessings, and hope. I am excited to be a part of Camp Graves and to contribute what I can to the Community that I will always consider home.
Camila Montes
Board Treasurer
