Growing up in Florida, Tripp Berlinsky and his family are no strangers to the threat of hurricanes. The Berlinsky’s were spared the worst of Hurricane Helene last September, only receiving some wind and heavy rains.
Much of the East Coast and Appalachia were not nearly as lucky. Carter County, Tennessee was one of the hardest hit areas as record floods displaced many residents from their homes, many of whom have yet to fully recover from the disaster.
So, in the biggest moment of his young fishing career thus far, Berlinsky decided to give back to those in need.
After winning the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s at Watauga Lake, Berlinsky donated his entire $7,500 cash prize to the United Way’s Carter County Emergency Relief Fund for their continued flood relief efforts.
“I thought it was the right thing to do. A lot of people have been displaced and still don’t have their houses back. I couldn’t imagine that,” Berlinsky said. “I think it will go to a really good cause.”
After the tournament standings were made official, Berlinsky returned to the Bassmaster weigh-in stage and gave a tearful Mayor Patty Woodby the check.
“I want this money to go back into the community and help everyone here,” he said.
After the event, Woodby said she was thankful for Berlinsky’s donation as well as for the opportunity to bring the Bracket to her community.
“Tripp is an exceptional young man,” she said. “His selfless act of donating his winnings to support Carter County families recovering from Hurricane Helene was unexpected and truly touching. It showed his genuine generosity and the kind of person he is. He prioritizes his faith and family, and this is evident in his interactions with others. We are immensely grateful for his kindness and the hope he has instilled in our community.
“Hosting this tournament was already special, but Tripp’s gesture made it an unforgettable experience. I have no doubt that he will continue to achieve great things in the future.”
Driving around Carter County during the week, Berlinsky said, you largely couldn’t tell Helene had passed through the area in a lot of places. Looking around from Watauga Lake, he said many trees on the bank were snapped in half.
Even still, Berlinsky said it was one of the most beautiful places he has been in his life and was moved by how resilient the community has been and hopes brighter days are ahead.
“Their community is strong, and they would like to be open for business again,” he said. “It really is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been in my life.”
If you would like to donate to the Carter County Emergency Relief Fund, visit https://givebutter.com/ccemergencyfund
