1450028083508767

Travis Smith


 Travis Smith

Travis is a United Methodist pastor, nonprofit executive director, and grief counselor with 25 years of service across Western North Carolina and Charlotte. He holds a bachelor’s in religious studies and an M.Div. in Pastoral Counseling from Gardner-Webb University. Recently, he earned his Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, focusing his dissertation on the epidemic of loneliness and the restorative role of Fresh Expressions of Church. In 2014, Travis and his wife, Allyson, founded Blue Ridge Hope, a nonprofit providing mental health services regardless of a client's ability to pay. As Executive Director, he is dedicated to removing barriers to quality care. Additionally, for 12 years, he has led Sacred Ale, a Fresh Expression gathering that fosters open dialogue on faith, doubt, life, and theology. Through both his clinical and pastoral work, Travis remains committed to fostering community and healing in an increasingly isolated world.  


Blue Ridge Hope
Travis Smith Substack

EXPERIENCES
    Activity Time Information
    Show Date
    Sat 5 Sep 2026 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM
    Title ShortUnderstand Loneliness, Connection, Belonging
    Venue Terra
    Experience DescriptionIn a time where society can feel disconnected, Loneliness Cafe seeks to offer a chance to get reacquainted with a more intrapersonal approach of being together face-to-face and allowing space for vulnerability and authenticity. The Loneliness Cafe is a guided experience to explore the areas of loneliness, connection, and belonging. Modeled after the Death Cafe movement, the Loneliness Cafe offers a chance to discuss what can be, for some, a difficult topic, yet to do so in a structured, supportive environment. There are three levels of questions which guide the discussion; each level offers an opportunity to go deeper. The three levels are filled with intentionally designed questions to explore spirituality, personal experience, and practical next steps. Join us to trade digital disconnection for a genuine sense of place and community.