Tree of Life
Cultural Foundation
An educational & charitable 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Welcome to the Tree of Life Cultural Foundation
Rooted in Community. Growing in Possibility.
At the Tree of Life Cultural Foundation, we believe that every person holds the potential to learn, create, grow, and contribute something meaningful to the world around them.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Western North Carolina, our mission is to nurture the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—through opportunities that inspire creativity, encourage lifelong learning, celebrate cultural heritage, and strengthen human connections.
We envision communities where people of all ages and backgrounds have access to the knowledge, experiences, and encouragement they need to discover their talents, develop new skills, and lead richer, more fulfilling lives.
Through the arts, education, traditional skills, wellness, and shared cultural experiences, we seek to cultivate not only individual growth, but also a deeper sense of understanding, belonging, and unity.
We believe that when people grow, communities flourish. And when communities come together to share their knowledge, creativity, and traditions, they create a foundation upon which future generations can build.
Our roots are in the community. Our branches reach toward possibility. And our purpose is to help every life flourish.
Welcome to Tree of Life. There's a place for you here.
The GATHERING
Date: Saturday, Nov 21, 2026 @ 1:30 PM
Host: First Presbyterian Church
(438 W Main St, Forest City, NC)
A Community Meal followed by an afternoon of STORY SLAM
Tall Tales - Fairytales - Life Stories - & More
1:30 Community Meal (Provided)
2:00 Open Mic (Share Your 8 Min Story)
3:00 Featured Storytellers Take Stage
Everyone Welcome!
Free Admission/Donations Appreciated
Sponsored by
First Presbyterian Church of Forest City &
Tree of Life Cultural Foundation
Youth Choral League
Join a team—not of baseball or soccer players—but of enthusiastic kids who love to sing and are excited to learn music! Each practice day has two parts: most of the time is spent singing together, and the rest is for learning how to read music and understand basic music theory. Kids will take part in fun "challenges" with their own team and compete with other teams—just like a game! There will be winners, making it a fun and motivating way to learn and practice throughout the week. Through commitment and teamwork, kids will grow musically and gain skills that will last a lifetime.
INTEREST MEETING & OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, Nov 22 at 3pm
First Presbyterian Church, Forest City, NC
Tree of Life is proud to sponsor this great opportunity!
Orchestra League
The Rutherford County Orchestra League is designed for beginning-level violin, viola, and cello players to practice together in a small group setting. Each group will be divided by age range. Teamwork and unity is what makes each team successful. Outreach is part of our mission, with each team having the opportunity to play at various locations throughout the community.
INTEREST MEETING & OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, Nov 22 at 3pm
First Presbyterian Church, Forest City, NC
Come join a creative team that is molding a hopeful future for our community, and beyond!
Tree of Life is proud to sponsor this great opportunity!
Rutherford JAM
Rutherford JAM (Junior Appalachian Musicians) brings young musicians together through group teaching, jams sessions, cultural enrichment opportunities, and performances - creating a fun, supportive way to learn, keep tradition alive, and make music together.
INTEREST MEETING & OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, Nov 22 at 3pm
First Presbyterian Church, Forest City, NC
Tree of Life is proud to sponsor this great opportunity!
Sponsored by TOLCF
An Evening of STARGAZING
with Shannon Mann
UPCOMING DATE: TBA
LOCATION: TBA
All Ages Welcome
This is a FREE event! (Donations Appreciated)
Donations support the TOLCF Scholarship Fund.
The evening will start with a short presentation about the night sky and about what we will be seeing that evening.
Past Event
Sponsored by TOLCF
"An Evening of Stargazing"
w/ Shannon Mann
Monday, November 3, 2025
6:00-8:30 PM
First Presbyterian Church
Forest City, NC
FREE ADMISSION
Past Event
Sponsored by TOLCF
"Continental Divide" CONCERT
Saturday, October 25, 2025
7:00-10:00 PM
Pavilion On Park Square (POPS)
Forest City, NC
FREE ADMISSION
Past Event
Sponsored by TOLCF
Storytelling Workshop & Story SLAM
W/ John Fowler, Lance Smith & Doug Elliott
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Ages 5 - Adult
First Presbyterian Church of Forest City, NC
Workshops: 4:00-5:30 pm Supper: 5:45-6:45 pm
Story Slam: 7-9 pm
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