Restore What Is Irreplaceable- Return Gabe's Light

Saturday, February 24, 2024, marked one agonizing month since we last heard from Gabe. Each passing day without him deepens the heartbreak and anguish for Gabe’s mother, father, sister, brother, grandparents, entire extended family, and community. They remain inconsolable over the unexplained disappearance of their beloved son, brother, nephew, and cousin. "The pain of his disappearance grows by the day. I want everyone to step back and realize Gabe Crow isn't just a missing person...he is the last link in the Rivercane basket world for my generation."

Not having him here in Cherokee NC, is so significant to our community and culture that many outside of here do not understand the impact of his absence. "I've sat and talked with him for hours, listening to him speak about his outlook on life. His ability to incorporate his understanding of our culture into his basketry and the genius in his designs is truly inspiring. He's as authentic as you get for his age and craftsmanship."

"Gabe brims with plans for our people, and as the days go by, all I can think of is all the work Gabe and I wanted to do together. We had ideas of starting our own business that supports and gives back to Eastern Band Cherokee artisans. We wanted to conduct scientific studies to link our culture and science together, diving deeper into the traditional knowledge of our ancestors. We even talked about starting an artisan department and having a place for artisans to gather and create. All of this eats at me. I miss my friend and brother. We have so much work to do. I truly hope all of y'all understand how important Gabe is to our culture/community. For my generation, this will be one of the biggest losses to our culture if he's not found." Please help find him so he can return back to his family and people.

This fundraiser supports his family’s search for him. The family will utilize the first $1,600 to go towards a four-week billboard sign in the neighborhood where Gabe was last seen. The remaining funds will go towards hiring a private investigator, travel support, such as gas/food/lodging for family and search parties that need to remain on-site for extended periods, expanding the search area, and printing a high volume of flyers. Any amount raised above the goal will be put towards searching for him.

The family holds on to hope and faith that Gabe WILL be found so his vital work may continue. Anyone holding clues to his disappearance bears an obligation to urgently step forward. Please help restore Gabe to his community. I ask for your support with donations to Gabe's family and prayers for his safe return.

We love you, Gabriel, we are coming for you.

Written by Dylan and Brooke.