No one’s heart ever beat in sync with the Smoky Mountains quite like Dolly Parton’s. Even after becoming a world-famous star, the Sevier County native kept her roots close, making sure to always think of the people and places that helped shape her. For decades, Dolly poured her love and resources back into the Smoky Mountains. Whether it was opening doors for kids or helping families put the pieces back together after tragedy, she always found a way to give back. Here are 5 times Dolly Parton donated to causes in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Supporting Local Education Through the Dollywood Foundation
Dolly Parton created the Dollywood Foundation in 1988 in an effort to help Sevier County children succeed in school. One of her first big projects was the Buddy Program, which gave $500 to every Sevier County student who graduated high school in 1992 and 1993. This simple idea worked wonders, as dropout rates plummeted and many young lives began moving in a more positive direction. Over the years, the Dollywood Foundation has awarded scholarships to countless Sevier County students.
2. The Imagination Library Literacy Program
If there’s one philanthropic effort most folks know Dolly for, it's the Imagination Library. The program was launched right here in Sevier County in 1995, handing out a free book every month to local little ones. Over time, it grew into the global movement it is today. Millions of children around the world now receive those free books, all started from Dolly’s desire to help make sure local children had access to books.
3. The My People Fund Following the 2016 Wildfires
When devastating wildfires tore through Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas in 2016, Dolly Parton was one of the first people to step up to help. Just days after the wildfires, the Dollywood Foundation rolled out the My People Fund to get money directly to families whose homes were destroyed or damaged. Dolly promised those impacted $1,000 per month for 6 months, and after additional fundraising, including the Smoky Mountains Rise benefit, she ultimately helped raise millions of dollars for those who were left to pick up the pieces.
4. Supporting the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains
Dolly donated $1 million to the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains in Kodak in 2024. This gift was a game-changer. Not only did it push the organization past its $5 million fundraising goal, it launched Dolly’s Dream Center. The center gives local kids and families a space to learn, connect, and get support. It’s yet another example of Dolly investing in her hometown’s youngest generation.
5. Rebuilding the Mountains After Hurricane Helene
It wasn’t just her hometown that Dolly Parton was always willing to help. In 2024, Hurricane Helene ripped through the mountains, causing significant flooding damage in parts of East Tennessee, but especially on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains. She partnered with the Mountain Ways Foundation to send $1 million in relief to communities affected by the flooding. Dolly’s help went beyond Sevier County lines, showing that her caring spirit knew no bounds.
Dollywood’s Plans to Honor Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s story is tied to the Smoky Mountains through and through. Her legacy stretches far beyond her music and fame, as she was always there to lend a helping hand to those in need. Visit Sevier County and you’ll see her impact everywhere: in schools, the community, and of course at Dollywood.
Dolly’s Pigeon Forge theme park intends to remember Sevier County’s favorite daughter and keep her legacy alive. Learn more about how Dollywood plans to honor Dolly Parton’s legacy.
