With a threefold emphasis on supporting research, education and outreach, the Exploring Joara Foundation is dedicated to finding and protecting archaeological resources while fostering an understanding and appreciation for archaeology in the western NC. EXPLORING JOARA IS COMMITTED TO PROMOTING PUBLIC ARCHAEOLOGY IN THE UPPER CATAWBA AND YADKIN RIVER VALLEYS OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA. OUR MISSION IS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND OUTREACH IN PRESERVATION OF OUR PAST. THE FOUNDATION IS DEDICATED TO FINDING AND PROTECTING ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES, WHILE FOSTERING AN UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION FOR ARCHAEOLOGY IN THE COMMUNITY.