My Middle School Years Made Me Who I Am Today

It’s embarrassing I haven’t thought of this before…it is such an important thing to understand. United Way staff members were asked to think about and share their own story of why they “Live United.” Several folks had very compelling experiences that made them aware of how important community is when something bad happens. And it is true that what drives many of us every day to do this work is remembering how difficult life is for so many.

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Homeless Students Face Barriers to Education in Buncombe County

by Wendy Logan Cuellar, MA.Ed., LPC
School Counselor, Enka Middle School

Growing up, my family didn't have a lot of money, but we always had food on the table and a consistent, stable home to live in. Unfortunately, as a school counselor for Enka Middle School, I see far too many students in my school and across Buncombe County who are not as fortunate.

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I Pledge to Vote

Primary -- Tuesday, March 3, 2020       Election Day -- Tuesday, November 3, 2020 

 

The first, and easiest thing to do is simply declare, "I am going to vote this year!"

Make that pledge below and United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County will promise to send you a few voting-related e-newsletters with key information and dates, including the first and last days of early voting, early voting sites, and more. 

Just Because It's Summer, Kids Don't Lose Their Appetites!

In February, I wrote a piece about a school in another state that took lunches away from students who weren’t paid up.  Thankfully, I learned then that Buncombe County Schools has a policy of ensuring each student has a lunch, even if his or her parents haven’t covered the cost for that day. Now, it’s even better news over the summer with the announcement that for the third year in a row, schools are offering free lunches at 16 different sites scattered around the county.

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Marilyn Patton Leaves a Legacy of Philanthropy

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 04/17/2014 - 1:17pm

by David Bailey
President/CEO

We’ve lost a dear friend and I want to share a few memories with you.

Marilyn Patton, the first lady of philanthropy to so many in our community, passed on April 9. If you never had the opportunity to meet Marilyn, the best way I can describe her is that she was a funny, feisty, generous, approachable and knowledgeable woman. Most of all, she was kind and we will miss her.

Building Community: Health and Our Outdoor Treasures

by David Bailey
President/CEO

Wellness is a goal we all strive for, even if we aren’t terribly consistent in our approach. Most of us need encouragement to participate in the activities that foster good health and wellness. Be it organized sports, a brisk walk each morning with the dog or some yoga or meditation, people need and wish for healthy living.

I spent Sunday afternoon at Carrier Park, along with hundreds of my neighbors, in pursuit of just such a healthy activity, and the chance to give back to a community I love.

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