The Community Impact Award Dinner is a cherished tradition on the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County calendar. Each year provides an opportunity to recognize the people, organizations, and businesses that pour their hearts into building a stronger, more connected community.

This year’s event was especially meaningful. It marked the first time we’ve gathered in this way since Hurricane Helene reshaped so much of our daily lives. In the wake of the storm, so many in the room have been operating at full capacity—planting seeds of hope, recovery, and resilience in every corner of Buncombe County.

The dinner was a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate. It was about appreciation and honor, and connecting across sectors to recognize the shared work of tending to our community’s needs. There’s something deeply joyful about seeing our partners, neighbors, and friends in the same space—laughing, sharing, and reconnecting.

One of the most moving moments came when Aisha Sheppard invited everyone to lean over and meet someone new using two simple prompts. The room buzzed with laughter and conversation as strangers became new connections. That spirit of intentional connection—that’s what UWABC is all about. It’s how we sow the seeds of a more united, collaborative Buncombe County.

Each year, we honor individuals and organizations who embody key areas of our mission. Their contributions represent the roots of change, and without them, our community simply wouldn’t be the same.

Together, we are planting the seeds of lasting impact. Thank you for growing with us.

A BIG Thank You to this year's presenting sponsor, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty!

Allen Foiles

Hands On Volunteer of the Year Award

Allen Foiles is the 2025 Hands On Asheville-Buncombe Volunteer of the Year for his extraordinary dedication to service since 2019, contributing hundreds of volunteer hours across a wide range of efforts. A humble and trusted leader, Allen supports everything from packing school supplies and literacy events to major community celebrations like the United for Youth Block Party. He plays a vital role in connecting individuals in recovery to volunteer opportunities through his work with FIRST at Blue Ridge, and has remained a steady presence in crisis—volunteering every weekend with the Salvation Army since April 2020. Whether organizing fundraisers, supporting disaster response, coaching adaptive tennis, or serving on local committees, Allen leads with joy, purpose, and a deep belief in collective care, education, and mentorship, making him a true cornerstone of our community.

Tanger Outlets

Spirit of the Mountains Award 

Tanger Outlets was recognized for this award because its workforce exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner. Their team consistently goes beyond financial contributions, using company-provided volunteer hours to serve local youth, respond to urgent needs, and stand alongside neighbors with heart and hands. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, they deepened their commitment with additional support, reinforcing their dedication to the people of Buncombe County when it was needed most. Tanger Outlets models what it looks like when a business fully invests its time, energy, and resources into the community it calls home.

Debra Campbell

Taylor Foss Women United Award 

Debra is recognized for her extraordinary leadership, steady presence, and deep care for the people of Asheville. As a longtime board member, generous donor, and inaugural co-chair of the United for Youth Leadership Team, she has helped shape a more connected, opportunity-filled future for local youth. Through pivotal moments—including the pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene—Debra has been a voice of clarity, compassion, and resilience. Her quiet courage, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting legacy on United Way and the broader community.

Norma Duran Brown

Circle of Hope Award 

For years, Norma has been a trusted partner to United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, leading with humility, heart, and an unwavering commitment to equity and justice. Through her leadership of UNETE, she has built powerful, trust-based relationships and created programs that support families and students with culturally rooted education, mentorship, and connection. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, she quickly shifted focus to meet urgent needs, ensuring Latino families had access to food, water, resources, and vital information. Norma’s work is a calling—one that has transformed communities, empowered youth, and strengthened collective impact across Buncombe County.

Christine W. Avery Learning Center

Live United Award

The Christine Avery Learning Center (CWA), under the bold and compassionate leadership of Kyla Morton and Jasmine Bright, is a model of community-rooted innovation and care. CWA ensures access to high-quality early learning, afterschool, and summer programs—particularly for children from historically marginalized communities—while cultivating a listening culture where children, families, and staff help shape its direction. In response to the devastation of Hurricane Helene, Kyla and Jasmine led the restoration and launch of the new Valley Campus in Swannanoa, transforming loss into opportunity. Through initiatives like S.T.A.R.S., workforce internships, and early learning programs, CWA supports academic success, confidence, and leadership. Their impact extends beyond CWA, with both leaders helping to guide United Way’s Community Investment Committee and serving on the United for Youth Leadership Team, ensuring youth across Buncombe County have every opportunity to thrive.

Bradley McMahan

Gamechanger Award 

Bradley’s leadership at Owen Middle School exemplifies the heart of the Community School Strategy—rooted in his unwavering belief in public education and the power of community. He puts students at the center of every decision while uplifting the adults who support them, fostering strong relationships and a thriving school culture. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Bradley remained a steady, reliable presence, ensuring Owen remained a safe, supportive, and academically strong environment. He has stewarded resources with integrity, expanded after-school clubs, tutoring, and enrichment opportunities, and championed both the arts and athletics. His inclusive, community-driven approach has made Owen Middle a powerful example of what a Community School can and should be.