We had a great time seeing everyone on August 24th at Green Man Brewery's GreenMansion!
Social Networking.... with a purpose.
After everyone had a chance to mix and mingle, Lisa Riggsbee, Healthy Living Manager of Nutrition Programs at the YMCA of Western NC, shared how nutrition affects us all. From early onset diabetes to obesity, the YMCA is committed to improving the health and well-being of community members though their Nutrition Outreach Programs.
To combat some of the nutrition issues they see in Buncombe County, the YMCA launched the Healthy Living Mobile Kitchen (HLMK), a converted 72 passenger bus with a full working kitchen; a first of its kind among YMCA's across America. The HLMK is a mobile effort that seeks to eliminate hunger and food insecurity in our community. It provides free food and nutritional education so families feel empowered to make healthier choices. Currently the HLMK serves neighborhoods in Buncombe County that are impoverished or have limited access to healthy eating options. United Way's Middle School Success Initiative often brings the Mobile Kitchen to community events at our three locations (Enka, Erwin and Asheville Middle Schools).
Giving Back
We didn't send our guest speaker back empty handed. Everyone in attendance brought pasta to donate to the YMCA's Healthy Living Mobile Kitchen. Because of your generosity we collected nearly 60 boxes of whole wheat pasta for our neighbors. Thank you!
And thank you to our Highlands Circle members who brought a friend. Sharing the story about our work and partnerships in the community while having a great time meeting new people is a big part of what Highlands Circle is all about. We hope you enjoyed your evening, learned a few things and we look forward to seeing you again soon.