It is with heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of our dear friend and cherished community member Darryl Hart. Darryl gave years of selfless service to United Way for the benefit of our community, always empowering and including others with patience and kindness. He was a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and became the owner of Hart Funeral Service after the passing of his father Mr. Osborne Hart.
Darryl joined the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County board in 1991 and served as a member continuously through 2011, dedicating himself to two decades of service. During those twenty years, he served in so many different roles-- as Chair of the Minority Involvement Council, as Chair of the Needs Assessment, as a Strategic Planning member, as a member of the Executive Committee and Capital Campaign amongst other roles. As board chair in 2004 and 2005, our organization raised nearly $5.5 million dollars and invested over $4 million in local nonprofits. It was also a critical time for our organization as we transitioned from First Call for Help to 211, the growth of our volunteer center into Hands On Asheville-Buncombe, changes to our funding model, and adoption of Middle School Success into what we now know as Community Schools. His steadfast support helped strengthen the foundations of our work and allowed us to evolve into the organization we are today.
Thank you for your commitment to our community. Rest In Peace friend.
