In their own words: 2026 Community Impact Awardees
Every year, we pause to celebrate the people and partners who inspire us to do and be better. On May 14, we did just that. With a crowd of almost 200 people from across our community, we honored just a few of the many incredible people we have the honor of working with. Below are the videos each awardee filmed prior to the event — an opportunity to share a bit about what inspires them to stay connected and give back to our community.
Volunteers have always been the lifeblood of United Way and for so many of our partners. This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and an extraordinary commitment to our community.
This award recognizes a business that is ‘all-in’ in its support of the community and United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, generating impact through its financial investments, employee engagement, and volunteer participation.
Established in 2017, the Women United Award honors a member of the giving society for exceptional commitment to United Way’s mission. Renamed in 2018 as the “Women United Taylor Foss Award,” it celebrates the group’s founder and Taylor’s lasting legacy.
This award recognizes a nonprofit professional for their extraordinary leadership, creativity, and compassion during a pivotal moment in their organization, our collective history, or over the course of their career.
This award honors individuals or groups whose leadership and passion improve lives in our community—now and for future generations—especially those advocating for diversity, respect, creativity, or innovation.
This award recognizes an individual or business who embraces United Way’s Guiding Principles and the community school strategy by demonstrating outstanding leadership in improving systems for equitable student learning and educational excellence.