EdNC: Helene Recovery at Owen Middle
The work of one United Way community school in the Swannanoa Valley during and after Helene
by Caroline Parker EdNC | Sept 25, 2025
“When you see all the things that happened last year, you know people are like, ‘It’s just unbelievable.’ And I’m like, it’s absolutely believable. We knew we could do it. You just hope you never have to be put to that test.”
Bradley McMahan, Principal at C.D. Owen Middle School
Celebrating the Worleys
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Thu, 09/25/2025 - 3:13pm
One Year Later: United Way's Role In Helene Recovery Efforts
As we mark the first anniversary of Hurricane Helene's impact on our community, we wanted to revisit some of the ways your contributions of funds, materials, or time have enabled us to support our community.
Thank you all for your efforts!
Tocqueville Community Service Award: Celebrating Dianne and David Worley
Each year, we gather to honor a Tocqueville member for their contributions to Unit
Backpacks in Every Corner of Buncombe County
Thanks to your generosity and the incredible work of our volunteers, thousands of fully stocked backpacks made their way into the hands of students all across Buncombe County—and even beyond. From big distribution events to smaller neighborhood gatherings, every delivery meant one thing: students starting the school year with confidence and care.
A Special Thanks to Our Block Party Volunteers
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Wed, 09/03/2025 - 9:35am
Block Party 2025 was everything we hoped it would be—joyful, energetic, and deeply connected to our community. There was an unseen force that helped to make the day shine. That force was the incredible volunteers who gave their time, energy, and heart to bring it all together.
Block Party in Photos: Scroll through the Gallery
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Wed, 08/27/2025 - 4:28pm
On Friday, August 22, Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville came alive as United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County hosted the annual United for Youth Block Party. The event brought together more than 75 community partners, families, and hundreds of young people for a day of music, games, and connection—all centered on uplifting youth and the trusted, caring adults who support them....
What is the NC Community Schools Coalition?
Aug 19, 2025 EdNC -- This article outlines the growing presence of the community school strategy across North Carolina, and the very real improvements that are being seen in our communities. The article provides a solid overview of the work and two features about work underway in Vance County and Owen Middle School right here in Buncombe County.