Helping 'Littles' Reach their Dreams
As we continue to move forward into a new year and this next decade together, we're reflecting on the highlights from this past year and how we were able to collectively show up, support one another, and create a more equitable place for us all to call home. Through community volunteerism, corporate and small business sponsorship, leadership giving, and educational events, we were able to accomplish so much together, proving the impact we can have when we choose to Live United.
Before I write another word, I want to thank you for your belief in the power of community and in United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County.
As your new President and CEO, I’ve spent my first six months on the job meeting as many volunteers, donors and community leaders as possible. I wanted to hear first-hand what you value about our United Way and hope we’ll take on in the years ahead.
We were proud to support a request from a coalition of organizations to help bring SaulPaul and Bianca Neal to speak with youth and adults alike in our community. SaulPaul is an award-winning musician, speaker and author, and Bianca Neal is an award-winning filmmaker and facilitator around issues related to restorative justice.
There's usually a lot of smack talk, and a whole lot of fun at the Asheville City - Buncombe County Public Services Chili Cookoff and this year was no different. Good food, good people and proceeds benefit our work in the community.
Brandon Morgan
Joseph Silberman
Joseph Silberman
Thanks to Women United, Kudzu Brands, and all of the wonderful volunteers from businesses, organizations, and communities throughout Buncombe County who came together at Highland Brewing Company to wrap donated books for our 7th Annual Holiday Book Drive. And special thanks to Capstone Health Alliance and Barnes & Noble on Tunnel Road in Asheville for their sponsorship support.
Every year, volunteers roll up their sleeves and dig in to tackle impactful projects that support local community nonprofits and schools addressing critical needs. This year's Days of Impact showed us once again how powerful a group of committed citizens, dedicating a few hours of their time, can be. More than 460 volunteers from 38 local businesses and organizations shared their time and talents this year, helping to address critical community needs at 25 nonprofits throughout Buncombe County.
The choice to serve our nation through military service is not something to be taken lightly. The sacrifices made by the men and women who serve, and by those that love them are profound and we hope that today, and every day, you feel our appreciation.
On this Veterans Day, we look forward to the day when sacrifices like these are far and few between.
The Fall Convening of the Asheville Buncombe Middle Grades Network was held at UNC Asheville on October 24, 2019. This annual event brought together more than 140 community members, families and students representing Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools, and a host of health, social service, youth services and higher education community partners.