The week of December 11th marked a great return for United for Youth, as the group reconvened for the first time since Hurricane Helene. Hosted by United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County staff Dr. Sarah Nuñez and Jo Jamison, the two gatherings brought together dedicated leaders and community members, all focused on advancing the Bold Community Goal: By 2035, all Buncombe County and Asheville City students graduate high school fully ready to pursue their goals and dreams.
At the heart of every meeting was the question that united everyone in the room: How are our kids?
The first meeting was the United for Youth Leadership Team session, facilitated by several team members. It served as a touchpoint for discussions around visioning and strategy, setting the stage for deeper conversations to continue in the coming months. These conversations are also planned to include local, state, and national policies that could affect students and the many community organizations that work to advance youth success. This collaborative leadership approach highlights the collective commitment to addressing emerging needs, adapting strategies, and centering youth in every decision.
The second meeting was the open-to-all monthly United for Youth Meet-Up and Work Session, where seats were filled with grassroots leaders, case managers, non-profit staff members, and local government employees all ready to be back to sharing resources and connecting. In this larger space, the group focused on how Hurricane Helene has shifted the needs of our community and its students.
Key discussions highlighted the profound impact of recent events on education and community infrastructure. Buncombe County experienced significant challenges, with seven buildings suffering substantial damage and 1,210 students classified as McKinney-Vento students—those experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
Educators and community organizations shared critical insights, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. Asheville City Schools representatives discussed innovative approaches, such as bridge learning programs and additional tutoring hours made possible by grants. The meetings underscored the essential role of school systems in community infrastructure and the need for flexible, supportive educational environments.
Social and emotional support emerged as a primary concern. Community organizations recognized the importance of addressing students' holistic needs, particularly in the wake of traumatic events like Hurricane Helene. Discussions also touched on practical challenges, including the ongoing rental crisis and potential barriers within school systems. These first meetings since Hurricane Helene provided a way for people to check in on each other and other areas of our community and keep the conversation centered on our youth and their families.
From deep conversations on emerging needs to resource-sharing in small groups, it was clear: United for Youth remains dedicated to ensuring every young person in our community can achieve their full potential.
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