Buncombe County’s more than 1,600 nonprofits have faced a series of challenges in recent years — the Great Recession, the “new normal,” and changes to private, local, state and federal funding. In the wake of those upheavals, some organizations have closed their doors (most recently, Three Streams Family Health Center and Listening Hearts Crisis Center, for example). Others have thrived, like OnTrack, which helps residents navigate financial challenges, or the Asheville Buncombe Christian Ministry, which has seen its outreach programs and its budget more than double in the last few years. Some have found creative ways to adjust, such as combining resources with other groups.
The leaders and volunteers of these organizations are, generally, an optimistic bunch, always looking for those silver linings or new approaches.
Xpress queried the representatives of several local nonprofits about the financial challenges and their outlook for the future. Listed below, you’ll find a sampling of the responses. Stay tuned for upcoming stories, and go to mountain.com/nonprofits for the latest news.
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County
Services rely on the kindness of its community
Women for Women
“Giving circle” reaches far and wide in WNC
Asheville Humane Society, Animal Compassion Network
Two prominent local animal shelters join forces
Homeward Bounds
Organization grows by leaps and …
The Community Foundation of WNC
Spreading assistance across the region
OnTrack
Helping others navigate the financial waters
WNC Medical Society
Preps for the worst, hopes for the best
Pisgah Legal Services
Potential state and federal cuts could mean big reduction in domestic-violence services
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