Michelle Weitzman, the only trustee to speak publicly about employee complaints of mistreatment at the Asheville Art Museum, was removed from the museum’s board Nov. 15.
Local companies prioritize hands-on giving
Local nonprofit leaders say they’re seeing more companies prioritize volunteering and service projects rather than just giving money. They’re also seeking long-term relationships with specific organizations rather than just one-off collaborations.
Whatever it takes: Staying true to the vision
In 2020, the Organic Growers School transitioned to a lateral executive team. The move, says Cameron Farlow, the nonprofit’s executive director, has led to a more dynamic approach to leadership.
Whatever it takes: Moving out of survival mode
The nationwide shortage of direct support professionals has created many challenges for Open Hears Art Center, says Debbie Harris, the organization’s co-executive.
The rise of Indigenous land acknowledgments
Indigenous activists offer their thoughts on a trend that’s recently gathered local momentum.
Q&A: Future hopes and plans for Esther Neonatal Kitten Rescue
Xpress speaks with Andee Bingham, executive director of Esther Neonatal Kitten Rescue, about her organization’s future goals, advice she’d offer those launching a nonprofit and her favorite kitten story.
Whatever it takes: Making it work despite costs and delays
Rising costs and red tape led to many delays for Asheville Music School this year. But its executive director, Ryan Reardon, says there’s plenty to remain hopeful for come 2023.
Arts nonprofits share insights on finding success
Leaders for the two local arts nonprofits discuss their recent doings and tips on getting started in a challenging environment.
Nonprofits play essential roles at local historic sites
Members of friends groups discuss their organizations’ roles in assisting local historic sites and special collections.
Whatever it takes: Never lose hope
Despite the many challenges True Ridge has faced over the last 2 ½ years, its founder Lori Garcia-McCammon says the organization remains strong and determined to carry out its work.
Buncombe tests and tweaks Code Purple plan
As presented to the county Board of Commissioners Nov. 15 by Jennifer Teague, Buncombe’s aging and adult services program manager, the Asheville-Buncombe County Homeless Coalition called the first Code Purple of 2022 on Oct. 15 — the first day this year’s program went into effect. After evaluating the results of that first night, the coalition decided to extend entry times for Code Purple shelters.
Local service clubs face challenges recruiting younger members
Before becoming a member of the Rotary Club of Asheville this year, Skyler Duncan didn’t know much about the venerable service organization. “I remember they gave scholarships in high school and that sort of thing,” says the 30-year-old Merrill Lynch financial adviser. “My perceptions were your stereotypical ones: older members, maybe a little bit behind the times, maybe […]
Whatever it takes: Tapping into volunteer skills
Asheville Tool Library saw plenty of change in 2022, including a new location, says board member Stephanie Kane.
Green in brief: WNC Nature Center opens new exhibit
In partnership with the WNC Farmers Market, the Asheville zoo launches its Educational Farmers Market Garden starting Wednesday, Nov. 16. The new exhibit focuses on sustainable relationships between agriculture and nature.
Whatever it takes: Combatting stigmas
Stigma remains the biggest challenge for the work Amy Upham and her dedicated staff perform at Eleanor Health Foundation.
Q&A: Womansong choir sings for community causes
Xpress sits down with Jennifer Langton to discuss Womansong’s mission, the challenges women choirs face and the benefits of being a nonprofit.
Whatever it takes: Welcoming new team members
Though recent years have been challenging, Sam Ruark says Green Built Alliance has persevered and continues to find new ways to support its missions.
Q&A: The benefits of participatory grant-making
Xpress speaks with Gina Smith about food policy, shared gifting and recommendations for how other nonprofits might integrate new models of fundraising into their operations.
Council to hear Code Purple update amid freezing temperatures
If next week’s forecast is correct, overnight temperatures in Asheville will dip below freezing several times, potentially exposing those living without shelter to harsh conditions. Fittingly, members of Asheville City Council will hear an update on the city’s Code Purple program during their meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 15.
Pro bono lawyers assist Asheville’s Afghan evacuees
Jacob Oakes, who directs Pisgah Legal Services’ immigration program and manages its Afghan Asylum Project, calls the latest influx of evacuees an “unprecedented situation” and a “learning experience” due to its breadth and magnitude.
Green in brief: Wildlands Network flags WNC roads for wildlife crossings
Of the 20 North Carolina sites in the new report, six are in Western North Carolina — including the nonprofit’s No. 1 site, Interstate 40’s path through the Pigeon River Gorge.