“If you drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike in Pisgah National Forest or on the Appalachian Trail, visit Mount Mitchell or the high elevations of the Smokies, you will find yourself in this forest, and you should know how singular it is.”
The battle is joined: The Gospel According to Jerry
“There is still time for bureaucratic bungling to derail these developments. I urge the leaders of our little kingdom not to stifle this impetus and dam the amazing flow of the River District by imposing needless barriers in the name of enforcing the mantra of St. Wilma Dykeman.”
Beyond stereotypes: portrait of the rural mountain community of Spillcorn
“White, rural communities like Spillcorn are ignored at the risk of misunderstanding their agency and influence in America today.”
Little miracles: Look now for spring ephemeral wildflowers
“In April, a lush carpet of green emerges from the forest floor, and an astonishing array of flowers opens to the bright sunshine.”
Tending the teenage fire: Rites of passage can help boys enter world of adults
“For millennia, in societies around the world, elders and adults have known how to spot the signs of a teenager ready for initiation. But today in America, even though boys haven’t stopped reaching the age when their inner fire wells up, we are failing to meet them where they’re at with a rite of passage.”
The great threat: The Gospel According to Jerry
“The newcomers worshipped at the feet of the Right Rev. Wilma Dykeman, a local deity whose writings took on the prominence and influence of the Holy Grail.”
Billy Graham: An old soldier fades away
“Graham gave his blessing to every conflict under every president from Truman to the second Bush, and most of the presidents, pleased to enjoy public assurance of God’s approval, made him welcome in the White House.”
The surprising health benefits of WNC’s fermented foods
“Here’s to celebrating this important and diverse technique of food production in hopes that its products continue to proliferate locally for the health and well-being of everyone.”
Physicians must recognize that they need care, too
“We must first transform our culture to embrace the human side of medical providers, with all their vulnerabilities, and remember that physicians’ lives hold value and meaning separate from the role they play as care providers.”
A mentoring choice that made all the difference
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC’s motto is ‘Start Something Big’ because of the astronomical potential that can be unlocked in young people when they have a mentor who believes in them.”
Canines may be losing ground in Dog City
“I backed myself up and saw it, a sign on the door reading: ‘Therapy Dogs, Emotional Support Dogs and Pets, not allowed inside per Federal/NC State Law. Thank you for your cooperation.’ Uh-oh.”
Give the gift that can change a life: volunteer
“Research confirms the long-term positive effects that mentoring can have on vulnerable children and recognizes that parents and teachers cannot provide all the help most at-risk children need to reach their full potential.”
Helping people with intellectual disabilities take part in the community
“The Adult Day Activities Program is very excited for all of these opportunities that they have had to meet new folks and to become a part of the community in which they live.”
Ramp allows bingo lover to live at home
“A beautifully built ramp, 80 feet in total, will effectively keep these two ladies living at home for years to come.”
Learning from the rich history of YWCA Asheville
“By learning from our rich history and honoring the women who fought for gender, racial and social justice here in Asheville, we are challenged to live up to that legacy every day.”
A victory for health care via housing
“In the world of HIV treatment, we have a saying: ‘Housing is health care.’ What it means is that it is very difficult to link people living with HIV/AIDS to health care if they do not have stable housing.”
Helping a father prepare for his daughter’s future care
“For more than a decade, Mission Health and Pisgah Legal Services have worked together through the HEALS Project, a special medical-legal partnership that addresses critical legal issues that impact the health of low-income patients.”
Supporting community through Southside Arts & Agricultural Center
“The purpose of the Southside Arts & Agricultural Center project is to support healing, restoring and reclaiming community culture; support emerging leaders; grow food; and incubate economic development.”
Moving from homelessness to stability and a better life
“Our brightest moment is when we move someone out of homelessness and their life changes for the better. Michelle is a great example of this.”
Inspired to take a chance on Oreo
“Hope, not heartache, inspired Brandy to take a chance on Oreo, and hope is what motivates us to keep fighting for our most vulnerable pets.”
Teaching parents about caring for kids with mental health issues
“People with mental health issues can lead full, meaningful lives. Treatment works. Recovery happens. The purpose of NAMI WC is support, education and advocacy.”