Nonprofits recovered from a volunteer drop-off during COVID and found they can do more with less.
New Stories
Whatever it takes: Serving the region’s homeless animals
“It’s thanks to the 600-plus volunteers at Brother Wolf that we’re able to forever change so many animals’ lives,” says Leah Craig Chumbley, executive director of Brother Wolf Animal Rescue.
Buncombe commissioners consider new contract with WastePro
As part of a potential contract extension, WastePro is proposing an almost $3 increase to $25.16 per month to continue its existing services. Customers currently pay $22.55 monthly.
Pisgah Legal Services Executive Director Jim Barrett’s exit interview
Barrett spoke with Xpress about how he has avoided burnout, his advice to young lawyers and North Carolina’s problem with “legal deserts.”
Behind the scenes of ‘A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas’
The annual holiday extravaganza returns for its seventh year, Nov. 24-Dec. 21.
Whatever it takes: Addressing racism and justice
“Both collaborations with the Vance Birthplace and the Mountain History and Culture Group have been the purest representations of the work we want to do, existing in the intersection of art and activism,” says Aaron Snook, co-founder and curator of America Myth Center
Council delays vote on Arden development
Asheville City Council voted unanimously Nov. 14 to postpone a vote on a proposed 279-unit apartment complex in Arden over concerns around a shortage of family-sized units and lack of renewable energy. The project was unable to get a formal recommendation to Council from the Planning and Zoning Commission at its Oct. 4 meeting; however, the developer asked to continue with the zoning approval process.
WTF: Housing vouchers and assistance programs
Finding affordable housing has become a formidable challenge for many Asheville residents. However, housing vouchers can bring rent down to a manageable amount. In the latest edition of Xpress’ WTF feature – short for “Want the Facts?” – we explore the application process and eligibility requirements for housing vouchers and other forms of housing assistance.
Whatever it takes: The benefits of talking to local farmers
“Many first-time market shoppers can find the experience overwhelming or intimidating, so I would offer the suggestion of walking around the market first to get a sense of what’s available and make a plan for what you want to buy,” says Molly Nicholie, executive director of ASAP.
Celesa Willett of United Way of Haywood County discusses Canton mill closing, other challenges
With just two full-time employees, United Way of Haywood County has met some big community needs in recent years. In 2021, the Waynesville-based nonprofit received more than $1 million in donations to help those affected by devastating flooding in the wake of Tropical Storm Fred. United Way funneled money to groups like WNC Communities for […]
Whatever it takes: Community support is essential
“Asheville Humane Society relies heavily on community support,” says Mabel Lujan, the organization’s communications manager. “From donations to fostering to suggesting us as a spot to grow your family, our caring community members provide the backbone to allow us to care for as many animals as we can.
12 Baskets Café’s arts programs build community
The nonprofit’s writing, craft and visual arts groups forge a strong sense of belonging among participants.
Anne Chesky on the opening of the Asheville Museum of History
“We are a space people can contemplate how our history affects our lives today,” says Anne Chesky, executive director of the Asheville Museum of History.
Whatever it takes: In support of the LGBTQIA+ community
“We definitely could use additional support from major donors, as well as institutional support from funders to ensure we are showing up in the ways our community needs,” says Amy Upham, executive director of Blue Ridge Pride.
Whatever it takes: Becoming a nonprofit
“Gaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit status has opened the market to new funding sources that we didn’t have access to before, while connecting us to the community in new ways,” says Lyric Antio, market director of the RAD Farmers Market
Local leaders: Reduce Buncombe’s tourism marketing budget
“I did not realize that we were so far ahead of everybody else in North Carolina,” said state Sen. Julie Mayfield, D-Buncombe. “All of these other cities do a great job of marketing themselves, and they don’t spend as much money as we do.”