PUBLISHER
Jeff Fobes
GIVE!LOCAL COORDINATION
Lisa Watters
Mark Murphy
DESIGNERS
Olivia Urban
Scott Southwick
COVER PHOTO by Seyl Park courtesy of The Pisgah Conservancy
ADMINISTRATION
Lisa Watters
Mark Murphy
Caitlin Donovan
EDITOR
Tracy Rose
WEB
Brandon Tilley
DISTRIBUTION
Susan Hutchinson and the MX team of drivers
The Give!Local Guide is published by Mountain Xpress
P.O. Box 144 Asheville, NC 28802 828.251.1333 Copyright 2025
November 1 - December 31
Give thanks, give local ... and have fun doing it!
While some of us may be able to look back on the massive impact Tropical Storm Helene had on our community as a bad dream we’d sooner forget, many others don’t have that luxury. Our greater community is still very much struggling with the ongoing effects of that disaster — and that’s why we again encourage our readers who are in a position to help to join forces and dig deep. By giving together, we can make a difference!
Every one of the nonprofits in this guide is locally based and locally focused — and they all could use our help. Please consider giving to as many of these deserving nonprofits as possible. You can also help by spreading the word about Give!Local and thanking the campaign’s sponsors. It takes community to make community.
Remember that every penny counts, thanks to First Bank, with help from Basys and Mountain Xpress, which are covering all the costs of credit card service fees. 100% of your donation goes to the nonprofits of your choice.
Raise funds and awareness for 52 worthy local nonprofits while making philanthropy simple, fun and rewarding, no matter how small or large the gift.
Offer a single platform that makes end-of-year giving easy with a shopping cart that allows donors to direct a single gift, whether for $5 or thousands of dollars, to just one or to many Give!Local nonprofits.
THANK YOU!
GIVE!LOCAL would not be what it is without the support of our sponsors.
as well as Basys, Mostly Import Auto Repair and Mountain Xpress. We could not do it without you.
Learn about this year’s 52 participating nonprofits. All of which are listed in this handy print guide, as well as on the Give!Local website at givelocalguide.org. Learn about their missions and how they are helping make this a better community.
• The minimum donation amount is $5.
• Give!Local is a web-based giving project, but if you prefer to fill out a paper form and write a check instead, that’s fine! There is a paper form on page 9 of this print guide. Paying by check saves processing fees — so please consider coordinating with us for large donations by calling Xpress at 828-251-1333.
• You can give more than once, but be sure to use the same username and email so we can combine the total of your gifts.
• Your contact information will only be given to the nonprofits you donate to. If you do not wish to be contacted by them, there is an opt-out check box when you donate.
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Go to givelocalguide.org and get started, or fill out page 9 and mail it in.
3
Decide which nonprofits you want to give to and how much.
As you make your selections, Give!Local’s shopping cart will keep track of your allocations. Before you check out, you will have an opportunity to adjust those amounts.
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Check out and pay with a credit card. Every penny of your donation goes to the nonprofits you designate — a big thank-you to First Bank, Basys and Mountain Xpress for covering all creditcard fees!
NOV. 1DEC. 31
This form is provided for your convenience if online giving is not your preference.
EMAIL * ARE YOU UNDER 13 YEARS OLD?
* Required Information Yes No
Asheville Poverty Initiative
Haywood Street
Congregation
Helpmate
Our Voice
Pisgah Legal Services
REACH of Haywood County
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries (WCRM)
EcoForesters
MountainTrue
RiverLink
Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
The Pisgah Conservancy
Asheville City Schools Foundation
Asheville Museum of Science
Buncombe Partnership for Children
Caring for Children
Children First/ Communities in Schools
Helping At Risk Kids (HARK)
Mountain Child Advocacy Center
OpenDoors Asheville
Read to Succeed
Asheville/Buncombe (R2S)
Verner Center for Early Learning
Appalachian Wildlife Refuge
Asheville Humane Society
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
Friends of the WNC Nature Center
Friends2Ferals
Mountain Pet
Rescue Asheville
Sarge’s Animal
Rescue Foundation
Bountiful Cities
Bounty & Soul
Equal Plates Project (EPP)
Loving Food Resources
Meals on Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County
Root Cause Farm
Asheville Area
Habitat for Humanity
Blue Ridge Public Radio
Eblen Charities
Firefly Gathering
Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing (FIRE)
Homeward Bound
LEAF Global Arts
Literacy Together
The Mediation Center
Working Wheels
HEALTH & WELLNESS
All Souls Counseling Center
Babies Need Bottoms Council on Aging of Buncombe County
Jewish Family Services of WNC
NAMI Western Carolina
St. Gerard Center for Autism
Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness
On the lines to the left of each nonprofit’s name, indicate how much you would like to donate to that group. Add all donations together and fill in your total donation amount. If you do not indicate which nonprofits you want your donation to go to, Mountain Xpress, at its discretion, will give your donation to one or more Give!Local nonprofits. TOTAL DONATION $ THANK YOU!
Billing Address
As always, in the spirit of Give!Local’s mission to make philanthropy fun and rewarding, this year’s participating nonprofits have called on their reliable partners and their own resources to offer additional goodies and donation boosters to help you flex your giving muscles.
The offers are divided into three categories: Matches are additional monies that your donation can earn for the organizations. Incentives include membership benefits, clothing, food, drink and other goodies to add to your sweet rewards. Drawings are opportunities to win exciting prizes.
Appalachian Wildlife Refuge:
• All donations will be matched, up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters.
Asheville Humane Society:
• Donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters.
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue:
• An anonymous donor is matching the first $10,000 in Give!Local donations to Brother Wolf.
Buncombe Partnership for Children:
• All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $5,000, by generous donors.
Caring for Children:
• Thanks to an anonymous donor, any donation of $250 or more will be matched, up to a total of $5,000.
Eblen Charities:
• The first $10,000 in donations will be matched by Mission Health.
EcoForesters:
• EcoForesters has secured matching funding for the first $10,000 raised.
Equal Plates Project:
• The first $2,500 in donations will be matched, thanks to our generous donor, Edward Kolesar.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
Friends of the WNC Nature Center:
• Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $2,500, thanks to Loti Woods and Dale Weiler on behalf of Champions for Wildlife.
Friends2Ferals:
• All donations will be matched, up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters.
Haywood Street Congregation:
• All donations will be matched, up to a total of $5,000.
Helping At Risk Kids (HARK):
• One generous donor will match the first $5,000 in donations.
• Another generous donor also will match donations, up to $1,000 total.
Homeward Bound of WNC:
• All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, by anonymous donors.
Jewish Family Services of WNC:
• Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, the first $10,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar.
Loving Food Resources:
• An anonymous donor is matching the first $1,000 in donations.
Meals on Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County:
• Deerfield Charitable Foundation will match all gifts, up to a total of $5,000.
Mountain Child Advocacy Center:
• All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $25,500, by generous anonymous donors.
Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville:
• All donations, up to a total of $5,000, will be generously matched by two anonymous donors, thereby tripling those gifts.
Western Carolina:
• A generous donor will match the first $1,000 of donations.
OpenDoors Asheville:
• All donations, up to a total of $10,000, will be generously matched by an anonymous donor.
Pisgah Legal Services:
• All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, thanks to Marie Bauer.
REACH of Haywood County:
• Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $60,000, thanks to the Flora T. Webb Trust.
Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe:
• The first $1,500 donated will be matched by an anonymous donor.
Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation:
• All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $10,000, by an anonymous donor.
Southern Appalachian Higlands Conservancy:
• Wicked Weed Brewing will match all gifts, up to a total of $10,000.
Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness:
• The first $5,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar by one of Sunrise’s supporters.
• All donations will be matched, up to a total of $10,000.
• An anonymous donor will match the first $20,000 contributed to The Pisgah Conservancy.
• The first $10,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.
• The first $10,000 in donations will be matched.
• Anyone who donates $250 or more will receive a professional 11-by-14-inch matted print of wildlife.
• Anyone who donates $1,000 or more will receive a beautiful suncatcher featuring wildlife, plus get a plaque with their name on it hung in our facility.
• Anyone who donates $2,500 or more will have a stepping stone installed at our facility that’s engraved with their name or an honoree of their choosing, plus be added to our annual report under our new major supporters section.
• When you donate $25 or more, you will receive a card for one complimentary High Five beverage, redeemable at any High Five location.
• Donors of $25 or more receive a free ticket to the Asheville Museum of Science.
• Donors of $50–$249 receive a free ticket to the museum and an AMOS T-shirt.
• Donors of $250–$499 receive a free family membership to the museum with unlimited visits for a year.
• Donors of $500 or more receive a private, behindthe-scenes tour with an AMOS educator for up to six guests, plus a family membership to the museum.
• Anyone who donates $25 or more receives a Babies Need Bottoms sticker.
• Those who give $50 or more will get a Babies Need Bottoms “Partner in Change” window cling.
• Anyone who donates $75 or more receives a Babies Need Bottoms car magnet.
• Those who donate $50 or more get their choice of an EcoForesters hat or shirt.
• The first 50 donors to donate $25 or more will receive an exclusive Firefly Gathering sticker.
• Donors of $25 or more will receive a free day pass to the Nature Center.
• Donors of $50 or more will receive the above, plus an enamel Nature Center Centennial lapel pin.
• Donors of $100 or more will receive all the above, plus an animal sticker drawn by a local artist and a wooden Nature Center Centennial ornament.
• Donors of $250 or more will receive all the above, plus an invitation to our special engagement, Tea & Turtles, and will be entered to win a chance for two people to visit on habitat with red panda Phoenix.
• Donors of $500 or more will receive all the above, plus a private guided tour of the Nature Center with animal enrichment for two people.
• Those who donate $20 or more will receive a $5 coupon to Patton Avenue Pet Co.
• The first 10 donors giving $75 or more will receive an item of their choosing of Haywood Street merch (multiple styles of hats and T-shirts are available; visit website to view samples).
• The first 10 donors giving $150 or more will receive a swag bag containing a Holy Chaos T-shirt, The Haywood Street Fresco book, a bookmark and stickers.
• Hi-Wire Brewing will offer a free pint of beer to anyone who donates $25 or more.
• Donors who give $50-$99 will receive a $5 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe.
• Donors who give $100 and up will receive a $15 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe. (Coupons will be available for pickup at Malaprop’s one week after donations are processed. They will be redeemable for in-store purchases at Malaprop’s through the end of February and need to be used in one visit.)
• All donors receive a Native Plants guide.
• The first 25 donors of $50 or more receive a $10 gift card to Twisted Laurel.
• Those who donate $250-$499 will receive a possum pin (while supplies last).
• Donors giving $500 or more will receive a possum pin and a MountainTrue Hellbender beanie (both while supplies last).
• The first 10 donors will each receive a Pisgah Legal Services mug.
• Donors of $100 or more will receive a $20 coupon to use at our resale store, Within Reach.
• All donors receive a free R2S sticker.
• Wicked Weed Brewing will provide $10 gift cards to its downtown pub to those who give $250 or more.
• All donors will receive a St. Gerard Center sticker.
• Donors of $25 or more will receive a personally decorated thank-you card from a Feed the Need program participant.
• Donors of $100 or more will receive the above incentives plus a St. Gerard T-shirt.
• Donors who contribute $100 or more to The Pisgah Conservancy will receive a patch or tote bag.
• Participants who donate at least $100 will have their names put into a drawing for one grand prize of a gift basket, which contains $125 worth of gift cards and a journal.
• Everyone who donates will be entered into a drawing for a free pass for two guests to join a regularly scheduled yoga hike with Asheville Wellness Tours.
• Anyone who donates $50 or more will be entered into a drawing to participate in a wild release (with up to four people), which will be featured on our Facebook and Instagram accounts.
• All donors will be entered into a drawing to win one of two $50 ReStore gift cards.
• Everyone who donates $100 or more will be entered to win one of these standout experiences or bundles:
• Doughnuts with the Diaper Bankers — a private, behind-the-scenes warehouse tour with fresh local doughnuts, storytelling and a hands-on volunteer moment.
• Asheville Love Basket — a curated gift basket featuring locally made treats and self-care items.
• Everyone who donates will be entered into a drawing for a party pack provided by Crumbl Cookies.
• Donors giving $25 or more are entered into a drawing to win a basket full of Eblen Charities goodies.
• Donors of $100-$299 will be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Firefly gift certificate, valid for Perennial Workshops or the Annual Gathering.
• Donors of $300-$499 will be entered into a raffle to win one full pass (plus on-site parking) to the 2026 Firefly Gathering and a Firefly T-shirt of their choice (a $500-plus value).
• Donors of $500 or more will be entered into a raffle to win two full passes (plus on-site parking) to the 2026 Firefly Gathering (a $900-plus value).
• Donors who give $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a Trader Joe’s gift basket.
• Those who donate $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win lunch and a wine tasting for eight from Metro Wines.
• Donors who give $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a gift basket of gift certificates from Mother Ocean Seafood Market, Mangum Pottery, Wood Tiger Healing Art massage, Crust Never Sleeps bakery, Studio Chavarria hair salon and Michael Hofman porcelain studios.
• Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a raffle for a gift basket featuring selections from local breweries.
• Donors who give $250 or more will be entered into a raffle for a customized dining experience at an Asheville restaurant.
• Donors of $25 or more will be entered into a drawing for a LEAF Benefactor Membership (valued at $250), which includes:
• Retreat and festival early access (on Thursday).
• Members Coffee House invitation (Sunday morning during events).
• Elfhaven Childcare early registration.
• VIP parking pass for retreat and festival.
• A behind-the-scenes tour of LEAF Retreat or LEAF Festival.
• 10% off merchandise at LEAF Global Arts Downtown.
• Donations of $25 or more will be entered into a raffle for a $50 gift card to Black Bear Pizza.
• Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a raffle to win a gift basket full of local products worth more than $300.
• Donors giving $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Second Gear gift card.
• Donations of $50 or more will be entered into a draw ing for a NAMI swag bag.
• Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a draw ing for a swag bag from a local business.
• Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate to Still Point Wellness.
• Donations of $250 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a $250 gift certificate to Dog & Pony Show and a drawing for a $100 gift certificate to Still Point Wellness.
• The first 25 donors of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for a rain barrel, complete with installation video.
• Anyone who donates will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Fine Arts Theatre and a complimentary popcorn.
• Donors of $25 or more will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to Gypsy Queen Cuisine, Gan Shan or Nine Mile.
• Donors of $50 or more will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift certificate from Netty Byrnes Jewelry Design.
Donors of $100 or more will be entered into a draw -
Asheville Poverty Initiative dismantles stereotypes, reduces fear and empowers hope through telling stories across socioeconomic differences. A steadfast presence for over a decade, we build community and educate about poverty from our community center at the intersection of State Street and Haywood Road in West Asheville. Our programs, 12 Baskets Café and Realities of Poverty, prioritize inclusivity, abundance and dignity to address hunger, housing and poverty. Everyone has, and everyone has needs. Come for the food, stay for the community.
“At 12 Baskets Cafe, everyone is welcomed to the table. The café is a place where neighbors — housed and unhoused, volunteers and patrons, friends old and new — can come together to share food, dignity and community.”
ashevillepovertyinitiative.org • 828-222-0393
Haywood Street Congregation pursues its mission — “Relationship, above all else” — through programs that help address challenges related to homelessness and poverty, including:
• Downtown Welcome Table, a free community meal serving 500-plus plates weekly.
• Haywood Street Respite, where unhoused adults can stay following a health crisis to recuperate and connect with primary care, mental health care and other needed supports.
• Haywood Street Community Development, developing deeply affordable housing designed with dignity and built for belonging.
• A community garden, art ministry and other activities designed to remind all people of their inherent worth and shared need for one another. We seek to be a place of welcome for all, especially for folks who may not feel welcome any where else.
“Haywood makes you feel like you belong.”
haywoodstreet.org • 828-575-2477
— Ryan
— Pamela Hamrick
Helpmate works with our community to eliminate abuse and fear by providing safety, shelter and support for survivors of intimate partner domestic violence. Services include a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, case management, counseling, outreach and education, children’s services, court advocacy and LGBTQIA+ outreach.
“As they are everywhere, abusive intimate partner relationships are a harsh reality in our community. I have seen the damage they can do, and I have seen the restoration that can occur when the right supports are available. Helpmate has provided services for survivors of intimate partner violence in Buncombe County for over 40 years. Now, more than ever, Helpmate needs our support to continue the mission.”
— Dr. John Stewart, former president of the Helpmate board of directors
helpmateonline.org • 828-254-2968; 24-hour hotline: 828-254-0516
Haywood Street Congregation
All donations will be matched, up to a total of $5,000. • The first 10 donors giving $75 or more will receive an item of their choosing of Haywood Street merch (multiple styles of hats and T-shirts are available; visit website to view samples). • The first 10 donors giving $150 or more will receive a swag bag containing a Holy Chaos T-shirt, The Haywood Street Fresco book, a bookmark and stickers.
Hi-Wire Brewing will offer a free pint of beer to anyone who donates $25 or more.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them. = MATCHING OFFER
Since 1978, Pisgah Legal Services has been a source of hope for people in our mountains who are struggling to make ends meet. We believe that justice is for everyone, not just those who can afford a lawyer.
We provide a broad array of free, civil legal aid, antipoverty advocacy and access to health care in the 18-county mountain region. Pisgah Legal helps people with low incomes meet basic needs, including protection from domestic violence, preventing homelessness, and securing care and income. Each year, Pisgah Legal’s caring attorneys, advocates and volunteers help 25,000-plus people across WNC.
Our Voice’s mission is to inspire hope and healing while ending sexual violence and human trafficking in our communities through education, counseling and advocacy. Our support extends to individual counseling, crisis intervention and educational programs. Donations ensure that survivors can continue to access these vital services and reclaim their lives.
“When I came to Our Voice, I was skeptical. Decades had passed since my trauma, and I wondered if it was ‘too late.’ Gradually, [my counselor and I] worked together … and slowly, I began to make connections and feel a sense of peace.” — A counseling client
ourvoicenc.org • 24/7 Crisis Line: 828-255-7576; Business Line: 828-252-0562
“We have known from the start there’s little chance of recouping any money — but we had lost our sense of safety and security. We were frankly quite ‘damaged’ and fearful, frankly, until [our Pisgah Legal attorney, Robert] and Pisgah Legal Services came to our aid.”
— Ann and John, Pisgah Legal clients pisgahlegal.org • 828-253-0406
Our Voice
Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate to Still Point Wellness. • Donations of $250 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a $250 gift certificate to Dog & Pony Show and a drawing for a $100 gift certificate to Still Point Wellness.
All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, thanks to Marie Bauer. • The first 10 donors will each receive a Pisgah Legal Services mug.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $60,000, thanks to the Flora T. Webb Trust. • Donors of $100 or more will receive a $20 coupon to use at our resale store, Within Reach.
The mission of REACH of Haywood County is to empower survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse and human trafficking through safety, healing and advocacy. We provide lifesaving shelter, crisis intervention, counseling, court and hospital accompaniment, and community education. Our work ensures that every survivor has the dignity, safety and resources they need to reclaim their life.
“When I first came to REACH, I felt trapped and had nowhere safe to go with my children. The advocates listened to me, believed me and gave us a place to stay. They helped me find counseling, navigate court and helped me believe in myself again.”
— REACH of Haywood client
Founded in 1981, Western Carolina Rescue Ministries (WCRM) is Asheville’s largest and oldest rescue center. WCRM provides free meals, shelter, clothing, medical care and life-skills training, along with long-term recovery programs — Iron and Oil for men, and Abba’s House, which allows mothers to live with their children. Unique programs, such as the Joshua Plan and Women of Worth, offer counseling, job training and transitional support. Guided by Christ’s love, WCRM exists to serve the homeless, poor and addicted through res cue, recovery and restoration.
reachofhaywood.org • 828-456-7898
“Western Carolina Rescue Ministries has profoundly impacted my and my family’s life. To be able to come alongside and serve with people in the pro gram while they are in recovery is an incredible gift! They impart their hard-earned wisdom/lessons to my children. I’m honored to serve and support their mission, and I highly recommend getting involved with this incredible organization.”
westerncarolinarescue.org • 828-254-1529
— Kendra Cathey, volunteer
MountainTrue brings together members, volunteers and advocates to safeguard our public lands, clean up our rivers and promote sustainable growth. By combining grassroots action with professional expertise, we’re building a healthier, more resilient future for our mountains and communities.
EcoForesters is a nonprofit professional forestry organization dedicated to restoring and conserving Appalachian forests through education and stewardship. Tropical Storm Helene dealt local forests a significant blow, and landowners need help restoring forest health and resiliency. Through community forestry programs, landowner workshops and stewardship collaborations, we emphasize sound ecological management. At our 10year anniversary mark, we have covered over 200,000 acres in stewardship plans and treated 1,000 acres of permanently protected lands for invasive plants.
“[EcoForesters] did a site visit a year ago at my property, which was an amazing gift of knowledge and guidance. Thank you for your top-notch expertise, [and] for your many kindnesses in communication and action.”
— J. Barnhardt
ecoforesters.org • 828-484-6842
In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, we’ve launched a monumental cleanup effort to restore our rivers, create jobs and bring communities together. So far, we’ve cleaned up more than 3 million pounds of trash and debris from local waterways and are on track to hire more than 80 good-paying jobs to help us continue this work.
“As a four-star rated nonprofit on Charity Navigator with strong advocacy for for ests, clean water and healthy communities across 26 counties, MountainTrue is a fierce champion of the environment. I can’t think of a better time than now to support this organization through donations and/or hands-on volunteering.”
mountaintrue.org • 828-258-8737
— Michael Kenyon
RiverLink promotes the environmental and economic vitality of the French Broad River and its watershed for all. RiverLink accomplishes its mission by providing permanent public access to the river; reclaiming contaminated lands for public enjoyment; restoring local streams; empowering over 1,000 volunteers each year; and annually educating thousands about the importance of a healthy French Broad River watershed.
“As a serious river lover, I support RiverLink because the restoration and revitalization of the ancient French Broad is important to our entire community. This organization gets so much done — whether it’s leading development of new parks and greenways, protecting tributary streams with easements, reducing stormwater pollution or providing education programming for kids.”
— Marc Hunt, former Asheville City Council member riverlink.org • 828-252-8474
EcoForesters has secured matching funding for the first $10,000 raised. • Those who donate $50 or more get their choice of an EcoForesters hat or shirt.
Donors giving $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Second Gear gift card. • All donors receive a Native Plants guide. • The first 25 donors of $50 or more receive a $10 gift card to Twisted Laurel. • Those who donate $250-$499 will receive a possum pin (while supplies last). • Donors giving $500 or more will receive a possum pin and a MountainTrue Hellbender beanie (both while supplies last).
The first 25 donors of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for a rain barrel, complete with installation video.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
The mountains of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee are a global biodiversity hotspot, home to rare species, breathtaking scenic views, clean water sources, working farms and beloved trails. Over more than 50 years, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy has protected almost 100,000 acres in this irreplaceable landscape. Help us create new parks, add to national forests, preserve more family farms, inspire young naturalists and protect more habitat!
“We are excited to continue our partnership with SAHC. Protecting the places that we live and play in are vital to us not only as a company, but as members of this community — so we will continue to support this work for the long haul.”
— Rachel Dudasik, community engagement and communications manager, Wicked Weed Brewing
appalachian.org • 828-253-0095
The Pisgah Conservancy is a nonprofit partner of Pisgah National Forest, working to care for places like Black Balsam, Looking Glass Falls, Mount Pisgah, Bent Creek and other iconic forest landmarks. When you donate to The Pisgah Conservancy, you are supporting efforts to steward aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, conduct trash cleanups, fight invasive spe cies and restore some of Western North Carolina’s most loved trails. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the forest — and the people who enjoy it.
“Partnering with The Pisgah Conservancy is a way for us to tangibly give back to a forest that has entertained, delighted and blessed each of us in countless ways. Just like the forest encompasses the smallest pine needle to vast, breathtaking views, we feel blessed to contribute small actions that join a network of humanity striving to preserve this gift for ages to come.”
pisgahconservancy.org • 828-782-1418
— Jeff and Anna Plack and family
Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
Wicked Weed Brewing will match all gifts, up to a total of $10,000. • Wicked Weed Brewing will provide $10 gift cards to its downtown pub to those who give $250 or more.
The Pisgah Conservancy
An anonymous donor will match the first $20,000 contributed to The Pisgah Conservancy. • Donors who contribute $100 or more to The Pisgah Conservancy will receive a patch or tote bag.
From humble but proud beginnings, raising just $37,000 for 30 nonprofits in 2015, Give!Local has grown each year, raising almost $338,000 in 2024 for 52 amazing organizations. With your help, we hope to keep the momentum going in 2025. Let’s take the next giant leap together!
One year ago, our public schools became hubs of hope — serving as charging stations, water distribution sites, resource centers and helicopter landing pads for rescue workers. Our schools reminded us that they are more than classrooms: They are the foundation of our community. That same spirit of resilience and care continues today. We invite you to stand with the Asheville City Schools Foundation , helping us do whatever it takes to ensure every Asheville City Schools student, educator and staff member can thrive.
“As command staff with the Asheville Police Department and an ACS (Asheville City Schools) parent, I know firsthand how ACS and ACSF respond in moments of crisis like Helene. Our public schools serve as resource hubs for the entire community and create program opportunities for youths to meaningfully engage. Please consider supporting our schools as they provide critical infrastructure for our city and build our future leaders.”
acsf.org • 828-350-6174
Asheville Museum of Science is Western North Carolina’s hub for hands-on science learning and exploration. Each year, thousands of children, families and lifelong learners engage with our exhibits and programs — from fossil digs and water tables to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) camps, sci ence talks and community science events.
AMOS is growing to meet the needs of our region. We are working to raise funds to expand our downtown museum with new exhibits and spaces designed to spark imagination, fuel discovery and prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
“As both a parent and a teacher, I can’t overstate what a gift it is to have AMOS in our community. My students and my own children come away inspired, curi ous and excited about science every single time we visit.”
ashevillescience.org • 828-254-7162
— Local parent and educator
— Geoffrey Rollins
Buncombe Partnership for Children champions the magical first five years of every child’s life, when 90% of brain development happens and imaginations take flight. Each year we send free books to 5,100 children, give families $1 million in child care vouchers, enroll 400 children in free North Carolina Pre-K programs, and train 900 early educators to nurture with care and curiosity. When we succeed, families feel supported, educators are celebrated for their passion and professionalism, and children reach their potential.
“Maybe I could do something when I grow up. I could get my own house, be an artist, a teacher or a police officer. When I grow up, I want to be a doctor and then I can feed people vegetables, celery, carrots and broccoli.”
buncombepfc.org • 828-407-2051
— Children in a North Carolina pre-K class
Celebrating our 50th year in Western North Carolina, Caring for Children supports children and families through the Respite Scholarship Program, providing assistance to pay for child care; the Angel’s Watch program, providing a temporary placement in a host home during family crises; and therapeutic and family foster care services when needed.
“I loved working with the Angels Watch program. It really helped me in a time of need. It made me know that my child was safe and sound while I was getting the help that I needed.”
— Karlee S.
avl.mx/acw • 828-777-5715
Asheville City Schools Foundation
When you donate $25 or more, you will receive a card for one complimentary High Five beverage, redeemable at any High Five location. Asheville Museum of Science
Donors of $25 or more receive a free ticket to the Asheville Museum of Science. • Donors of $50–$249 receive a free ticket to the museum and an AMOS T-shirt. • Donors of $250–$499 receive a free family membership to the museum with unlimited visits for a year. • Donors of $500 or more receive a private, behind-the-scenes tour with an AMOS educator for up to six guests, plus a family membership to the museum.
Buncombe Partnership for Children
All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $5,000, by generous donors.
Caring for Children
Thanks to an anonymous donor, any donation of $250 or more will be matched, up to a total of $5,000.
Helping At Risk Kids (HARK) serves Buncombe County’s most vulnerable children and youths: those in court-ordered protective custody, kids aging out of the foster care system and youngsters without stable housing. We fund basic, emergency and child-specific enrichment needs as identified by social workers and school counselors.
First/Communities In Schools works to empower both children and families by keeping students on track for academic success and supporting well-being through a whole-child, whole-family approach. Our student support specialists work in K-6 schools to support students with improvement goals related to attendance, behavior, coursework, parent engagement and social-emotional learning. Our learning centers provide after-school and summer enrichment programming for children within their own neighborhoods. Family resource centers offer food boxes, school supplies, emergency financial assistance and more.
“CF/CIS has made a huge impact on the students and families of Oakley Elementary. Ms. Perry, our student support specialist, is an essential part of the wraparound support we offer students. Her impact on students is beyond measure!”
— Jo Landreth, principal of Oakley Elementary childrenfirstcisbc.org • 828-259-9717
“Health & Human Services is facing significant funding cuts. … While we continue to provide for basic necessities, many of the supports we once offered are no longer possible. HARK has been instrumental in filling these gaps, providing crucial assistance such as rental support, car repairs, clothing beyond our minimal provisions, camp experiences and extracurricular activities. … Their support is truly invaluable to our community.”
— Amber Cook, Buncombe County foster care program manager hark-bc.org • 828-423-0235
Donors who give $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a Trader Joe’s gift basket. • Those who donate $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win lunch and a wine tasting for eight from Metro Wines. • Donors who give $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a gift basket of gift certificates from Mother Ocean Seafood Market, Mangum Pottery, Wood Tiger Healing Art massage, Crust Never Sleeps bakery, Studio Chavarria hair salon and Michael Hofman porcelain studios. • One generous donor will match the first $5,000 in donations. • Another generous donor also will match donations, up to $1,000 total.
Donations of $25 or more will be entered into a raffle for a $50 gift card to Black Bear Pizza. • Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a raffle to win a gift basket full of local products worth more than $300. • All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $25,500, by generous anonymous donors.
All donations, up to a total of $10,000, will be generously matched by an anonymous donor.
The Mountain Child Advocacy Center is a vital resource for children and families in Buncombe County who have experienced abuse and trauma. We provide a safe, childfocused environment and work in partnership with law enforcement, child protective services, and medical and mental health professionals to reduce trauma during a child’s most vulnerable moments. Our no-cost services include advocacy, evidence-based trauma therapy and prevention education for both children and adults. Even our therapy dog, Peace, helps children on their healing journey.
“I support the Mountain Child Advocacy Center because their commitment to preventing harm and protecting children is unwavering, and I’ve seen firsthand how they lead with integrity and excellence. Their dedication to community collaboration and their trauma-responsive approach ensure that children and families receive the best possible care.”
— Dr. Cameron Kurowski, The Family Health Centers
mtncac.org • 828-213-9824
The mission of OpenDoors Asheville is to strengthen community by eliminating opportunity and achievement gaps for students through education. When students are equipped with a broad range of academic interventions and experiences, they have the social, emotional, cognitive and physical skills to support their classroom, college and career success. Strong students become strong leaders, in turn strengthening the community.
“I am so grateful for OpenDoors! My daughter’s grades have improved tremendously, and she’s more confident in her schoolwork. Their college readiness program has helped my son and made him change his mind about going to college. My kids experience so much fun that I never got to experience — it makes my heart so warm.”
opendoorsasheville.org • 828-239-8811
— OpenDoors parent
Read to Succeed Asheville/Buncombe (R2S) is a Black-led independent literacy nonprofit on a mission to help close the race-based opportunity gap. We do this through communitypowered literacy programming that engages children, families and community partners. R2S programs serve children from birth to age 5, along with elementary school students and their families through community literacy training, one-to-one and smallgroup tutoring, guest author visits and live read-alouds, culturally responsive book distribution, kindergarten-readiness support and more!
“Thanks so much for the great visit. It was wonderful to see what your team does on the ground and certainly helps us to understand how important this work is.”
— Rep. Eric Ager, N.C. House of Representatives, District 114 r2sasheville.org • 828-747-2277
Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high-quality, affordable early care and education to over 200 children — birth to 5 years old — throughout Buncombe County. Through holistic learning environments, we strive to help build a community where every individual (child, family, staff and faculty) has the opportunity to thrive.
“Verner Center for Early Learning has been monumental in the growth and accomplishments of both my children and family together. There have been days that we have ‘made it through’ because of Verner’s ability to go above and beyond. Thank you, Verner!”
— Brandon Oliver, parent of former student vernerearlylearning.org • 828-298-0808
Give now at givelocalguide.org
Read to Succeed of Asheville/Buncombe
The first $1,500 donated will be matched by an anonymous donor. • All donors receive a free R2S sticker.
Verner Center for Early Learning
The first $10,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor.
Credit card service fees are proudly paid for by 100% of
Every penny counts! goes to the nonprofits
Rescue, rehabilitate, release and relate: This is the mission of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge , a nonprofit that has provided quality care to over 11,000 injured and orphaned wildlife since opening its facility in 2018. AWR supports the wildlife rehabilitation network by helping all native species and educating the community regarding wildlife conservation and coexistence. It is open every day, so call if you find wildlife in need of help!
“Our precious wildlife are under increasing threat to their survival because of development, human activity and climate change. Appalachian Wildlife Refuge rescues, treats and rehabilitates injured, sick and orphaned wildlife, releasing them back home whenever possible. They are an invaluable resource for compassionate ‘finders’ and for all who believe that wild creatures deserve our protection and care.”
appalachianwild.org • 828-633-6364
Since 1984, Asheville Humane Society has dedicated itself to ensuring every animal has the quality of life they deserve — a life worth living. Now, we go beyond our walls to help create a more humane community for pets and the people who love them. Through personalized adoptions, education opportunities, volunteer ing, fostering, emergency resources and cutting-edge care innova tions, we are working to go above and beyond an animal shelter.
“Giving animals a new chance at life with a loving family is only the starting point for AHS. Their care extends beyond adoptions, reach ing into our community to help pets and their families live better lives together. Partnering with AHS for over 25 years brings us joy in knowing their compassion and expertise will continue to grow and improve the lives of the pets and humans of Subieville.”
— Kim Richardson, community outreach manager, Fred Anderson Subaru
ashevillehumane.org • 828-761-2001
— Patricia Gearity
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue has been a lifesaving presence in Western North Carolina since 2007, touching the lives of thousands of animals and the people who love them each year. Through vital medical care, adoptions, rural shelter partnerships, fostering and community pet support, we create brighter futures for animals and the people who love them. We’re rebuilding after the loss of our shelter to devastating floodwaters as we continue saving lives every day in a temporary location.
“I support Brother Wolf because I believe animals deserve safety, love and a chance to thrive. Even after the heartbreaking loss of their shelter, Brother Wolf has never stopped showing up for pets and their people. Being part of this community feels like helping write a brighter future for us all.”
— Hannah Randall, board member
bwar.org • 828-505-3440
Appalachian Wildlife Refuge
All donations will be matched up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters. • Everyone who donates will be entered into a drawing for a free pass for two guests to join a regularly scheduled yoga hike with Asheville Wellness Tours. • Anyone who donates $50 or more will be entered into a drawing to participate in a wild release (with up to four people), which will be featured on our Facebook and Instagram accounts. • Anyone who donates $250 or more will receive a professional 11-by-14-inch matted print of wildlife. • Anyone who donates $1,000 or more will receive a beautiful suncatcher featuring wildlife, plus get a plaque with their name on it hung in our facility. • Anyone who donates $2,500 or more will have a stepping stone installed at our facility that’s engraved with their name or an honoree of their choosing, plus be added to our annual report under our new major supporters section.
Asheville Humane Society
Donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters.
Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
An anonymous donor is matching the first $10,000 in Give!Local donations to Brother Wolf.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
The Western North Carolina Nature Center connects people of all ages with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Your donation to the Friends of the WNC Nature Center supports the animal habitats, education programs and conservation initiatives of the Nature Center, and inspires people to know more, care more and do more for the unique wildlife of this region.
“Beyond enjoying the beautiful, shaded trails and observing the many awe-inspiring creatures, our family has celebrated birthdays, had summer camp adventures and connected with one another and with the natural world in ways we couldn’t do elsewhere. The Nature Center has even served as a gateway for our family to explore other zoos and museums that we wouldn’t have otherwise visited. It’s a true gem and an asset to WNC!”
wildwnc.org • 828-259-8092
Since 2007, Friends2Ferals’ mission has been to provide a long-term solution to feline overpopulation in Buncombe, Henderson and Madison counties. We support a high-volume community program to spay/neuter and vaccinate stray and feral cats, as well as providing additional veterinary assistance for those in need.
Following Tropical Storm Helene, requests for assistance have exploded. At the same time, grant funding has all but dried up, so now we must rely almost exclusively on donations.
To date, we have provided services for over 17,000 cats!
“Upon renting a house, I discovered that the backyard was filled with sick cats and dying kittens. I contacted Friends2Ferals, and they came out immediately to assess the situation. In all, over 65 cats were fixed and received medical care, and about seven litters of kittens were treated and placed with local rescues. I so appreciate everything they did.”
friends2ferals.org • 828-505-6737
— Dominik
Friends of the WNC Nature Center
Gifts will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $2,500, thanks to Loti Woods and Dale Weiler on behalf of Champions for Wildlife. • Donors of $25 or more will receive a free day pass to the Nature Center. • Donors of $50 or more will receive the above, plus an enamel Nature Center Centennial lapel pin. • Donors of $100 or more will receive all the above, plus an animal sticker drawn by a local artist and a wooden Nature Center Centennial ornament. • Donors of $250 or more will receive all the above, plus an invitation to our special engagement, Tea & Turtles, and will be entered to win a chance for two people to visit on habitat with red panda Phoenix. • Donors of $500 or more will receive all the above, plus a private guided tour of the Nature Center with animal enrichment for two people.
All donations will be matched, up to a total of $5,000, in loving memory of Judith N. Watters. • Those who donate $20 or more will receive a $5 coupon to Patton Avenue Pet Co.
Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville is a foster-based rescue whose mission is simple, yet very important: Connecting people with pets in need. We pride ourselves on maximizing lifesaving efforts with minimal resources. We have saved over 8,000 pets in our seven years as an organization and plan on continuing to make a huge impact for the pets and people in our community.
“To volunteer for such a great organization is both a privilege and a pleasure. We are in awe of the hardworking and compassionate staff at Mountain Pet Rescue. We walk dogs a couple of times a week, assist at adoption events and even fold laundry when needed. Nothing is too small for these animals. There is nothing like seeing an animal heading off to their ‘fur-ever’ home to warm your heart. Thanks for letting us be a part of it.”
— Christine and Steve Weitz
Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation strives to decrease the number of homeless dogs and cats in Haywood County — as well as improve their welfare — through our support of the bonds between them and their human companions.
mpravl.org • pets@mpravl.org
“Sarge’s is a little nonprofit with a big heart. For 20 years, Sarge’s has been tirelessly rescu ing, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of animals. Sarge’s provides essential commu nity resources by distributing donated pet food and supplies to those in need and partnering with Haywood Spay/Neuter to provide low-cost spay/neuter services to the public. Sarge’s is 100% donation-based and needs your support. Critical improvements are sorely needed: upgrading kennels, creating new medical and enrichment areas, expanding outreach facili ties and improving the lobby/adoption center. Please help Sarge’s goal become a reality and donate today!”
sarges.org • 828-246-9050
— Kelly B.
Mountain Pet Rescue Asheville
All donations, up to a total of $5,000, will be generously matched by two anonymous donors, thereby tripling those gifts.
Sarge’s Animal Rescue
All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $10,000, by an anonymous donor.
Bountiful Cities ’ impact is rooted in building long-term food security by connecting people to food, education, urban agriculture skills, economic empowerment and each other.
We serve over 1,500 students annually through our FEAST program, bringing hands-on cooking and gardening education to K–8 public schools and equipping young people with lifelong skills to grow and prepare healthy food — while connecting to core curriculum and objectives in reading, math, science and technology. Food distribution from gardens we manage and donations we solicit yield thousands of pounds of fresh produce each year — which is distributed directly to local families, school partners and resource centers. Through this network, we are working toward a more just, equitable and resilient food system.
“Without FEAST, I wouldn’t have my base knowledge and passion for agriculture, plants and animals. I truly think that FEAST is a great opportunity for kids to learn about agriculture from a young age, so they can have the knowledge of the world that they need as adults.”
— Delaney Bulfer, Asheville High School class of 2025, FFA (Future Farmers of America) officer and founding member bountifulcities.org • 828-545-1295
Bounty & Soul is a community-powered nonprofit working at the intersection of food, farms and health. Its flagship program, Produce to the People, runs 10 weekly free produce markets across Buncombe County, connecting neighbors with fresh, local food and health re sources. Through the Farmers Alliance, Bounty & Soul supports the local farm ing economy by purchasing locally grown food to distribute at the markets, while Rooted in Health provides knowledge, tools and resources to help people care for their bodies, minds and spirits.
“I’ve been getting fresh vegetables from Bounty & Soul since July, and I can’t tell you how much it means to me. I’m going through cancer treatment right now and having these fresh veggies lets me cook meals that help me stay strong and deal with the side effects. I’m so grateful for these food boxes — they’ve truly been a lifesaver for me.”
bountyandsoul.org • 828-419-0533
— Louise Elaine Metcalf
Equal Plates Project (EPP) exists to support local farmers, address food insecurity and build community through scratch-cooked meals. By purchasing from small farms at fair prices, EPP transforms their high-quality ingredients into nourishing meals and then partners with community organizations to share thousands each week with neighbors facing barriers to food access.
“Our residents at Compass Point Village truly appreciate receiving meals from Equal Plates Project. They are always filled with fresh vegetables, and many have never experienced food like this before. These meals are truly a blessing to our residents.”
— Debbie Huskins, residential manager at Homeward Bound’s Compass Point Village equalplatesproject.org • 828-214-5150
Loving Food Resources is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide food and personal care items to those living with HIV/AIDS, anyone in home hospice care regardless of the diagnosis and members of the LGBTQIA2+ community facing food insecurity.
“My partner and I struggle to make ends meet, but every month we run low on money for essentials. Western North Carolina AIDS Project referred my partner to Loving Food Resources. Our family life has greatly improved since this referral. Every week, Loving Food Resources gives us healthy food and products like soap, shampoo, toilet paper and laundry soap. We once worried all the time about how we would get by — that worry is gone, and our son [age 9, who is disabled] receives the food so important for his condition. We are so grateful for this support.“
— Parent of Loving Food Resources client lovingfood.org • 828-255-9282
The first $2,500 in donations will be matched, thanks to our generous donor, Edward Kolesar.
An anonymous donor is matching the first $1,000 in donations.
with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
We believe no senior in our community should face hunger or loneliness alone — that’s why Meals on Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County is here. We promote the well-being of homebound seniors through the weekday delivery of nutritious lunchtime meals and friendly visits. For many, the real gift is the human connection. We serve as a safety net helping alleviate hunger and isolation, while supporting ongoing independence. Beyond meals, we provide pet food and a grocery shopping and delivery service. We have added new delivery routes to meet the growing need and now serve more than 600 meals each weekday.
“It wasn’t my idea. My granddaughter suggested it because I kept burning myself cooking. Now, I look forward to seeing a friendly face every day.”
mowabc.org • 828-253-5286
Root Cause Farm is a nonprofit organization in Fairview dedicated to alleviating food insecurity and contributing to a regenerative, equitable and resilient food system and community.
Through the coordination of volunteers, service learning groups and interns, we grow thousands of pounds of organic produce each season. Everything we grow is directly distributed — at no cost — to members of our community in need, ensuring we all have access to fresh, healthy, locally grown food.
The farm operates as a community hub for education and impact: a place for members of our community to find the nourish ment they need.
“[Root Cause Farm] drives people to care, moves people to feel good even during a bad situation. And that causes a reaction to change outcomes that empowers people to withstand. To create more than what was taken.”
rootcausefarm.org • 828-276-1156
— Ann, Meals on Wheels recipient
— Share Market participant
Enrollment is competitive and each year’s roster of nonprofits changes to keep the program fresh.
1. We will select the 2026 Give!Local nonprofits based on:
• Their ability to utilize the program;
• Their stated plan of action to make use of the program to raise funds; and
• Our need to maintain a balance of diversity (in organization size, scope and category).
• Past enthusiasm and results, as well as fresh perspective and new direction.
2. We keep the program fresh by rotating the nonprofits involved; selection in previous years does not assure future inclusion — so please don’t make Give!Local part of your permanent fundraising plans. If you are selected for 2026, leverage the opportunity the best you can and don’t assume participation in ensuing years.
3. If you are selected to participate in the 2026 Give!Local campaign and accept, we will need some materials from you, including a letter from your board approving your nonprofit’s participation, information about your organization for inclusion in the Give!Local web and print guides and a participation fee. PLEASE NOTE: There is no fee associated with this application; the participation fee is due only if you are invited and agree to participate in Give!Local.
4. The deadline for applying is July 3, 2026. Early applications are encouraged. We will notify the selected nonprofits by early August. We will also select a group of standby organizations, to participate in the event of cancellations.
5. We currently plan to limit the 2026 program to about 50 nonprofits.
6. The Give!Local campaign will be time-intensive for participating nonprofits. Each one will need to develop a strategy for success, which may include some or all of the following: donor incentives, matching grants, fundraising events and business partners. It is imperative that participating organizations be prepared to commit the necessary resources. We have found that without substantial effort on the part of each nonprofit, the program will be ineffective (i.e., not much money will be raised).
7. Give!Local campaign begins Nov. 1, when the campaign’s online platform opens. At about the same time, the Give!Local print guide will be distributed areawide in Mountain Xpress and at selected additional locations. Extra copies of the print guide will be available for all participating nonprofits as support material to encourage public participation.
Habitat for Humanity is a movement of people in our local area and around the world working together to build more prosperous and vibrant communities by making sure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. Founded in 1983, Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity was the first Habitat affiliate in North Carolina. Together, with support from volunteers, donors and advocates, we have helped thousands of low-income residents in Buncombe and Madison counties access decent, affordable housing. Better health, education and well-being — it all starts with home. Learn more about Asheville Area Habitat and how you can get involved at ashevillehabitat.org.
“With Habitat’s ceiling repairs, the house is a lot warmer now. It’s saving me money, and I’m enjoying it more now, too. Everybody needs a home that’s livable.” — Arthur, Habitat Home Repair client
ashevillehabitat.org • 828-251-5702
Blue Ridge Public Radio is here for Western North Carolina — creating and sharing stories that inform, inspire and bring people together. Serving 14 counties and reaching more than 900,000 people, BPR offers award-winning local journalism, NPR programs and cultural content that helps us better understand our neighbors and the world. In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, listeners have called BPR a lifeline — a trusted companion that connects them to reliable information and to each other. With the loss of federal support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, we rely on community strength to keep this lifeline strong.
“When Hurricane Helene struck, Blue Ridge Public Radio never stopped. Reporters kept working through outages, broadcasting long hours and updating their website and text feeds to serve a dev astated community. BPR became an essential source of information and connection.”
— Katharine Zammara, middle school teacher and Shiloh neighborhood resident bpr.org • 828-210-4810
The mission of Eblen Charities is to provide assistance to families and individuals in our community during times of crisis and hardship, whether a medical, financial or emergency need.
“Thank you, Eblen Charities, for all you have done for us, for a couple in Swannanoa that you don’t even know. The house will be different, the history is now gone, but the love is still there. You are helping us move our feet forward to be back home, and for that we are forever grateful.”
—
Allie, an Eblen client
eblencharities.org • 828-255-3066
Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity
All donors will be entered into a drawing to win one of two $50 ReStore gift cards.
Eblen Charities
Everyone who donates will be entered into a drawing for a party pack provided by Crumbl Cookies. • Donors giving $25 or more are entered into a drawing to win a basket full of Eblen Charities goodies. • The first $10,000 in donations will be matched by Mission Health.
Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them. = MATCHING OFFER
just ask.
Firefly Gathering envisions a world where everybody is empowered with multigenerational perspectives, wisdom and earth skills, handcrafting a beautiful and harmonious reality in which all beings can thrive.
Our mission is to inspire and empower the people of the Southeast by offering opportunities to connect with self, community and the natural world through year-round earth skills workshops and gatherings focused on traditional wisdom and craft.
“Thank you for your boldness. Firefly is truly an ally who uses its platform in a way that allows us in marginalized communities to feel safe and seen. Thank you for holding space for us and speaking in a way that takes the emotional labor off of us.”
fireflygathering.org • 828-237-2551
The mission of the Fund for Investigative Reporting and Editing (FIRE) is to promote locally based reporting that encourages citizen participation and a sense of community in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Because we believe that a strong democracy is based on freedom of speech and access to public information, we provide resources to local reporters, editors and activists who favor these principles.
“Thanks to FIRE’s support, Mountain Xpress has been able to maintain its commitment to coverage of city and county government meetings, ensuring area residents are fully informed of what elected representatives are doing on a weekly basis.”
— Thomas Calder, managing editor, Mountain Xpress wncfire.org • 828-251-1333, ext. 109
— Firefly attendee
Donors of $100-$299 will be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Firefly gift certificate, valid for Perennial Workshops or the Annual Gathering. • Donors of $300-$499 will be entered into a raffle to win one full pass (plus on-site parking) to the 2026 Firefly Gathering and a Firefly T-shirt of their choice (a $500-plus value). • Donors of $500 or more will be entered into a raffle to win two full passes (plus on-site parking) to the 2026 Firefly Gathering (a $900-plus value). • The first 50 donors to donate $25 or more will receive an exclusive Firefly Gathering sticker.
Homeward Bound believes housing is a human right. Our mission is preventing and ending homelessness in our community through permanent housing and support. Since 2006, we have moved over 2,670 people into housing. In 2024, we had a 96.5% retention rate for clients not returning to homelessness.
We offer programs to transition unhoused neighbors into their own homes, including our AHOPE Day Center, homeless prevention, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing and our Welcome Home Donation Center.
“Homeward Bound never gave up on me, and it’s been nothing but great for me. I’ve got a sense of belonging. I have a sense of security. And having that freedom and independence is just absolutely the best feeling. A euphoric feeling comes over me every time I put my key in my lock.”
— Tiffany, Homeward Bound client
LEAF Global Arts is on a mission of connecting cultures and creating community through world music, arts education, preservation and experiences.
homewardboundwnc.org • 828-579-3479
Moving through a global pandemic, a tropical storm and recent budget cuts for arts and education, LEAF Festival celebrates 30 years of cultural preservation and global arts education in the schools and streets of Asheville and in 10 countries around the world. Post-Helene, LEAF supported the Asheville artist community with a LEAF Local Artist Relief Fund.
This year’s festival theme, “Live Life Like a Festival,” is named after the LEAF book written by founder, visionary and connector Jennifer Pickering. The LEAF book pre sale kicks off LEAF’s Global Arts FUNdraiser 2025-2026, an invitation to live life cel ebrating connection, creativity and community.
“The closest distance between two people is a story, a song or a dance.”
theleaf.org • 828-686-8742
— Masankho Banda
Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a raffle for a gift basket featuring selections from local breweries. • Donors who give $250 or more will be entered into a raffle for a customized dining experience at an Asheville restaurant. • All donations will be matched dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, by anonymous donors.
Donors of $25 or more will be entered into a drawing for a LEAF Benefactor Membership (valued at $250), which includes • Retreat and festival early access (on Thursday). • Members Coffee House invitation (Sunday morning during events). • Elfhaven Childcare early registration. • VIP parking pass for retreat and festival. • A behind-the-scenes tour of LEAF Retreat or LEAF Festival. • 10% off merchandise at LEAF Global Arts Downtown.
Literacy Together ’s mission is to transform lives and communities through the power of literacy. Our programs — Adult Literacy, English for Speakers of Other Languages, Youth Literacy and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library — are designed to meet the unique needs of learners at every stage of life. Enhanced literacy skills create a ripple effect through our community, benefiting everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Imagine a world where everyone has the ability to read, learn, communicate and succeed. Together, we are making that vision a reality.
“When I learned of my diagnosis of dyslexia at the age of 40, it felt like the end of the world. But it was really just the beginning of a new one.”
— David, Adult Literacy student lit-together.org • 828-254-3442
The Mediation Center creates a safer and more peaceful community for everyone by helping people move through difficult and stressful conflicts with neighbors, family members, co-workers and community members.
“It was really helpful and refreshing to have the mediators listen to us and help us figure things out. I wasn’t optimistic after everything that happened, but I feel like things are going to be OK now.”
— 2025 mediation participant mediatewnc.org • 828-251-6089
Donors who give $50-$99 will receive a $5 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe. • Donors who give $100 and up will receive a $15 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe. (Coupons will be available for pickup at Malaprop’s one week after donations are processed. They will be redeemable for in-store purchases at Malaprop’s through the end of February and need to be used in one visit.)
Anyone who donates will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Fine Arts Theatre and a complimentary popcorn. • Donors of $25 or more will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to Gypsy Queen Cuisine, Gan Shan or Nine Mile. • Donors of $50 or more will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift certificate from Netty Byrnes Jewelry Design. • Donors of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for two tickets to the Biltmore Estate. • All donations will be matched, up to a total of $10,000.
The first $10,000 in donations will be matched.
Having a car changes lives — opening the door to education, jobs and an improved quality of life. Working Wheels partners with nonprofits to provide low-cost cars and repairs to our neighbors in need in Western North Carolina. Community donations of vehicles and money fuel our programs and help your neighbors overcome financial obstacles.
“I now have reliable transportation for myself and my family. I lost my vehicle due to Helene, and I have been without transportation. It has been really hard for me. My family and I were in great need of a car. Thanks very much. I am so grateful to be part of this program.”
workingwheelswnc.org • 828-633-6888
— Ebbini, referred by the YWCA
All Souls Counseling Center ’s mission is to provide quality mental health counseling to adults in Western North Carolina. Focusing on the underinsured and uninsured, we offer sliding-scale fees to individuals, couples and groups. In partnership with their clients, our licensed therapists address issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, relationships and stress management, with specialties in post-traumatic stress disorder, resilience and recovery, and trauma-informed care. We fill a gap in the professional mental health landscape of WNC for under-resourced communities and populations.
“All Souls Counseling Center plays a vital role in helping ensure increased access to critical mental health services, regardless of income. Considering what families across Western North Carolina have experienced this year, we know our support for All Souls Counseling Center and its work will create a lasting impact in our community.”
— David Dowd, president, Bank of America Asheville
allsoulscounseling.org • 828-259-3369
Babies Need Bottoms delivers relief and hope — one diaper at a time — to more than 2,500 children every month across Western North Carolina.
Our mission is to improve the lives of babies, toddlers and parents in WNC through diaper distribution, community awareness and partnerships. We also work to shift public perception and policy around diaper need.
In proud partnership with more than 80 community-based or ganizations, we’ve distributed over 2.5 million diapers — alongside wipes, rash cream, formula and other essential infant hygiene items.
“The diapers provided by Babies Need Bottoms have continued to be a huge blessing. The diapers help to alleviate the weight that many parents feel having to decide between food and/or diapers. It has been a small something with a big impact that has significantly helped many of our families make ends meet and provide for their families.”
— Babies Need Bottoms’ distribution partner babiesneedbottoms.org • 828-658-5348
For over 60 years, the Council on Aging of Buncombe County has supported local seniors. COABC’s mission is to promote independence, dignity and well-being through service, education and advocacy.
COABC is a dynamic organization that addresses basic needs such as food, transportation, housing, caregiver support and access to affordable health care with person-centered services and support, and a particular focus on a person’s ability to age with dignity. Last year, COABC touched the lives of 6,750 of our aging neighbors. With changes to federal programs, COABC will continue evolving to meet the needs of our community’s older adults.
“I’m alone now, and this is all I got. I’m leaning on them and they’re taking care of me. Thank you for this place and the food. I don’t know how to cook.”
— John, who participates in the Senior Dining Program at Grove Street Community Center and also receives Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition vouchers
coabc.org • 828-277-8288
Jewish Family Services of WNC is an inclusive, welcoming space that provides a broad range of clinical and social support services to adults of all faiths, with a special emphasis on the needs of older adults and other underserved community members. We value integrity, respect, caring, quality and justice. JFS of WNC serves Buncombe and Henderson counties, offering services including mental health counseling, senior care management, case management, a food pantry and Faye’s Place Elder Club.
“[The JFS social worker] was really there for me and my family at a critical time by setting up a lifeline for my elderly parents; finding drivers so my disabled brother and father could make it to see their doctors; and finding people to help them unpack. [It was] above and beyond what I expected. This is such a needed program for the community.”
— Family member
jfswnc.org • 828-253-2900
Participants who donate at least $100 will have their names put into a drawing for one grand prize of a gift basket, which contains $125 worth of gift cards and a journal.
Everyone who donates $100 or more will be entered to win one of these standout experiences or bundles • Doughnuts with the Diaper Bankers — a private, behind-the-scenes warehouse tour with fresh local doughnuts, storytelling and a hands-on volunteer moment. • Asheville Love Basket — a curated gift basket featuring locally made treats and self-care items. • Anyone who donates $25 or more receives a Babies Need Bottoms sticker. • Those who give $50 or more will get a Babies Need Bottoms “Partner in Change” window cling. • Anyone who donates $75 or more receives a Babies Need Bottoms car magnet.
Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, the first $10,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar.
NAMI Western Carolina provides hope for those living with mental health challenges, along with their families. Through support groups, education programs, advocacy and public awareness, NAMI aims to create a community of inclusiveness so that all individuals have access to the care they need.
“Taking the NAMI Family-to-Family class was a game changer for me and my adult child who lives with bipolar disorder. I feel part of a community that understands what I am going through, and I know I am not alone.”
— Susan F.
namiwnc.org • 828-505-7353
The mission of St. Gerard Center for Autism is to help individuals with autism experience more joy and achieve meaningful life outcomes by providing evidence-based therapies, innovative programs and continuous advocacy. “They are dedicated, compassionate people who really care about our son and our whole family. They are there to listen and support in good times, but especially the most difficult times, when you need support the most.”
stgerardhouse.org • 828-693-4223
— Parent of St. Gerard client
NAMI Western Carolina
Donations of $50 or more will be entered into a drawing for a NAMI swag bag. • Donations of $100 or more will be entered into a drawing for a swag bag from a local business. • A generous donor will match the first $1,000 of donations.
St. Gerard Center for Autism
All donors will receive a St. Gerard Center sticker. • Donors of $25 or more will receive a personally decorated thank-you card from a Feed the Need program participant. • Donors of $100 or more will receive the above incentives plus a St. Gerard T-shirt.
Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness
The first $5,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar by one of Sunrise’s supporters. Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.
The mission of Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness is to create community wellness through shared lived experience.
At Sunrise, we believe recovery from substance use and mental health challenges is possible — and we’re living proof! Our team of state-certified peer support specialists use their own lived experience of recovery to support others, offering understanding that only comes from having been there themselves. Through authentic peer support, harm reduction, resource connections and education, we are uniquely equipped to break through the shame, stigma and judgment that often keep people from seeking help. We support individuals navigating the impacts of trauma, including substance use, mental health struggles, houselessness, family separation and justice involvement, by meeting them with compassion, hope and resources.
“I truly believe I wouldn’t be alive without this program. I’m coming up on eight months [substance-free] and never felt better.”
— A.M.
sunriseinasheville.org • 828-552-3858
To build community and strengthen democracy by serving an engaged, thoughtful constituency at the local level – where the impact of citizen action is greatest. We report on local events, regional issues and the area’s vibrant arts-and-culture scene – independently , fairly and in-depth.
We partner with the community to create an ongoing civic dialogue . We offer exceptional and affordable media opportunities for local businesses, professionals and nonprofit groups to promote their offerings to the community.
