FY 2024 + ANNUAL REPORT
Our Annual Report... Expanded
2024 feels like a lifetime ago
Our team had just begun drafting the 2023–24 Annual Report when the storm hit— and everything changed
In those early days and the months that followed, our priority was clear: respond to the crisis and support our community
Now, with care and reflection, we’ve finally put pen to paper While this report begins with a look at the past fiscal year, you’ll find that it stretches beyond those dates. We’ve included recent stories that reflect the ongoing recovery and your impact. We’ll note when and where we do that, but we hope each story brings you closer to our work—and reminds you of the difference you’ve made.
On a personal note, I’ve been a donor and volunteer with United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County (UWABC) for over 17 years . What started as a way to give back evolved into a deep commitment, particularly as our efforts to support youth and their education took root . After witnessing how this organization mobilized in the aftermath of the storm to unite our community, I’m more honored than ever to support this incredible team
At our May 2025 board meeting, I concluded my term as board chair and passed the baton to the thoughtful and dedicated Heather Goldstein. I’m excited to support her leadership and will continue serving on the board
To those who have joined us recently and to those who have stood by us for years: thank you Your commitment has sustained us and made our response possible Because of your support, we were able to distribute urgently needed donations, mobilize thousands of volunteers, and connect families with critical resources through our community school coordinators and engagement team .
We’ve been through a lot, and we’ve more work ahead of us But your generosity continues to light the way forward
United Is The Way,
HIMANSHU KARVIR UWABC Board of Directors President & CEO, Virtelle Hospitality
Enka Health Hangar Ribbon Cutting! Left to right Enka Middle Principal Amberle Clarke, Buncombe County School Board Member Judy Lewis, students Catalina Figeroa and Megan Schlesinger, and United Way CEO Dan Leroy
THREE HIGHLIGHTS FY 2023-24
A New School Based Health Center
In 2024 work began to launch our third School-Based Health Center, this time, in the Enka community
After coordinating funding from Buncombe County Government, Dogwood Health Trust, the US Department of Education, and donors like you, the Enka Health Hangar was ready for operations at the start of the 2025 school year
“We were thrilled to celebrate this moment with our community and partners,” said Enka Middle Principal Amberle Clarke. “We are blessed to have this resource on our campus and are excited about raising awareness for our school-based health care center so that we can better serve the needs of our students, their families, and our community.”
School-based health centers offer comprehensive care, including medical, dental, counseling, and prescriptions to students, their families, and school staff in the district .
They are open whenever the school is open, and no student is denied services based on their ability to pay . Private and public health insurance is accepted, and sliding-scale fees are available for those who qualify
Parental/guardian consent is required for students to access health care and screenings
Two New Community Schools Launched
In 2024, we expanded our work to nine Community Schools in Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools, ensuring even more students and families have access to vital support and opportunities to thrive . Enka Intermediate and Hall Fletcher Elementary joined Asheville, Enka, Erwin, Owen, A.C. Reynolds, and North Buncombe Middle Schools, and Asheville High/SILSA.
Sharing Our Knowledge
In May 2024 representatives from communities across North Carolina and South Carolina visited us to learn more about how we (and our partners) implement Community Schools here:
“It was extremely valuable to have concrete examples of Community Schools in action that we can bring back to Central North Carolina,” said Luke Carman, Director of Community Schools Partnerships at Student U in Durham, NC. “It was even better to build community and relationships, and learn from small conversations across roles and experiences.”
YOUTH OPPORTUNITY
INNOVATING TOGETHER - LEADERSHIP REDEFINED
At United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, we believe true community change begins when every student is seen, valued for their unique gifts, and supported to shape the future we all share Our vision is rooted in co-creating a community where every person belongs, and every person thrives This isn’t just a lofty goal—it’s a promise we work toward every day through intentional collaboration, shared decision-making, and trust in the unique strengths of our neighbors and partners
One way we live this commitment is through United for Youth, a cradle-to-career, collective impact strategy we serve as the backbone for . Being the backbone doesn’t mean leading from the front—it means supporting, amplifying, and walking alongside a movement rooted in community
From its inception, United for Youth has been a community-led movement, not just in spirit, but in structure The name, the purpose, the vision—all were shaped by those who live, work, and lead in our community, including students whose lived experiences and ideas have guided the work in powerful ways
Over time, we’ve seen that shared decision-making can’t stop at consultation; it must grow into shared ownership and leadership. That’s why we’ve launched what we’re affectionately calling “United for Youth Leadership Team 2 .0”—a reimagined model that centers authentic community governance
And central to this vision is student leadership We are committed to creating spaces where young
It was a powerful opportunity to join together as a community and figure out what we need to do as adults to ensure that children are thriving.
Dr. Amieris Lavender
people have a voice—they have influence, agency, and opportunities to lead Their insights challenge us, ground us, and move us forward in ways no one else can When students are trusted to lead, entire systems begin to shift
This work is about systems change and relationship change. It’s about making decisions with, not for, each other. It’s about honoring the strengths that already exist in our community and building the future together
At United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, we don’t lead the movement—we walk with it. And we invite everyone to join in, because this is work we all own, and a future we all deserve
Intergenerational Wisdom and Leadership
In November 2023, the vision of shared intergenerational leadership and student voice came to life as we pulled together a powerful gathering of local students, Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools administrators, nonprofit leaders, and grassroots organizers—all with a shared purpose: to sustain and strengthen United for Youth
Students sat alongside school administrators, teachers, nonprofit leaders and elected officials, as equal contributors to the conversation about how the new United for Youth Leadership Team will function—and who will lead it . It was a powerful reminder that true systems change happens when those most impacted by decisions are actively shaping them
“I really enjoyed the seminar-type conversations we had with everyone. I feel like my voice got heard today and I was able to represent how I felt and how the youth of Asheville would feel. I’m excited to see where the youth leadership team will be going after this.” -- Shuyan Chen, student, T.C. Roberson High School.
COMMUNITY SCHOOL PILLARS AND PARTNERS
We believe that supporting youth doesn’t start and stop with the school bell—it means walking beside them as they dream, grow, and discover who they want to be . True student success is not just about test scores and academics; it’s about making sure our youth feel seen, supported, and inspired to pursue lives filled with joy and purpose
We’re proud to serve as the backbone organization behind some of the most tangible, transformative work happening in our schools today: Community Schools With UWABC Community School Coordinators embedded in all nine Community Schools across Asheville City and Buncombe County, we ensure that students are not only connected to resources—but to possibility
Community Schools are built on four powerful pillars:
• Expanded and Enriched Learning Time and Opportunities
• Collaborative Leadership and Practices
• Active Family and Community Engagement
• Integrated Student Supports
The benefit of Community Schools is tremendous. I would even say it’s required. We can’t do it all as school staff ourselves, so when we get to bring in the organizations that surround our schools and are part of our community, they bring their expertise, their relationships, their resources, their perspectivesand students need that. Jesse Pitt, 6th Grade Counselor Asheville Middle School
Together, these pillars form a comprehensive strategy that wraps around students, families, and our educators— creating environments where youth have opportunities to thrive
The first pillar, Expanded and Enriched Learning Time, is especially critical. We know that learning doesn’t stop at the end of the school day. Supporting our youth means connecting them to experiences that inspire them—from science camps and mentoring clubs to art, music, and coding Yet, not all students have equal access to these opportunities. That’s why UWABC works alongside schools and partners to mitigate the opportunity gap, leveraging policies, funding, and your community support to bring enriching programs to all students, regardless of background or zip code
Walk into any Community School, and you’ll see this work in action— students staying after school to explore their passions, families engaged in school life, teachers and community partners collaborating to mentor and support students in all facets of their lives
Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about systems or strategies— it’s about believing in every student’s potential and doing everything in our power to help them reach it
We’re not just preparing students for the next test— we’re preparing them for life. And thanks to your support, we’re doing this together, as a community.
JOURNEYMEN supports young men and boys ages 12–17 through mentorship, helping them navigate life’s challenges with confidence and connection. In partnership with United Way’s Community Schools, they offer safe, trauma-informed spaces for teens to grow, take responsibility, and build strong relationships
With over 90 trained mentors and collaborations like UNC Asheville’s S T E A M Studio, Journeymen connects youth to meaningful experiences— from outdoor adventures to academic support—all designed to build resilience, leadership, and lasting community
Learn more: journeymenasheville.org
ASHEVILLE CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION’S In Real Life (IRL) team members provide more than an after-school program—they are champions for youth and we are fortunate to count them as a long-standing Community School partner Led by the Asheville City Schools Foundation, IRL is a nationally award-winning after-school program that offers hands-on and inspiring experiences to every middle schooler in Asheville City Schools
At its heart, IRL is about unlocking curiosity and creativity . By partnering with over 50 community organizations and professionals, they craft youthinformed programs that truly speak to students’ interests—from cooking and biking, to exploring visual arts and learning the power of self-care . IRL creates spaces where every student can discover new passions, build confidence, and feel inspired to live a curious, joyful life—in real life.
Learn more acsf.org/irl
RIVERLINK promotes the environmental and economic vitality of the French Broad River and its watershed for all At an Erwin Middle School resource meeting, a spark was lit when Leah from RiverLink teamed up with Allison, the (now former) UWABC Community School Coordinator, to create something special for students after school They launched RiverRATS— an 8-week outdoor program that brought students to a nearby creek to explore nature up close Through hands-on lessons about water quality and ecosystems, students connected deeply with the environment, themselves, and each other . Beyond learning, RiverRATS became a place of laughter, friendship, and leadership—where young voices grew stronger
Learn more riverlink.org
COMMUNITY SCHOOLS & HURRICANE RESPONSE
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene shaped the lives of students and families across Western North Carolina in ways none of us could have predicted From displaced households and damaged infrastructure to extended periods of school closures, the storm left deep marks on our communities . But as schools reopened their doors in late October, the Community School strategy stepped in—not just to respond, but to uplift, connect, and heal
Living out the fourth pillar of Community Schools, Integrated Student Supports, our Community School Coordinators (CSC) didn’t pause; they adapted, innovated, and met the moment head-on. These schools became more than places of learning—they became hubs of care, connection, and resilience
InFive of our nine Community Schools are featured here, each playing a vital role in both immediate relief and long-term recovery Whether coordinating food distributions, organizing mental health resources, or simply listening to the needs of a shaken student body, the work was— and is—relentless and rooted in love
One standout from the year? The unprecedented number of Community Nights hosted across our schools. These gatherings, designed to reflect and celebrate each school’s unique culture, created powerful moments of healing and togetherness after the storm Families felt seen Students felt heard Communities felt whole again .
As western North Carolina continues to rebuild, the Community School strategy remains a living, breathing example of how schools and community can work together to anchor hope—even in the hardest times. This is what it looks like when education meets compassion, and recovery is truly shared. The response you’ll see in the examples that follow was only possible because of the unwavering support, generosity, and love from our donors, partners, and community Our gratitude truly knows no bounds
addition to supporting youth and families, our Community School Coordinators organized events like mindfulness sessions and staff lunches to ensure teachers and staff felt supported by the broader community. Taking care of our community’s caretakers just makes sense. Kyle Garrett, United Way’s School Partnerships Director
But our work doesn’t end with recovery—it begins there We’re deeply committed to the long-term journey of building Community Resilience—where every challenge becomes a chance to grow stronger, together.
Idon’t know what we would have done without the support of United Way after the storm. The tangible support for our teachers and staff, our students, and our families has helped us get through. It has been a game-changer.” Bradley McMahan, Owen Middle School Principal, Swannanoa
All our Community School Coordinators were vital support to their schools: helping conduct wellness checks on students and families, as well as coordinating basic needs supply hubs at many of the schools and even making deliveries to families
OWEN MIDDLE SCHOOL initially served as a hub for utility workers And they hosted a community day where families could gather, play, and access essential supplies
At A.C. REYNOLDS MIDDLE SCHOOL more than 200 people attended a Cookies and Coats Community Night, where 350 warm weather gear items were distributed
ERWIN MIDDLE SCHOOL cleared sections of the school-based health center and transformed into a resource room providing food, clean water, and clothing to area families They organized Highland K9 who brought 10 service dogs for student and staff mental health
At HALL FLETCHER ELEMENTARY, we supported a community wide warehouse while setting up a resource room on the school campus The space is fully stocked with donations from across the nation and serves students, families, and educators
NORTH BUNCOMBE MIDDLE SCHOOL Home Economics classrooms transformed to resource rooms for families. And transportation was organized so families could attend the first Community Night since Helene .
Sarah Roth, UWABC's Helene Recovery Initiatives Director capturing input during a community session We are serving in an administrative role as the Buncombe County Long-Term Recovery Group gets established and can assume operations .
CIVIC INFRASTRUCTURE
Natural disasters test the strength of our civic infrastructure—and remind us why they matter
When Helene hit, our team immediately connected with city and county leadership We established a daily presence in the Emergency Operations Center, and jumped into action when and where needed
We also leaned on wisdom from other United Way communities shaped by crises like Katrina, Sandy, and the Maui fires. Their guidance was invaluable. And, as it did during the pandemic, we were reminded of the power of being a part of the United Way network
Our deep roots and trusted network of partners uniquely position us to respond quickly in times of crisis. Relationships built over years became the foundation for fast, effective action.
Since then, we’ve focused on strengthening those connections: aligning with local leaders, working with United Way of NC to update NC211 with real-time local resources, and helping launch the Buncombe County Long-Term Recovery Group that will support survivors on their path to rebuild their lives and prepare our community for what’s next.
In moments like these, we don’t just need to recover— we have an opportunity to build a stronger, more connected community for the future
FUNDRAISING AND FUND DISTRIBUTION
Among the things that United Way is most known for, and has an infrastructure to manage, it is our ability to raise funds and get them out into the community
Stewarding donations for the Helene Relief efforts has been a true honor for our team From California to Vermont and everywhere in between, contributions from $5 to $500,000 came pouring in Businesses and artists stepped up with t-shirt sales, book tours, concerts, and more And we received essential support from United Way of NC and United Way Worldwide’s Disaster Relief campaigns
Every gift, of any size, shows our shared humanity and the power of compassion .
Early on our board approved a funding strategy for Helene funds: 30% was to be made available immediately for relief efforts, 60% to be used for long-term recovery, and 10% for UWABC-led work.
To date, we’ve sent more than $2.3M to area nonprofits for direct assistance to families. This means funds for housing, utilities and other life necessities and includes more than $1.7M to Grace Covenant, one of the largest direct assistance providers in the area.
We’re committed to relying on community wisdom on how best to distribute funds and providing you with ongoing transparency as to how these dollars are used
Visit unitedwayabc.org/hurricane-helene for more.
Aisha Shepherd, UWABC's VP of Community Engagement (left) with Kerry at the Big Ivy Community Center as she distributed direct assistance funds to the Barnardsville area and gathered more input on what was needed
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
THE POWER OF VOLUNTEERS
Mobilizing volunteers is in our DNA The foundation of our organization is built on the idea that we all have a stake in each other’s success and that we each can contribute our sweat, wisdom, and/or funds to ensure all can thrive
In fact, our volunteer center has been helping to recruit people to support the work of area nonprofits since the early 1970s
We were grateful to have not only the experience and relationships to support Helene Relief and Recovery efforts, we also had the infrastructure. We were ready because of you, our long time supporters.
Wehad never operated a distribution warehouse before. We never operated a Disaster Volunteer Reception Center either. Even with our decades of experience, these weren’t things that any of us had ever done before...but we worked really well together to just figure it out and get it done. I am really proud of how everybody - staff, local volunteers, and supporters from across the nation worked together. Denise Gonzalez, United Way’s Director of Volunteer Engagement
Kevin Montgomery, UWABC’s VP of Resource Development
gathers a first wave of volunteers outside our building .
Before the Federal program was cut, 8 AmeriCorps NCCC members organized 1,199 volunteers, assisted over 10,000 people looking for resources, distributed more than 22,000 pounds of food, and provided essential supplies, clothing, and meals
From creating book bundles for children to organizing disaster relief sites, the impact was both tangible and deeply felt . But more than the tasks they completed, it's the deep emotional support they provided to hundreds of our neighbors in some of the most devastating situations of their lives, that will linger long after their departure
Iwas so impressed and inspired by how dedicated our AmeriCorps folks were. They worked tirelessly in wind, rain, and dark to make sure our community had the resources they needed. Without Devlyn and Daniel, Appalachian Community Relief leadership would not have had the supplemental administrative support we so desperately needed. It was inspiring to see how they became a part of the community as they worked side by side with locals. Allison Hargus, Appalachian Community Relief, Black Mountain
With our central location, deep-rooted connections, and trusted partnerships, UWABC was already positioned to set up a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) quickly and effectively In just three weeks of this initiative being set up, we brought in 355 drop-in volunteers who contributed an incredible 1,742 hours of service These were friends, neighbors, and even outof-town folks, all stepping up to be part of the recovery With guidance from deployed FEMA and National Voluntary Agency Liaisons, the VRC was a joint effort with Buncombe County Government and Lutheran Disaster Relief
WhenUnited Way said they needed a forklift driver I said ‘Well I have a license’ so I’ve been here running this lift for about 8 hours a day, moving all the donations that are coming in and it’s mindblowing. I talked to two guys who drove all the way up here from New Orleans yesterday with a truckload and they turned around and went back to get another. Beverly Hanks has always been a major player with United Way and it’s just part of our life. When you make a living in a community you give back to the community and that’s what we do.
Bill Miller, Realtor, Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks
MEMORIALS
Remembering those whose lasting contributions continue to inspire and guide our work
DIONNE GREENLEE
Some people move through the world with a quiet kind of power, one rooted in love, shaped by purpose Dionne Greenlee was one of those rare souls We at United Way were lucky to walk alongside her .
Dionne joined our team in 2017, first answering calls as an NC 211 Information and Referral Specialist, then lifting stories and building relationships on our Resource Development team Even after she left our staff, she stayed close, serving on our Board of Directors and more recently helping lead the Buncombe County Long-Term Recovery Group, a new, community-rooted effort to help families heal after the storm
No matter the role, Dionne led with heart As a 211 specialist, she was a steady voice in the storm—offering not just help, but hope As a fundraiser, she told stories that stirred generosity and opened doors She wrote with clarity, conviction, and care
Dionne co-chaired our early diversity, equity, and inclusion work, planting seeds that would grow into our Equity Change Team. Dionne didn’t just talk about justice; she lived it. She held us accountable. She asked: Are you truly listening to the people most affected?
In recent months, as part of the Long-Term Recovery Group’s Steering Committee, she brought that same unwavering dedication . She believed in collaboration, in innovation, and in lifting up the strengths already present in our community She worked so others could heal
Dionne had a way of seeing you, really seeing you . She made people feel important, cherished, and held Kiesha Lewis, a former 211 teammate, shared: “We always seemed to bump into each other at the perfect time. We’d talk for so long, forgetting who we were with. She gave the best hugs. I’ll miss that.”
When the world turned upside down in 2020, Dionne returned to the phones as a volunteer, comforting voices on the other end with calm and care Amanda Bauman, former 211 director, remembered: “She never stopped advocating for the people of WNC. I’m grateful I got to work with her again when she recruited me to Impact Health. ”
We will miss you, Dionne. Your fierce grace. Your bold love. Your unwavering belief in what’s possible. We promise to carry your light forward
BILL MANCE
had been a Leadership Donor and volunteer since the mid 1990s Over the years he rolled up his sleeves for volunteer projects and served on a host of committees including Peaks Development, Investments, Campaign Cabinet -- Retiree Division, and the Board of Directors . In the late 90s, we hosted a series of workshops to increase representation by Black and Brown community members on local nonprofit boards. Bill served as a trainer and mentor, and provided leadership to help nonprofit staff recognize their own unconscious bias. No matter his role, Bill’s critical mind and thoughtful spirit led the way and helped us become a stronger organization
TOM SOBOL was a true servant leader—deeply rooted in the needs of this community and always ready to serve with both wisdom and heart . As our Campaign Chair, he brought a profound understanding of issues like childhood hunger, aging, and poverty, shaped by his leadership on the Buncombe County Commission He was a passionate supporter of First Call for Help/211 and our Volunteer Center, always championing the vital role they played in the lives of Buncombe County residents Tom led with authenticity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the people he served .
BOBBIE EBLEN
The Eblen family, founders of Biltmore Oil and Eblen Short Stops, have shaped our community through four generations of business and giving Joe and Bobbie Eblen were among our most dedicated supporters, with Bobbie carrying their shared commitment forward after Joe’s passing . Through her love and leadership, the Eblens set a powerful example of what it means for a local business to give back—from a humble yard sale that launched The Eblen Foundation to their generous support of countless causes, including United Way Their legacy of compassion lives on .
MICKEY GOODMAN
A long time Tocqueville member, Mickey could best be described as a “thoughtful and generous cynic.” Always ready with some probing questions, you could see both his concern for our community and his commitment to seeing us succeed His contributions of thought partnership will be missed .
TOM LESLIE supported so many good works throughout our community over the years We were proud to have him as a Tocquville member and call him a friend
JIM OLIVER A visionary engineer, Jim was a champion of innovation, education, and community . He led with heart and humility, always prioritizing Asheville and his employees at AvL Technologies His quiet philanthropy and enduring legacy made an indelible impact on United Way and many nonprofits in Asheville, and on the local economy.
JERRY STERNBERG was a one-of-a-kind force in our community—sharp, generous, and full of heart A loyal supporter of many organizations, Jerry paid attention . He asked the tough questions, stayed informed, and held us all to a higher standard But Jerry also knew how to make people smile. He often arrived at events in a suit, cowboy hat and, more often than not, his own “light” beer in hand; he liked what he liked and made no apologies. Jerry blended down-home wisdom with real-world savvy, and never lost sight of the people behind the work. We’ll miss his humor, his heart, and his unwavering presence in the life of this community
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARDEES
Thank you to all who attended the 2024 Community Impact Awards Dinner It is an honor to celebrate the people that make our community a stronger place for all Special thanks to the 2024 presenting sponsor, Capstone Health Alliance and award sponsors, Colton Groome, DMJPS, GreyBeard Realty, MAHEC, Modera, and Van Winkle Law Firm .
JULIA DARITY Live United Award
This award honors those whose passion and voice are used to ensure all can thrive Julia Darity, a dynamic youth advocate from Asheville, inspires peers and adults alike with her commitment to social justice From speaking on major stages to guiding community decisions, Julia leads with purpose, ensuring youth perspectives are at the heart of lasting change .
HEKMET BESSIO Volunteer of the Year
In the short 10 months since arriving in the US, Hekmet Bessio contributed more than 220 hours to 13 local nonprofits. Her impact has been profound And, like a seed growing into a tree that feeds many, Hekmet shared that her passion and generosity stem from her Palestinian roots. It’s clear to us she embodies the heart and spirit of the Hands On Volunteer of the Year Award .
SUSANNE SWANGER Women United Award
The Taylor Foss Women United Award honors a standout member of the affinity group. Susanne Swanger’s leadership—as both former United Way Board Chair and Associate Superintendent of Buncombe County Schools—helped lay the foundation for Community Schools and United for Youth, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people in our community
JAMYE DAVIS Circle of Hope Award
This award honors a nonprofit professional whose leadership leaves a lasting legacy . For 25 years, Jamye Davis poured her heart into Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC, championing its mission and, above all, the youth it serves Her steadfast dedication, compassion, and impact have shaped countless lives and strengthened our community for generations
SYBIL JEFFERSON Gamechanger Award
As an alumna of Asheville High School, Sybil Jefferson is a generational leader who is deeply invested in giving back to her community through her love and support of our community’s youth.
Her leadership and dedication help to ensure that the community school strategy is successful makes her a true gamechanger in the field of education.
BLUE RIDGE POWER Spirit of the Mountains
Blue Ridge Power is “all-in” for our community Through generous investments, expert support, and hands-on involvement, they made solar panels at United Way a reality— advancing sustainability while redirecting energy savings to help local youth thrive Their commitment is a shining example of what this award is about: showing what business leadership can look like and the lasting impact it can have
Didn’t You Just Hold Another Awards Ceremony?
Yes we did! And we’ll feature those inspiring awardees in our 2025 Annual Report which will come out toward the start of the new year Don’t want to wait? Visit our website to see the video testimonials from those awardees here:
Tocqueville Society
2024 Community Service Awardees
Asheville and Buncombe County’s Tocqueville Society has been a pivotal force in advancing our mission to build a united and resilient community, convening local leaders who pledge annual donations of $10,000 or more and often assume leadership roles within the organization
The Tocqueville Society Community Service Award honors individuals or families whose volunteerism and generosity embody Alexis de Tocqueville’s appreciation for American neighborly collaboration. In February our community came together to honor two families for their contributions.
Pat and Junius Grimes
In 2002, the Alexis de Tocqueville Community Service Award was created to honor the most generous leaders in our community who embody this spirit of volunteerism Two sisters, Barbara Blomberg and Marilyn Patton, and Marilyn’s husband, Buddy, were selected as the first recipients, setting a powerful example that inspires future awardees
So it is no great surprise that Marilyn and Buddy’s daughter, Pat Grimes, and her husband, Junius, would also embody the best of philanthropy: giving generously and inspiring others to follow their example Pat served on United Way’s board of directors for 6 years and has long supported a workplace campaign at the family’s business, Harry’s on The Hill. She has championed local schools from K-12 through UNCA, with support for social workers and athletic programs (and everything in between) They support efforts with their name when needed and quietly contribute to smaller campaigns regularly. “Salt of the Earth,” humble, generous, kind, caring, quiet, and impactful were just a few of the ways community members described this incredible couple
Amy and Neal Hanks
Neal and Amy embody the values of love, generosity, and service, and through their leadership, western North Carolina has become a more compassionate place Their influence inspires others to lead lives full of purpose, faith, and generosity
Their long-standing dedication to the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County speaks volumes Amy has been a board member since 2023 and currently serves as the Tocqueville Society Co-Chair . She has also contributed as a Campaign Volunteer and as part of the Centennial Steering Committee Together, Neal and Amy have brought their business expertise to the nonprofits they support, enriching the United Way with both innovative ideas and genuine care
Neal served as United Way Board Chair from 2015 to 2017 and led the organization’s campaign efforts. In addition to his work with United Way, he has served on numerous boards, including those of Eblen Charities, the Daniel Boone Council of Boy Scouts of America, First Citizens Bank, A-B Tech Foundation, and the Mission Health Foundation. Neal and Amy’s contributions have been recognized with the WNC Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Business in Philanthropy Award .
Their colleagues and employees agree that the Allen Tate community owes much of its success to Neal and Amy’s unwavering commitment to giving, without hesitation . They are role models for all, especially for future generations, teaching that true community leadership is about action—not just words—and stepping up whenever there’s a need.
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP Committee
Memberships 2023-2024
Thank you to all our FY24 volunteers. Your wisdom and talent strengthened our efforts To see our current board leadership, visit unitedwayabc org/board-directors
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Himanshu Karvir, Board Chair
Heather Goldstein, Chair-Elect
Zo Mpofu, Vice-Chair
Chip Craig, Treasurer
Andy Gmitter, Secretary
Shelia Christofalos, Director
Dan Leroy, President and CEO
Committee Leadership
Resource Development
Shelia Christofalos, Chair
Jennifer Boyer
Tim Bugg
Heather Goldstein
Jessie Goodwin
Brent Russell
Stephen Shoaf
Ashley Smith
Tocqueville Society
Amy Hanks, Co-Chair
Dr William Hathaway, Co-Chair
Peaks Society
Brent Russell, Chair
Clint Cogburn
Jennifer Marlowe
Jessica Rivers
Lucy Rountree
Page Sigmon
Women United
Jenny Boyer, Co-Chair
Ashley Smith, Co-Chair
Elizabeth Allen
Faith Doyle
Ashley Gragtmans
Retire
United
Steve Shoaf, Chair
Carol McLimans
Melinda Raab
Lee Ann Russell
Highlands Circle
Jessie Goodwin, Chair
Dakota Owenby
Kyle El Homsi
Lindsey Cotner
Sydney Cole
Nominating / Governance
Andy Gmitter, Chair
Giannina Callejas
Heather Goldstein
Dionne Greenlee
Directors
Khabonina Beresford
Tim Bugg
Giannina Callejas
Debra Campbell
Jamye Davis
Dionne Greenlee
Amy Hanks
Finance
Robert McArthur, Chair
Michael Cortes
Chip Craig
Michael Figuera
Leonard Jones
Himanshu Karvir
Eric Michael
David Worley
Investment Subcommittee
Chip Craig
Layton Hower
Robert McArthur
Maui Vang
David Worley
Facilities Advisory
Chip Craig, Chair
Tim Bugg
Sean Comeaux
Philip Cooper
Michael Cortes
Mark DeVerges
Amanda Frick Keiser
Dr William R Hathaway
Melissa N Hedt
Layton Hower
Tyshaun “Ty” Johnson
Robert McArthur
Kevin McDonald
Emma Olson
Jennifer Reed
Niconda Garcia
John Legerton
Robert McArthur
Rusty Pulliam
David Ross
Jason Walls
Equity Change Team
Khabonina Beresford
Jennifer Griffin
Rev Tami Forte-Logan
Tyshaun “Ty” Johnson
Angélica Wind
LaVie Montgomery
Emma Olson
Community Investment
Jasmine Bright
Julia Darity
Niconda Garcia
Iliana Hernandez
Robyn Josephs
LaVie Montgomery
Kyla Morton
Ashley Smith
John Sutton
Susanne Swanger
Maui Vang
Glenn Wilcox
Angélica Wind
David Worley
U4Y LT
Jasmine Bright
Shuyen Chen
Julia Darity
Tiffany DeBellott
Dr Maggie Fehrman
Oliver Lee Finch
Niconda Garcia
Michael L Hayes
Amber King
Dr Donna Lanahan
Dr Amieris Lavender
Kyla Morton
Rachael Nygaard
Lindsay Rice
Kim Robinson
Copland Rudolph
Toshia Sitton
Takina Thomas
FY 24 Financials
REVIEW OUR 990 AND ANNUAL AUDIT ANY TIME unitedwayabc.org/fiscal-transparency
EVERY ONE OF US Giving Societies and
At the heart of United Way is the belief that every one of us has an important role to play in creating a community where everyone belongs and everyone thrives
So to every one of our donors, thank you for standing up for your neighbors and believing in our mission.
We are pleased to recognize all our donors online at unitedwayabc org/our-donors or scan the QR code below to visit this page
Affinity Groups
Close to half of donations made by individual donors are made by members of our two giving societies: The Tocqueville Society and The Peaks Society And many of those donors also participate in one of our three affinity groups: Women United, Highlands Circle, and Retire United . Through these groups we try to create meaningful opportunities for our donors to connect with our work, the issues we aim to improve, and each other .
You can learn more about these groups online at unitedwayabc.org/leadership-giving or scan the code below.
LEARN ABOUT GIVING SOCIETIES
GIVING SOCIETIES & AFFINITY GROUPS
July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024
FULL DONOR LIST
VISIT: UNITEDWAYABC.ORG/OUR-DONORS
We are deeply grateful to our giving societies, affinity groups, loyal Diamond Donors, and those who included United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County in their planned giving Your partnership means a great deal to us, and we hope you’re as proud of your impact as we are to have your support
TOCQUEVILLE SOCIETY
La Société Nationale
$100,000 - 249,999
Bart and Elaine Boyer
Membres de la Société
$10,000 - 24,999
Marla T and Joel B Adams, Jr
Ruth and Ron Billings
Travis and Jenny Boyer
Drs Cindy and David Brown
Joe and Janice Brumit
Tracy and Scott Buchanan
Linda and Tim Bugg
Glenda and Bob Burgin
Ken and Lisa Carrig
Kit and Mark Cramer
David and Suzanne DeFerie
Drs Lee and Mario* Dicesare
Dawn and Walt Dickinson
Kelly and Chris Dunbar
* indicates deceased
If you made an additional gift to support Helene Recovery, a full acknowledgment will appear in next year’s report. For now, those who made gifts toward recovery before December 31, 2024 have been included alphabetically at the end of this report in an effort to acknowledge the incredible efforts of our community
Ordre de Fraternité
$75,000 - 99,999
Mr and Mrs Charles J Silver
Ordre d’ Egalité
$50,000 - 74,999
In memory of S.M. “Buddy” and Marilyn Patton Given by Barbara Blomberg, Lynn Patton, Patricia Patton Grimes, and Harry Patton
Traci and Ricky Silver
Robert C Pew and Susan Taylor
Ordre de Liberté
$25,000 - 49,999
Ed and Donna Broadwell
Kay Goodman
Mr and Mrs W Neal Hanks, Jr
Drs Wayne* and Phyllis Lang*
Bill and Heather Lee
Barbra and Keith Love
Jerry Sternberg* and Marlene Breger-Joyce
Jennie Eblen and Rick Perkins
Dr W Leon Elliston
Ernest and Shirley Ferguson
Tom and Kay Finger
Mr Donald Flow
Gary and Taylor Foss
David and Charise Gantt
Drs John and Janet Garrett
Susan and Hugh Greene
David Greiner and James Gray
Junius and Pat Grimes
George and Barbara Groome
Mr. and Mrs. James Hefley
Ken and Jane Hughes
Randy and Mary Johnson
Dr and Mrs Robert Kieffer
The Kushigian Legacy
Tom* and Lyn Leslie
Greg & Lee Lowe
Charlotte Lundsford Berry
David and Marjorie McGuirk
Andrea McNair
Lee and Rob Merrill
Dawson and Susan Mims
Jim and Pat Morris
Butch and Kathy Patrick
Bill and Joyce Sederburg
Debra and Jeff Slosman
Brad and Shelli Stanback
Bernie and Sue Stanek
Jim and Robin Stickney
Jana and Dana Stonestreet
Mr and Mrs John D Teeter
Jim & Pam Turner
Warren and Lauren Wall
David and Joy Wiggins
Drs Win and Meg Word-Sims
David and Dianne Worley
Dr Michael and Ann Young and 2 Anonymous Donors
THE PEAKS SOCIETY
Mount Mitchell
$7,500 - 9,999
Liz and Todd Britton
William S and Beth Durr
Himanshu Karvir and Swati Patel
Dennis and Tara Theodossis
Clyde and Mildred Wright*
Kuwohi
$5,000 - 7,499
Brett and Angie Cannady
Dr E Brown Crosby
Dan and Teri Deitz
Bobbie Eblen*
Mr and Mrs Dale Freudenberge
Dan and Barbara Gerber
Whitney Hewitt
Peter and Diane Jones
Richard Kark
Bitsy and Jim Powell
Mrs Brainard B Rorison*
Rickie Sue Smith
John and Kathy Tempelaar-Lietz
Dr and Mrs Randall Vanderbeek
Doug and Kelley Wehrkamp
Susan and Thomas Withrow and 3 Anonymous Donors
Roan Mountain
$4,000 - 4,999
John Brosowsky
Richard and Bridget Eckerd
Michael and Elizabeth Freeman
Melissa M Hicks, MD and Ann D Brown, CNM, MSN
Laurel Jernigan
Dan and Marin Leroy
Virginia and Drew Litzenberger
Denise Snodgrass
David Stewart
Dr John R Hoskins IV and Ms Laura A
Webb
Richland Balsam
$3,000 - 3,999
Dick and Judy Allen
David D Bailey and Sherie Ryan-Bailey
George and Sandra Beverly
Jim and Lisa Clark
Carrie and Steve Coward
Miles and Millicent Elmore
Carolyn and Tom Fehsenfeld
Beth and Randy Fluharty
Hank and Sarah Garbee
Sharon and William Hathaway
Elizabeth W Holden
Patsy R Keever
Liz and John Kimberly
Dr and Mrs William T Maddox
Dr and Mrs Alexander Maitland, III*
Rebecca and Rick Manske
George W and Judith C Morosani
Mr and Mrs Richard E Nelson, Jr *
Yolanda and Gary Parker
Shelly and Scott Powell
Bob Roberts
Howard and Cynthia Sellinger
Mr and Mrs Canie B Smith
Frank S Smith*
Terence Van Arkel and 2 Anonymous Donors
Cold Mountain
$2,000 - 2,999
Derek and Elizabeth Allen
Linda and Jerry Ariail
Stuart Bell
Jack and Jenifer Bolton
Virginia and John Brand
James E Brazell
Parker Brock
Michael L Brubaker
Mr Luke Bukoski
Nat and Anne Burkhardt
Ms Cathy Byers
Tom and Cathy Byers
Debra D Campbell
Charlotte Caplan and Michael Brubaker
Dr Pamela and Mr Chris Cavanaugh
Shelia and Nick Christofalos
Jeff and Susan Covington
Mrs Wendy A Craig
Hilary Davenport
Al and Jamye Davis
Madeline Davis*
Jerry DeLand
Traci DiBlasio
J Stephen Downey and Gail E Ely
Christopher Eller
Dr and Mrs Marshall Fields
Brian and Leah Gillespie
Jeremy and Heather Goldstein
Barbara and Jeff Gould
Clementine Gregory
Matt Groome
Benjamin and Bonnie Hamrick
Larry and LuAnn Harris
Vicki S Heidinger
Mr Joseph M Lawrence
Dan and Jennifer Loizzo
Sandy and Marty Martin
The McClinton Family
Jim Samsel and Kim McGuire
Kevin and Shionette Montgomery
Sue and Charlie Mueller
Bill and Amy Myers
Jonathan and Christine Nelson
Kevin & Julee Nunley
Keith and Patty Olbrantz
Michael Palecki
Cal and Kit Rains
Amira and Tom Ranney
Jonathan J Robinson and Kelly McCanless
Lee Ann and Brent Russell
Dr Alex and Mrs Lynn Schneider
Eric Schober
Ann H Skoglund
Ashley and Keith Smith
Anthony Stroupe
Dr Michael J Teaford
Ed and Cindy Towson
Ms Teri G Tracy
Pete and Pat Wallenborn
Damian and Hayley Wells
Jennifer and Hunter Westbrook
Martin White
Jon Wilson
Wes and Stephanie Wright
Michelle and Joe Yanik
and 8 Anonymous Donors
$1,500 - 1,999
Georganna and Scott Adams
Erin Bowers
Mark and Amy Brewer
Daniel and Linda Brown
Dr and Mrs Terry Burt
Alex Carr
Sarah and Dave Cash
Georgeanna Adams
Kelly and Randy Davis
Nick and Kris Dionne
Jarid E Ethridge
Kent Gatling
Jan and Bob Gelder
Tige Hopper
Keith Houghton
Dwayne and Kelly Hudgins
Aaron Huston
Austin Johnson
Mrs Jane Knight
Mark and Lisa Lindsay
Clint Lloyd
Joseph Luna and Paula O’Hara
Lance Martin and Anne Conquest
Clary McCall
RJ McClure
Kevin McDonald
Robert and Barbara Peterson
Avril Pinder
Bob and Becky Pitts
Ryan Rohwer
John M Rozier Jr
Dianne and Charles Sawyer
Jason Seavey
Laurie and Dave Serfas
Bob and Brenda Shepherd
Steve and Carole Shoaf
Phil and Pat Smith
Donna and Allan Tarleton
Fran and Doug Thigpen
Mrs Colleen Thompson
Brian Traynham
Drs Eric and Susan Van Tassel
Karl Von Ruck* Cemetery Fund
Larry and Janie Wilson
William M Winkler
Derrick T Woodbury
Charles and Nancy Worley
Wutschel Family
Chris and Nina Young
Andrea and Boris Younger and 4 Anonymous Donors
Shining Rock
$1,000 - 1,499
Dr Jennifer L Abbott
Bob and Peg Adams
Donita Allen
Gabrielle F Amato
Tommy and Gene Arnold
Joe and Cheryl Aull
Charles and Stephanie Baer
Barbara M Baskerville
Terri Blankenship
Brianna, Bryan, and Owen Bobo
Elisabeth Bocklet and Rita Scott
Tom Bolton
Carl and Michelle Branham
Grant Brown
Marty Brown
Adam Brunella
John D Buchanan
Sandra Byrd
Mr Kevin Campbell
Tom and Scottie Cannon
RADM Walter H and Elizabeth Cantrell
Leslie and Joseph Carreiro
Robert L Carter
Dr and Mrs William Chambers
Charles and Patricia Sloan Clogston
Clint Cogburn
Michael and Lynn Cook
Jeanne and Charlie Cummings
Jeffrey and Susan Curtis
The deVerges Family
Tony & Rebecca Doty
Christine and James Dozier
Steven Dozier
Diane Demetris-Duermit
Jade Dundas
Kenneth Edwards
Alexander Epstein
Mrs Leslie and Sam Franklin
Michael Gempe
Andy Gmitter
Shirley and Harvey Gold
Jessie Goodwin
Desiree Greene
Thomas and Elaine Grella
Anna Grimes Hammerbeck
Jim and Sheri Groce
Tate and Anna Groome
Jody A Guokas
Randall C Hall and George D Zourzoukis
Lisa Hart
Alice H and William A Hart, Jr
Tom & Marie Hartye
Rex and Peggy Henderson
Edward Stoll and Nancy Herbert
Leslie and Jim Hill
Jim and Nancy Hoer
Mr Harold R Hogstrom
Renee and Andrew Howell
Michele Torino Hower and Layton Hower
Tracee Humes
Richard Hurley
Eric and Linda Iovacchini
William and Tara Irby
Taylor and Lori Jessee
Aletha and Lyle Johnson
Pamela Johnson
Todd and Katherine Kaderabek
Ron and Sharon Katz
Kimberly Kelley
Mike and Donna Kellis
James Kelton
Ann Batchelder and Henri Kieffer
Frances A Killian
Dr Harald Kowa
Dr and Mrs Kenneth Kubitschek
Rich and Suzy Landau
John Legerton and Kathy Meacham
Mr Henry Richard and Bernice Levy
Mr Timothy O Lewis
Ryan Love
Dr Sally Ludlum
Rick and Janna Lutovsky
Martin and Kathryn Mann
Larry and Dershie McDevitt
Michelle McElroy
Frank and Chelsea McGowan
Matt McMaster
Steve and Kay Nesbitt
Stephan C Nunez
Kelli D Owen
Timothy Owen
Eric Pater
Stacee and Dean Peterson
Ben and Jeanne Powell
Randy Prause
Mr Donald G Price
Mr Darin A Prosser
Natalia Rabin
John and Karen Rhodin
Donna Lentz Richardson
Miss Monte Richardson *
Mary Kate Rikard
Larry Rogers
Maria Roloff
Drs John and Constance Russell
Bruce and Teresa Jo Sampson
Mary Margaret and Wade Saunders
Nancy Schuman
Dr and Mrs Robert Scully
Zachary C Senn
Kristi Shrum
Page Sigmon
Ross and Martha Sloan
Julie Smith
Albert and Barrie Sneed
Mrs Haley Maria Stamey
Richard Stamey
Michael Stevenson
Samuel M Stickney
Mr Edward Sidney Stoll
Kerry & Ben Strupp
Greg and Anna Sullins
Jamie Surrett
Celisa Sutton
Dan and Donna Swift
Henry J Taylor
Ray and Angela Tedder
Shirley Tenney
Mr Drake Spence Thomas
Hunter Toothman
Gillian Tosatto
Randy and Kathleen Treiber
Brian Turner and Hope Turpin
James Tyson
Adriane VanDoren
Karen Vernon and Drake Thomas
Claire and Larry Versteegh
Ann Von Brock and Sherman Fearing
Katie Wadington
John Warren
Casey Watkins
Brunhilda Weber
Helen Clemmons Wernet and Bob Wernet Jr
Angi West Family
Ann Whaley
Molly and John Whatley
Jody Whitehurst
Glenn and Pauline* Wilcox
Heather Wingert
Rachel Wood
Richard A Wood, Jr *
Mary Bruce and Stephen W Woody
Scott and Nona Workman
William and Benita Wynn
Mr Vincent Yockel
10 Anonymous Donors
Our organization has participated in annual giving campaigns and day of caring/impact events for decades. Our employees relish the opportunity to combine their efforts and resources for the betterment of our communities and the United Way provides a cohesive way to do so. Neal Hanks, Allen Tate | Beverly-Hanks Realtors
DIAMOND DONORS GIVING
FOR 25 YEARS OR MORE
TOCQUEVILLE AND PEAKS SOCIETIES
Bob and Peg Adams
Marla T and Joel B Adams, Jr
Dick and Judy Allen
Tommy and Gene Arnold
Joe and Cheryl Aull
Charles and Stephanie Baer
David D Bailey and Sherie Ryan-Bailey
Barbara M Baskerville
George and Sandra Beverly
In memory of S.M. “Buddy” and Marilyn Patton. Given by Barbara Blomberg, Lynn Patton, Grimes
Elisabeth Bocklet and Rita Scott
Tom Bolton
Bart and Elaine Boyer
James E Brazell
Ed and Donna Broadwell
Daniel and Linda Brown
Drs Cindy and David Brown
Joe and Janice Brumit
Tracy and Scott Buchanan
Glenda and Bob Burgin
Nat and Anne Burkhardt
Dr and Mrs Terry Burt
Tom and Cathy Byers
Debra D Campbell
Tom and Scottie Cannon
Charlotte Caplan and Michael Brubaker
Leslie and Joseph Carreiro
Robert L Carter
Dr and Mrs William Chambers
Jeff and Susan Covington
Kit and Mark Cramer
Dr E Brown Crosby
Al and Jamye Davis
Kelly and Randy Davis
David and Suzanne DeFerie
Dan and Teri Deitz
Traci DiBlasio
Christine and James Dozier
Diane Demetris-Duermit
William S and Beth Durr
Richard and Bridget Eckerd
Kenneth Edwards
Dr W Leon Elliston
Miles and Millicent Elmore
Ernest and Shirley Ferguson
Tom and Kay Finger
Beth and Randy Fluharty
Gary and Taylor Foss
Michael and Elizabeth Freeman
David and Charise Gantt
Hank and Sarah Garbee
Jan and Bob Gelder
Dan and Barbara Gerber
Shirley and Harvey Gold
Barbara and Jeff Gould
Clementine Gregory
Jim and Sheri Groce
George and Barbara Groome
Randall C Hall and George D Zourzoukis
Alice H and William A Hart, Jr
Tom & Marie Hartye
Mr. and Mrs. James Hefley
Vicki S Heidinger
Edward Stoll and Nancy Herbert
Melissa M Hicks, MD and Ms Ann D Brown
Leslie and Jim Hill
Elizabeth W Holden
Richard Hurley
Eric and Linda Iovacchini
Vicki Jenest
Randy and Mary Johnson
Peter and Diane Jones
Richard Kark
Ron and Sharon Katz
Patsy R Keever
Ann Batchelder and Henri Kieffer
Dr and Mrs Robert Kieffer
Frances A Killian
Liz and John Kimberly
Rich and Suzy Landau
Bill and Heather Lee
John Legerton and Kathy Meacham
Mark and Lisa Lindsay
Virginia and Drew Litzenberger
Barbra and Keith Love
Amy and Lee Loy
Dr Sally Ludlum
Joseph Luna and Paula O’Hara
Charlotte Lunsford Berry
Rick and Janna Lutovsky
Dr and Mrs William T Maddox
Martin and Kathryn Mann
The McClinton Family
Larry and Dershie McDevitt
Frank and Chelsea McGowan
Jim Samsel and Kim McGuire
Lee and Rob Merrill
Kevin and Shionette Montgomery
George W and Judith C Morosani
Sue and Charlie Mueller
Jonathan and Christine Nelson
Keith and Patty Olbrantz
Timothy Owen
Yolanda and Gary Parker
Butch and Kathy Patrick
Dean Peterson
Robert and Barbara Peterson
Robert C Pew and Susan Taylor
Bob and Becky Pitts
Bitsy and Jim Powell
Randy Prause
Bob Roberts
Rev and Mrs Scott B Rogers
Drs John and Constance Russell
Bruce and Teresa Jo Sampson
Mary Margaret and Wade Saunders
Dianne and Charles Sawyer
Dr and Mrs Robert Scully
Howard and Cynthia Sellinger
Laurie and Dave Serfas
Bob and Brenda Shepherd
Steve and Carole Shoaf
Mr and Mrs Charles J Silver
Traci and Ricky Silver
Ann H Skoglund
Ross and Martha Sloan
Mr and Mrs Canie B Smith
Phil and Pat Smith
Rickie Sue Smith
Albert and Barrie Sneed
Denise Snodgrass
Michael Stevenson
David Stewart
Jim and Robin Stickney
Jana and Dana Stonestreet
Dan and Donna Swift
Dr Michael J Teaford
Mr and Mrs John D Teeter
John and Kathy Tempelaar-Lietz
Shirley Tenney
Ed and Cindy Towson
Jim & Pam Turner
James Tyson
Drs Eric and Susan Van Tassel
Dr and Mrs Randall Vanderbeek
Karen Vernon and Drake Thomas
Ann Von Brock and Sherman Fearing
Warren and Lauren Wall
Pete and Pat Wallenborn
Dr John R Hoskins IV
Doug and Kelley Wehrkamp
Jennifer and Hunter Westbrook
Glenn and Pauline* Wilcox
Larry and Janie Wilson
William M Winkler
Mary Bruce and Stephen W Woody
Drs Win and Meg Word-Sims
Wes and Stephanie Wright
Michelle and Joe Yanik
Chris and Nina Young
Dr Michael and Ann Young
7 Anonymous Donors
LEGACY DONORS PLANNED GIVING
Mr and Mrs Bailey
Bart and Elaine Boyer
Jon and Kelly Brandon
Joe and Janice Brumit
Robert and Shirley Burns*
J W Byers*
Mr and Mrs James A Christian
Mr and Mrs Charles Clogston
Rose Cooper*
James Dalton*
Drs Lee and Mario* DiCesare
LuAn Quang Do
Marian Elmslie*
Iris* and Durwood Everett Charitable Fund
Tom and Pat Fitzpatrick
Gary and Taylor Foss
Kerry and Anna Friedman
John Gatling*
Sara Marie Gibbs
George and Barbara Groome
Mr Lawrence Michael Hines
Dr and Mrs Kenneth E Hornowski
Jerry Hornowski
Bill and Marilyn Hubbard
Mr Matthew David Huber
Virginia Ann Huffer
Carroll and Gwen Hughes
Richard Hurley
Ms Suzy Hust
Ron and Sharon Katz
Jerry and Carrie Keller
Clyde Kelly*
The Kushigian Legacy
Drs Wayne and Phyllis Lang*
Bill and Heather Lee
Dr and Mrs Alexander Maitland, III*
Peter Mallett
W R and Kay McGuire*
FOUNDATIONS
Alice B McLennan Trust
John H Morrison
Linda and Charles Nelms
Mr and Mrs Richard Nelson, Jr
Chat Norvell
Charles O’Connor*
Eleanor and Charlie Owen
Ms Ruth Paddison*
Ken Partin*
Robert C Pew and Susan Taylor
George and Brenda Pfeiffer
Helen A Powers
Preston Price*
Karl* and Shirley Quisenberry
Don and Charlie Reed
Monte Richardson / JonesRichardson Fund
Mr and Mrs Brainard B Rorison*
Ernest Rosenau*
Ms Helen M Russell*
George Saenger
Jack and Yvonne Smith
Lowell Smith
Tom and Bonnie Spradling
Jim and Robin Stickney
David and Nancy Swann
Dolly Swift
Mr and Mrs John D Teeter
Paul and Ellie Toebke*
Dr and Mrs Moultrie H Truluck*
Jim & Pam Turner
Drs Eric and Susan VanTassel
Glenn and Pauline Wilcox
Glenn Wilson
Mr Richard A Wood, Jr *
Clyde and Mildred Wright*
Joe Young, Jr and 3 Anonymous Donors
WOMEN UNITED
DONATING MORE THAN $1,000 ANNUALLY
Dr Jennifer L Abbott
Marla Adams
Elizabeth Allen
Linda Ariail
Barbara M Baskerville
Terri Blankenship
Brianna Bobo
Elisabeth Bocklet and Rita Scott
Erin Bowers
Jenny Boyer
Liz Britton
Ann Von Brock
Tracy Buchanan
Sandra Byrd
Debra D Campbell
Charlotte Caplan
Leslie Carreiro
Sarah Cash
Shelia Christofalos
Lisa Clark
Vicki Collins
Lynn Cook
Carrie Coward
Kit Cramer
Hilary Davenport
Jamye Davis
Madeline Davis
Suzanne DeFerie
Traci DiBlasio
Kris Dionne
Rebecca Doty
Christine Dozier
Diane Demetris-Duermit
Jennie Eblen
Bridget Eckerd
Taylor Foss
Lynne Froeba
Dr Janet Garrett
Heather Goldstein
Jessie Goodwin
Desiree Greene
Susan H Greene
Clementine Gregory
Anna Grimes Hammerbeck
HIGHLAND CIRCLE
Kariem Ali
Jarrett Allton
Nikki Ammons
Brett Amos
Jake Arbusto
Mr Sam S Baker
Daniel Albert Belisle
Michelle Bennett
Joshua Blackwood
Gavin Blevins
Brianna, Bryan, and Owen Bobo
Andrew R Boell
Ms Victoria K Boles
Erin Bowers
Jenny and Travis Boyer
Mr Hayden A Bradley
David Breske
Pat Grimes
Barbara Groome
Lisa Hart
Vicki S Heidinger
Whitney Hewitt
Melissa M Hicks, MD and Ann D
Brown CNM, MSN
Leslie Hill
Elizabeth W Holden
Kelly Hudgins
Tracee Humes
Linda Iovacchini
Malorie Irwin
Laurel Jernigan
Pamela Johnson
Katherine Kaderabek
Patsy R Keever
Frances A Killian
Melody King
Mrs Jane Knight
The Kushigian Legacy
Mrs Suzanne Cobb Landau
DONORS UNDER 40 ALL GIVING LEVELS
Mrs Carrie Parker Brinkley
Liz and Todd Britton
Adam Brunella
Mr Antonio Carson
Sydney Cole
Brittany Damron
Hilary Davenport
Ms Christina A Demorgoli
Mr Jorge J Diaz
Mr Matthew W Donohue
Mr Trevor Dupont
Mr Joe Fowler
Ms Shaina Frady
Jerry Frisbee
Jason Gaddy
Mr Sean P Gaffney
Jakima Gaskins
Holli Gautier
Barbra Love
Dr Sally Ludlum
Clary McCall
Susan H McClinton
Kim McGuire
Majorie McGuirk
Susan Mims
Julie Montanea
Kelli D Owen
Yolanda Parker
Francine Paschall
Avril Pinder
Natalia Rabin
Mary Kate Rikard
Maria Roloff
Sherie Ryan-Bailey
Nancy Schuman
Kristi Shrum
Ann H Skoglund
Ashley Smith
Julie Smith
Rickie Sue Smith
Denise Snodgrass
Ms Sue M Stanek
Robin Stickney
Jana Stonestreet
Kerry Strupp
Ms Jan Gilliam Sturgis
Shirley Tenney
Tara Theodossis
Fran Thigpen
Gillian Tosatto
Ms Teri G Tracy
Kathleen Treiber
Pam Turner
Hope Turpin
Adriane VanDoren
Karen Vernon
Ms Laura Webb
Alexandra Weeks
Hayley Wells
Ann Whaley
Janie Wilson
Heather Wingert
Rachel Wood
Margaret Word-Sims
Nona Workman
Benita Wynn
Michelle Yanik
Ann Young
Nina Young
Andrea Younger and 8 Anonymous Donors
Andy Gmitter
Jessie Goodwin
Mrs Michelle N Grasty
Mr Andrew W Greene
Anna Grimes Hammerbeck
Mr Brandon L Hargis
Terry Harrell
Mr Hunter Harwood
Mr John T Hickman
Ms Barbara Hinton
Mr Matt Hyder
Malorie and Will Irwin
Adam Jones
Josh Keel
Kimberly Kelley
Mr Jared I Kilgore
Morgan F Kohout
Jesus Lara
Mr Avery A Ledford
Mr Jeffrey A Ledford
Courtney Lewis
Michael Lindsey
Ms Caroline E Long
Ryan Love
Mr Gabe Luther
Ms Autum P Martin
Dustin Marusak
Mr Ricky A Mathis
Amber McCleerey
Jackson McCollum
Sam Mello
Mr Geraldy Mompoint
Eric Murdock
Dakota L Murray
Mr Spencer Nay
Ben Nelson
Heath Nettles
Emma Olson
Dakota Owenby
James C Parker
Ms Cecilia J Perez Padilla
Paige Peterson
Alison Pettigrew
Mrs Taylor M Poteat
Mr Elijah R Poulos
Kyle Ramser
Mr Charles V Rattliff
Justine L Redden
Angel Reece
Mr Daniel P Reece Jr
Mr Jonathan Erik Reems
Elizabeth Rice
Lacey Riddle
Olivia W Roach
Amy Roberts
Mr David Roberts
Jared Rogers
Mr Jonathan D Rogers
Ryan Rohwer
Jose Romero
Ms Kelly M Rose
Ms Sarah Roth
Mr Dillon Rubalcava
Mr David Salas
Mr. Zachary J. Sanfilippo
Audrey Schoenbachler
Mr William E Schweig
Mr Justin Scott
James-Wesley Shook
Mrs Misty Dawn Smith
Ann Marie Sparks
Colby Stamey
Mr Stanley Earl Surrett
Mr James Robert Taffer
Ash Devin Timmons
Hunter Toothman
Stephen Vargo
Ms Melissa A Wagner
Joshua Wallin
Mr Ben Walters
Mr Benjamin D West
Molly and John Whatley and 1 Anonymous Donor
Mrs Margaret H Fouse
Mrs Ellenor A Frelick
Lynne and Gary Froeba
Ms Myra T Fuller
Linda Gamble
Dr Robert H Garrison
Jan and Bob Gelder
Dan and Barbara Gerber
Randee Goodstadt
Ms Carol E Greenspan
John and Barbara Gregg
Jim and Sheri Groce
Betty Hafley
Larry and LuAnn Harris
Alice H and William A Hart, Jr
Mr Joseph Harry Hawk Sr
RETIRE UNITED ALL GIVING LEVELS
Rev S F James Abbott
William Abromitis
Bob and Peg Adams
Terry Agner
Marcia Allen
Dick and Judy Allen
Linda and Jerry Ariail
Tommy and Gene Arnold
Joe and Cheryl Aull
Fred and Marcia Ayers
Charles and Stephanie Baer
David D Bailey and Sherie
Ryan-Bailey
Tom Bolton
Ms Ann M Bordeau
Mr Charles G Boyd
Virginia and John Brand
Mrs Lois Breger
Daniel and Linda Brown
David G and Lin Brown
Ms Georgina R Bruce
Ms Betty R Bucher
Mr Tommy Buckner
Nat and Anne Burkhardt
Dr and Mrs Terry Burt
Mr Richard L Bury
Tom and Cathy Byers
Sandra Byrd
Ned and Bunny Cabaniss
Ms Barbara E Campbell
Mr Kevin Campbell
Brett and Angie Cannady
Kay Cannon
Tom and Scottie Cannon
RADM Walter H Cantrell
Charlotte Caplan and Michael Brubaker
Mr Gary S Cash
Dr and Mrs William Chambers
Ruth A Christie
Charles and Patricia Sloan Clogston
Mr Robert S Coates
Mrs Carol Cohen
Mr Cecil Colon
Marilyn and Roger Core
Mr R David Couch
Mr Joseph D Coyle
Dr E Brown Crosby
Jeanne and Charlie Cummings
Mr Joseph F Cummings Jr
Mrs Kathryn P Daughton
Madeline Davis
Capt Allan J Dawson
Ms Janet Dektor
Jerry DeLand
Mr William C Dickason
George and Debbie Duncan
Miles and Millicent Elmore
Donna and Ted Faber
Vic & Sharon Fahrer
Linda Ferguson
Dr and Mrs Marshall Fields
Ms Mary J Finegan
John and Lucy
Mr David M Lockett
Dr Sally Ludlum
Joseph Luna and Paula O’Hara
Rick and Janna Lutovsky
Dr William Madison, Jr
Martin and Kathryn Mann
Ms Sandra Jeanie Marshall
Marcia and Barry Master
Russel N McCrimmon
Julie Montanea
Betty Moore
Ms Jeanne Morelock
George W and Judith C Morosani
Rev Herbert A Moyer
Mr Jan P Heermans
Alice Helms
Rex and Peggy Henderson
Edward Stoll and Nancy Herbert
Ms Iva Joyce Hill
Sara P Hill
Ms A Gail Hipkins
Mr Harold R Hogstrom
Elizabeth W Holden
Mrs Elizabeth W Hubbell
Mr Daniel E Huger
Richard Hurley
Mrs Virginia E Hurley
Janice and Steven Ianniello
Eric and Linda Iovacchini
Dr Jane E Lysko and Dr Edward K Isbey, III
Mr James S Jarratt
Vicki Jenest
Peter and Diane Jones
Ron and Sharon Katz
Robert E and Mercedes Kaufman
Patsy R Keever
Lucy and Gene Keil
Ann Batchelder and Henri Kieffer
Frances A Killian
Ms Mary K Killough
Mrs Jane Knight
Mrs Patricia F Koonts
Rich and Suzy Landau
Ms Diana L Latta
Rev J Michael Leatherwood
Myron and Angela Lepro
Ms Betty J Letzig
Virginia K Linville
Rickie Sue Smith
Phil and Pat Smith
Ms Susan M Snell
Ms Linda B Sperath
Mrs Nancy C Stancil
Michael Stevenson
David Stewart
Courtenay and Thomas Stierwalt
Mr Sanford Stoddard
Susanne Swanger
Mr Arthur W Swarthout
John and Kathy Tempelaar-Lietz
Shirley Tenney
Ms Naomi A Turk
Mr Donald W Turman
Sue and Charlie Mueller
Steve and Kay Nesbitt
Mr Leon S Newman Jr
Kathy K Noyes
Keith and Patty Olbrantz
Mrs Esther Pardue
Joy Pastucha
Bob and Becky Pitts
Rev Donald R Poole Jr
Linda F Poss
Ben and Jeanne Powell
Bitsy and Jim Powell
Mr Donald G Price
Mr Tom C Redinger
Mr Don M Roberts
Mr D C Robinson
Sandy Rountree
Drs John and Constance Russell
Mr Frank H Rutland
Bruce and Teresa Jo Sampson
Mrs Barbara M Sanders
Mary Margaret and Wade Saunders
Dianne and Charles Sawyer
Ms Lizabeth A Schoenheit
Mrs Judy L Schroeder
Nancy Schuman
Mr Gary Schwartz
Dr and Mrs Robert Scully
Michael and Ilona Sena
Bob and Brenda Shepherd
Steve and Carole Shoaf
Ed Shoff
Mrs Ann M Simpson
Mr Ronald A Sistrunk
Mr and Mrs Canie B Smith
Frank S Smith
James Tyson
Drs Eric and Susan Van Tassel
Dr and Mrs Randall Vanderbeek
Ann Von Brock and Sherman Fearing
Mr Joseph W Walker
Pete and Pat Wallenborn
Clyde Waters
Bob Wernet Jr
Ann Whaley
Glenn and Pauline* Wilcox
Cheryl and Richard Williams
Larry and Janie Wilson
William M Winkler
Susan and Thomas Withrow
Ms Barbara Witt
Mary Bruce and Stephen W
Woody
Charles and Nancy Worley
Mrs Sheryl H Wothke
Terry and Pat Wright
Michelle and Joe Yanik
Ms Sandra T Yost and 8 Anonymous Donors
More than 9,000 donations (and counting) have been sent to us from across the country for Helene recovery efforts
Caring for the donations entrusted to us for Helene Relief has been one of the greatest honors for our team. Support poured in from individuals and foundations across the globe—from California to Maine, Canada to Australia and many place inbetween .
Businesses and artists stepped up with t-shirt sales, book tours, concerts, and more And so many cards and letters of encouragement came in the mail IT WAS INCREDIBLE.
We also received essential support through United Way Worldwide and United Way of North Carolina’s Disaster Relief efforts.
Each gift, big or small, reflects a powerful truth: when disaster strikes, our shared humanity calls us to show up for one another
LEARN MORE ABOUT HELENE RESPONSE EFFORTS unitedwayabc org/helene
HELENE RELIEF & RECOVERY
Barbara Aaronoff
Kara Abrams
Ms Sandra Alguire
Andrenne Alsum
Bruce Ammerman
Stephen Andrade
Nick Ave
Charles and Stephanie Baer
Richard Bair
Rod and Bess Baird
Toni Barney
Ms Sylvia M Bassett
Jennifer M Beck
Stuart Bell
Nancy Benedict
William Berg
Carol Black
Dr and Mrs Stephen Blievernicht
Mr Lawrence P Borrelli
David & Laura Bourne
Margaret Bourne
Daniel Bradshaw
Mr William Brightman
Norman Britt
Eloise Brooks
Dr Stephen D Brown
Geoffrey Brown
Keith Brown
Elaine Brummett
Kelly Buchholz
Jamie Cain
Aj Calvillo
Mr Kevin Campbell
Ms Barbara Brownsmith
Campbell
Sharon C Carter
Rodrick Chima
Robert Chin
Amanda Choie
Donald Christensen
John Christiansen
Shelia and Nick Christofalos
Sue W Cloak
Teresa Coffey
David Cook
Ben Cornelis
Eric Cote
Nancy and Paul Craig
Victoria Crawford
Jeffrey and Susan Curtis
Pete Davis
Capt and Mrs Allan J Dawson
Kathleen Dennison
Judith Deutsch
Michele Dohse
Jeanne Eichinger
Amira El-Dinary
Victoria Elder
Ms Susan J Enderle
Michael Engel
Mr Christopher W Farley
Ben Fedder
Ms Susan Frazier
Nancy Gamble
Hank and Sarah Garbee
Kelly Garcia
Dan and Barbara Gerber
Ms Melissa Gerhardt
Ron and Pat* Godbold
Janet Gonzalez
Miller Graves
Steve Gregory
Ms. Karen J. Griffin
Mrs Sarah C Gross
Mr Quan H Ha
Lawrence Haas
Philip E Hardee
William Hart
Heather Hatmaker
Darren Henegar
Randy Hensley
Daniel T Heth
Melissa M Hicks, MD and Ann D Brown, CNM, MSN
Patricia A Hillmann
Ms Catherine L Hoglen
Deborah Holden
Nancy Horowitz
Dr Jane E Lysko and Dr Edward
K Isbey, III
Daniel Ives
Josef Jaeger
Richard S Jaffe
Ellen Johnson
Tammy Johnson
Melissa Justen
BUNCOMBE COUNTY DONORS
THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2024
Ron and Sharon Katz
Kevin Keating
Kenneth Keeler
Lisa Keeter
Patsy R Keever
Liz and John Kimberly
Celeste King
Linda S Kinsinger & Russ Harris
Marcus Kirkman
Helen Knouf
Arthur Kohn
Anna Kostiukova
Jennifer Kowalewski
Michelle Kraak
Nicholas Ladd
Michelle Lamb
Ms Carol Landers
Donna Larrabee
Steven Laubenthal
Mrs Jill Lawrence
Mary Lawton
Timothy Lcard
Khoi M Le & Deborah D Le
Rafael Leal
Thomas Ledoux
David Lewis
Mrs Patti Young Lloyd
Christopher Lockhart
Clifford Love
Joel Luczak
Chris Lundeberg
Ms Sheryl E Lussier
Mrs Myra Lynch Rogers
Lane Mallonee
Jan Maloney
Lois Markham
Marty Martin
Michael Mazur
Clary McCall
Shelley and Mark McNeill
Andrew Mecham
Joseph Melton
Ms Diane Millikan
Mary Moffitt
Elizabeth Mozer
Anna C Nagy
Marianne L Newman
Dr David Nguyen
Cathy Nichols
Leah Noel
Rich Olejniczak
Emma Olson
Karen Osborne-Rowland
Jennifer Ostendorf
Ms Karen Ostergaard
Betsy Wilson and Kern Parker
Anjali Patel
Kyle Pecsok
William Pomeroy
Ralph Protsik
Richard Quinn
Cal and Kit Rains
Ms Heidi Reiber
William Reidar
Mrs Jackie E Rice
Therman L Richie II
Harriet Rotter
David Russell
Jeffrey Russell
Heinz Sauer
Dianne and Charles Sawyer
Patricia Schmid
Alexander Schwartz
Kurt Schwarz
Richard Shannon
James A Shuler
Barbara Siegrist
Dr Mel Skiles
Frances Slane
Kerry Sledge
Ms Danielle M Smith
Mr Roy W Smucker Jr
Caitlin Soper
Jeff Spiegel
Jeffrey Staudinger
Ned Steadman
Susan Steele
Ms Karen Sumner
Sheila Sutherland
Susanne Swanger
Mayo Taylor
John and Kathy Tempelaar-Lietz
Shirley Tenney
Russ Thacher
Ms Rhoda Todd
Adam Torrey
Joel Towbin
Angela Townshend
Ms Stefani Twyman
James Tyson
Mr Robert Underwood
Ms Melissa M Vansickle
Ann Von Brock & Sherman Fearing
Lisa Wagner
Richard Wallace
Sally Wallace Arielle Walsh
Natahlie Wang
Ms Gail L Ward
Maude Warden
John Warren
Mr Gene Waters
Paulette Webb
Ms Alice Weldon
Mr George West
Tressa Whitson
Deborah Wilbrink
Priscilla Wilcox
Mr Mark R Williamson
Patricia Wilson
Blake Witty
Mr James Woerner
David and Dianne Worley
Mrs Sheryl H Wothke
Ms Vickie Wyatt and 2 Anonymous Donors
OUR SPONSORS
Our sponsors not only show up to underwrite special events, they support us through annual sponsorships as well.
Their support allows us to do more for sure, but these organizations are also some of our biggest champions, providing opportunities for their teams to give back through volunteerism and annual fundraising campaigns.
Learn more about opportunities for your business to sponsor our work.
See all our sponsors and learn more about their efforts.
LIVING CAROLINAS
Capstone Health Alliance, and our subsidiaries, are proud to support the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe Co. and their work with Community Schools to elevate student success, support families, and engage all communities.
mtngraphicsavl.com showtimesportsavl.com capstonehealthalliance.com
UNITED IS THE WAY
Like tiny seeds with potent power to push through tough ground and become mighty trees, we hold innate reserves of unimaginable strength. We are resilient.
Catherine DeVrye, The Gift of Nature
We have a long road ahead of us to heal ourselves and our communities, but we know that together we can do anything .
Thank you again for your belief in our work Thank you for your commitment to our community
Let's see what we're capable of accomplishing, together -- all of us at United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County
