“Graham gave his blessing to every conflict under every president from Truman to the second Bush, and most of the presidents, pleased to enjoy public assurance of God’s approval, made him welcome in the White House.”
The surprising health benefits of WNC’s fermented foods
“Here’s to celebrating this important and diverse technique of food production in hopes that its products continue to proliferate locally for the health and well-being of everyone.”
Physicians must recognize that they need care, too
“We must first transform our culture to embrace the human side of medical providers, with all their vulnerabilities, and remember that physicians’ lives hold value and meaning separate from the role they play as care providers.”
A mentoring choice that made all the difference
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC’s motto is ‘Start Something Big’ because of the astronomical potential that can be unlocked in young people when they have a mentor who believes in them.”
Canines may be losing ground in Dog City
“I backed myself up and saw it, a sign on the door reading: ‘Therapy Dogs, Emotional Support Dogs and Pets, not allowed inside per Federal/NC State Law. Thank you for your cooperation.’ Uh-oh.”
Give the gift that can change a life: volunteer
“Research confirms the long-term positive effects that mentoring can have on vulnerable children and recognizes that parents and teachers cannot provide all the help most at-risk children need to reach their full potential.”
Helping people with intellectual disabilities take part in the community
“The Adult Day Activities Program is very excited for all of these opportunities that they have had to meet new folks and to become a part of the community in which they live.”
Ramp allows bingo lover to live at home
“A beautifully built ramp, 80 feet in total, will effectively keep these two ladies living at home for years to come.”
Learning from the rich history of YWCA Asheville
“By learning from our rich history and honoring the women who fought for gender, racial and social justice here in Asheville, we are challenged to live up to that legacy every day.”
A victory for health care via housing
“In the world of HIV treatment, we have a saying: ‘Housing is health care.’ What it means is that it is very difficult to link people living with HIV/AIDS to health care if they do not have stable housing.”
Helping a father prepare for his daughter’s future care
“For more than a decade, Mission Health and Pisgah Legal Services have worked together through the HEALS Project, a special medical-legal partnership that addresses critical legal issues that impact the health of low-income patients.”
Supporting community through Southside Arts & Agricultural Center
“The purpose of the Southside Arts & Agricultural Center project is to support healing, restoring and reclaiming community culture; support emerging leaders; grow food; and incubate economic development.”
Moving from homelessness to stability and a better life
“Our brightest moment is when we move someone out of homelessness and their life changes for the better. Michelle is a great example of this.”
Inspired to take a chance on Oreo
“Hope, not heartache, inspired Brandy to take a chance on Oreo, and hope is what motivates us to keep fighting for our most vulnerable pets.”
Teaching parents about caring for kids with mental health issues
“People with mental health issues can lead full, meaningful lives. Treatment works. Recovery happens. The purpose of NAMI WC is support, education and advocacy.”
Thank God it’s over!: The Gospel According to Jerry
“Heroic young men and women who’d stepped up to defeat our dreadful enemies returned to us, many arriving at the same train station on Depot Street from which they’d departed.”
Why the voter apathy, Asheville?
“I don’t understand why people won’t vote in larger numbers for the local Council elections. That’s the structure between you and the chaos of national politics.”
Home, sweet home: A senior moves to West Asheville
“I’ve been to restaurants and even a couple of music venues in West Asheville, but what’s it like to live here?”
A modest proposal for the Vance Monument
“First off, let’s agree that anybody with an ounce of decency must feel a bit embarrassed that Asheville has given its top award for excellence to a man like Zebulon Baird Vance.”
CoThinkk celebrates leaders of color and allies
On Oct. 21, the fourth annual African Americans in WNC conference wrapped up with a gala celebration of CoThinkk, a giving circle led by people of color to support work in Asheville and Western North Carolina.
Place, race and poverty: Solutions start with valuing cultural realities
“Naming the history of a problem in our black community does not discount the experiences of our rural white communities. It’s not an either-or argument. It’s an “and” discussion. And white, rural communities suffer from food insecurity, too.”