Give!Local (2020)

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NOV.- DEC. CAMPAIGN 1

MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2018

EVERY PENNY COUNTS! Credit card service fees are proudly paid for by



ITTLE LANET! L T S E L THE COO JOINT ON THE P PIZZA

100% of your donations go to the nonprofits No transaction fees, no extra charges

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

THANK YOU! would not be what it is without the support of our sponsors.

Likewise, to all Give!Local’s business partners who generously are providing their products, services and discounts: We could not do it without you.

FIRST BANK | WICKED WEED | PRESTIGE SUBARU

They believe in the project and the area’s great nonprofits.

We send a special thanks to them.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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2020 ONLINE GIVING CAMPAIGN: NOV. 1 – DEC. 31

The mission Raise funds and awareness for 44 worthy local nonprofits that are making a big difference where we live — while making philanthropy simple, fun and rewarding, no matter how small or large the gift.

The method 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.

Reward donors with lots of goodies provided by a wide range of local businesses.

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

PUBLISHER Jeff Fobes GIVE!LOCAL COORDINATOR Able Allen LEAD DESIGNER Olivia Urban DESIGN Scott Southwick COVER DESIGN Olivia Urban ADMINISTRATION Able Allen • Olivia Urban

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EDITOR Tracy Rose

how to participate

INCENTIVES

Susan Hutchinson • Sara Brecht Tiffany Wagner • David Furr

rewards for giving

WEB Bowman Kelley DISTRIBUTION Cindy Kunst and the MX team of drivers

giving games

The Give!Local Guide is published by Mountain Xpress

special offers

P.O. Box 144 Asheville, NC 28802 828.251.1333 Copyright 2020

ABOUT THE COVER This moment was captured as Muddy Sneakers students were learning how to use a magnifying glass to look at fallen leaves on the first day of School in the Woods Expedition.

Photo by Capturing WNC Photography

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community health & wellness education animals environment social justice

optional mail-in donation form

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2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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Welcome to WNC’s 2020 ONLINE GIVING CAMPAIGN

How to participate

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Learn about this year’s 44 participating nonprofits, which are all 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.

Go to givelocalguide.org and get started, or fill out page 47 and mail it in.

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Check out and pay with a credit card.

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You’re done!

Every penny of your donation goes to the nonprofits you designate — a big thank you to Blue Mountain Pizza for covering the credit card fees!

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Decide which nonprofits you want to give to

and how much, from $5 up to as much as you like. As you make your selections, Give!Local’s shopping cart will total what you’ve decided to give to each nonprofit. Before you check out, you will have an opportunity to go back and adjust your amounts if you wish.

If you donate $25 or more, Give!Local will mail you a voucher book about 10 days afterward containing coupons for goods and services at area businesses. If you give $400 or more, an additional incentive packet will be mailed to you in the new year. And if you give $1,000 or more, we will hand-deliver a box of goodies to your home or business in the new year.

MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

GIVE!LOCAL Guide!

NOVEMBER 1 – DECEMBER 31

Give!Local Rules • The minimum combined donation to receive an incentive is $25 — unless you are age 12 or under, in which case it is $5.

• Donations of $25 or more qualify you for drawings. Winners will be chosen by random drawings.

• 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.

• Incentives are limited in quantity. We will try our darnedest to make sure everyone gets an incentive, but incentives will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and no incentives are guaranteed.

• Only one incentive package per email address, and two incentive packages per household may be provided.

• Children can participate, too! The minimum to earn a Kids Incentive is just $5. Children must have parental approval. Multiple children from one home may give separately, but the incentives will come in one envelope addressed to the parent or guardian (up to four Kids Incentive books per household).

• 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. Note that we need your address in order to deliver your incentives.

• Give!Local is a web-based giving project, but if you prefer to fill out a paper form and write a check instead, there is a paper form at the back of this print guide.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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2020 2021 2020 20 21

Rewards for

GIVING

Book Voucher Voucher Book

GIVE $25-$399

... and get a voucher book filled with great freebies and discounts from your favorite retailers around the area — including Oklawaha Brewing Co., Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria, Franny’s Farmacy, Copper Crown, Mast General Store and more — to thank you for your contribution. Your voucher book will be mailed to you the week after you donate!

GIVE $400-$1,499

... and get the voucher book right away, plus more great things in the new year that fit in an envelope, such as gift certificates for goods, services, experiences and dining.

GIVE $1,500 OR MORE

... and get the voucher book right away, plus have a basket of goodies hand-delivered to your door, filled with unique products and gift certificates for goods and services from talented local entrepreneurs.

Each year, Mountain Xpress and our nonprofit partners call on the local business community to join in the Give!Local campaign, provide exciting incentives to reward donors of all amounts and make you feel appreciated. These businesses have provided free meals, cups of coffee, adventures off the beaten path and much more. This year is no exception, but things are a lot harder for businesses right now, especially in the retail and service industries. The Give!Local partners know incentives aren’t the reason you give, but we all think you should get a little something to thank you for your generosity. If you are a longtime donor through Give!Local, we hope you’ll understand that some of the rewards you see for donating may be a little smaller, and it may take a little longer to receive them.

Thank you for your patience and understanding in this leaner and unpredictable time.

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

The

Giving

?

Games

Every week, in November and December, we’ll pick a winner for a gift card valued at $20 or more from a local business.

Give any amount, any time, and you’ll be entered in all remaining drawings.

Donors who give $25 or more by Nov. 30 will be entered to win a splurge at Mast General Store. The prize will be awarded as a $100 gift card (plus a bonus mug full of candy).

Donors who give $25 or more by midnight on Dec. 31 will be entered to win a two-night stay for two in an Eco-Cabin on Franny’s Farm.

Donors giving $100 or more during the Give!Local campaign will be entered in a drawing for a complimentary foursome at Reem’s Creek Golf Club in Weaverville, courtesy of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge.

Three nonprofits with the most Give!Local donors will each win a $1,000 Mountain Xpress advertising campaign — one prize for each of three sizes of nonprofits (small, medium and large revenue categories).

To enter the Giving Games, donate at the required level, through Give!Local, before the date of the drawing for each prize, and you will automatically be entered in all subsequent drawings.

That means early donations have the most chances of winning!

No purchase necessary; see terms at givelocalguide.org for details.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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SPECIAL OFFERS In the spirit of Give!Local’s mission to make philanthropy fun and rewarding, participating nonprofits have called on their reliable partners and their own resources to offer additional goodies and donation boosters to excite 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; and Drawings are opportunities to win exciting prizes.

Matches Animals Section Match: The Community Foundation of WNC will match all donations of $25 or more, up to $100 per donor, to any of the Give!Local Animal nonprofits, up to a maximum of $7,000 in matches (see page 31 for details).

All Souls Counseling Center: An anonymous dedicated donor will match the first $800 in donations.

Asheville City Schools Foundation: A generous, anonymous donor will match all gifts to ACSF, up to a total matching contribution of $5,000.

BeLoved Asheville: The first $2,000 in donations will be matched by Asheville Home Realty.

Blue Ridge Pride: An anonymous donor will match the first $500 donated by the public.

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue: All donations will be matched dollar for dollar by a generous donor up to $2,500.

Buncombe Partnership for Children: The first $4,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar by Jennie Eblen and anonymous donors.

Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County: Publix Super Markets Charities will match up to $3,000 in donations.

Friends of the WNC Nature Center: Gifts of $100 or more will be matched up to $3,500, thanks to Weiler Woods for Wildlife.

Girls on the Run: The first $1,500 donated will be matched by an anonymous donor.

Homeward Bound of WNC: Creating Hope and Homes matching gift challenge will match all donations up to $100,000 dollar for dollar, thanks to two generous families.

The Mediation Center: Anonymous donors will match all donations up to $10,000.

OpenDoors of Asheville: The first $3,000 in donations will be matched by a collective of two generous donors.

Pisgah Legal Services: All gifts made to support Pisgah Legal’s COVID-19 response work are being matched dollar for dollar, through the end of 2020, up to $200,000 by generous donors.

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy: A generous, anonymous donor will match all donations up to $5,000.

Verner Center for Early Learning: An anonymous donor will match donations dollar for dollar, up to $5,000.

WNC Birth Center: A friend of the birth center will match the first $1,000 in gifts.

Working Wheels: All gifts up to $25,000 will be matched by a generous donor.

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Incentives Each donor who gives $50 or more to Appalachian Wildlife Refuge will receive a “Back to the Wild” package, which includes a plush animal of a native species (squirrel, rabbit, beaver, frog, etc.) and a certificate highlighting the species and thanking them for their support.

Donors giving $50 or more to Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity will receive a handmade pottery magnet – colors vary – made by our own Ariane Kjellquist.

The first 20 donors contributing $100 or more to Asheville City Schools Foundation will receive two complimentary High Five espresso drinks.

Asheville Humane Society will offer a $25 adoption-fee credit for every donation of $25 or more.

BeLoved Asheville • Donors of $250 or more will be the named sponsor of an upcoming cultural event.

• Donors of $500 will adopt a Street Pantry to be filled through the winter months for friends on the streets.

• Donors of $750 will be named sponsors of a neighborhood community distribution hub for COVID-19 relief.

• Donors of $3,000 or more get a named sponsorship of a kitchen in BeLoved Village.

Blue Ridge Pride • Donors of $20 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride sticker (first 25).

• Donors of $40 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride button (first 25).

• Donors of $60 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride button and magnet (first 25).

• Donors of $100 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride tote bag with sticker, button and magnet.

Buncombe Partnership for Children • The first 40 gifts of $40-$74 will receive a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn.

• The first five gifts of $75-$149 will receive a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn.

• The first two gifts of $150-$299 will receive a pair of tickets for the Haunted Asheville Ghost Tours classic walking tour, a new book from Malaprop’s, a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn.

• The first three gifts of $300 or more will receive a pair of tickets for the Navitat Canopy Adventures Mountaintop Tour, a new book from Malaprop’s, a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn.

EcoForesters • The first 10 donors of $25 or more will get a $5 gift card to Hole Doughnuts.

• Donors of $50 or more will get an EcoForesters T-shirt.

• Donors of $75 or more will get an EcoForesters T-shirt and a pint glass.

Friends of the Smokies • Donors who contribute $35 or more will receive a Friends of the Smokies membership, which includes discounts at Great Smoky Mountains National Park bookstores, and a sticker.

• Donors who contribute $50 or more will receive all of the above, plus a certified Great Smoky Mountains National Park trail map.

• Donors who contribute $100 or more will receive all of the above, plus a Friends of the Smokies mask.

• Donors who contribute $200 or more will receive all of the above, plus a complimentary registration for one 2021 Classic Hikes of the Smokies.

Friends of the WNC Nature Center • Donors of $20 or more will receive a free day pass to the WNC Nature Center.

• Donors of $50 or more will receive a Nature Center animal magnet and a day pass.

• Donors of $100 or more will receive a T-shirt featuring Karma, the Nature Center’s endangered red wolf, an animal magnet and a day pass.

• Donors of $250 or more will receive a guided tour of the Nature Center for four people, a red wolf T-shirt and animal magnet.

Donors of $10 or more to Friends2Ferals will receive a $5 merchandise coupon for Patton Avenue Pet Co. 2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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Incentives, continued Full Moon Farm • Donors of $25 or more will receive a Full Moon Farm patch.

• Donors of $50 or more will additionally be invited to schedule a tour of Full Moon Farm for up to four people.

The first 10 donors of $50 or more to Girls on the Run will get one (single person) free registration for the next GOTR 5K, in 2021.

Green Built Alliance • For every $20 donated, 1 ton of carbon emissions will be offset through the nonprofit’s Appalachian Offsets program that performs energy-efficiency upgrades in local schools, nonprofits and affordable housing.

• Donors contributing $50-$100 will receive a Green Built Alliance T-shirt.

• Donors contributing $100 or more will receive a Green Built Alliance sweatshirt.

Donors of $25 or more to Helpmate will receive a coupon for one pour of Highland beer at the brewery taproom.

Literacy Council of Buncombe County • Donors who give $50-$99 will receive a $5 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore and Café.

• Donors who give $100 and up will receive a $15 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore and Café.

The first 10 donors who contribute to The Mediation Center will receive a free taco from Zia Taqueria.

MountainTrue • Donors giving $50 or more will receive a Mast General Store 15% off coupon (single, regularly priced item).

• Donors giving $250 or more will receive a MountainTrue hat and the Mast General Store coupon.

• Donors giving $500 or more will receive a MountainTrue backpack, a MountainTrue hat and the Mast General Store coupon.

My Daddy Taught Me That • Donors who give $50-$199 will receive a copy of My Daddy Taught Me That, the book by Keynon Lake.

• Donors who give $200-$499 will receive the official MDTMT letterman jacket.

• Donors who give $500-$999 will get the MDTMT two-piece sweatsuit.

• Donors who give $1,000 or more will enjoy a special day with MDTMT youths and staff.

Every person donating to OpenDoors of Asheville will receive 20% off a haircut at The Local Barber & Tap. Open Hearts Art Center • Anyone who donates $25 or more will receive a specialty embroidered logo magnet.

• Anyone who donates $50 or more will receive an original piece of Open Hearts artwork.

Our VOICE • Donors giving $10 or more will receive a complimentary coffee from Izzy’s Downtown Coffee Den or Izzy’s West Coffee House.

• Donors giving $20 or more will receive a specialty coffee drink from Izzy’s and a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop. • Donors giving $50 or more will receive a 12-ounce bag of coffee from Izzy’s and a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop. • Donors giving $100 or more will receive a 12-ounce bag of coffee from Izzy’s, a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop and a special edition Our VOICE face mask that reads “BREAK THE SILENCE.” The first 10 donors who donate $25 or more to Pisgah Legal Services will receive a $10 gift card to City Bakery.

Every person donating $100 or more to Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy will receive a $10 gift card from Wicked Weed.

Donors of over $100 to Working Wheels receive a Working Wheels hat.

Drawings Every donor giving $25 or more to Appalachian Wildlife Refuge will be entered into a drawing for a private birding day trip with Ventures Birding Tours.

Donors of $100 or more to BeLoved Asheville are entered into a raffle for a BeLoved prize package.

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Blue Ridge Pride • All donors will be entered into a raffle for a dog or cat gift basket donated by Wag! A Unique Pet Boutique.

• All donors of $100 or more more will additionally be entered into a giveaway drawing for a set of white sapphire stud earrings (a total of 2 carats), in a martini setting in 925 silver, donated by Grace Dula of Helzberg Diamonds.

• All donors of $250 or more will be entered into a giveaway for a set of blue sapphire earrings, with a white sapphire halo (a total of 4.25 carats), set in 925 silver, donated by Grace Dula of Helzberg Diamonds.

Donors of $150 or more to Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County will be entered in two drawings: One for two tickets to Navitat Canopy Adventures’ Mountaintop Tour (expires 11/30/2021). And one for a gift basket of local business goodies, including two six-packs from Devil’s Foot Beverage Co., 2 ounces of loose-leaf tea from Asheville Tea Co., a swag bag from Hillman Beer (sign, tank top, two koozies, sunglasses and a sticker) and a liter of Highland’s Cold Mountain (2020). (Winner must be 21 or older.)

Donors of $250 or more to Friends of the WNC Nature Center will be entered to win a chance to go on habitat with red pandas Leafa and Phoenix in 2021.

All donors of $300 or more to Homeward Bound of WNC will be entered into a drawing to win a basket full of Homeward Bound goodies.

All donors to Manna FoodBank will be entered into a raffle for a beautiful, gallery-quality piece of pottery donated by one of our fabulous, local Empty Bowls artisans.

Each donor who contributes $20 or more to The Mediation Center will be entered into a drawing to win three bottles of Biltmore wine. (Winner must be 21 or older.)

Donors giving $100 or more to MountainTrue will be entered to win one pair of Biltmore Estate passes.

Check GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG for more offers and updates!

Grow Your Gift The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina

will match your contribution to any of the 2020 Give!Local animal welfare organizations.* *Your contribution must be $25 or more. *CFWNC will match your gift, dollar for dollar, up to $100. *One matching gift per donor per organization.

CFWNC’s total contribution is limited to $7,000.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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COMMUNIT Y

COMMUNITY

ABCCM ABCCM is a leading nonprofit addressing poverty, hunger, homelessness and access to health care. A family of 310 congregations and 6,068 volunteers provide basic necessities like food, clothing and limited financial assistance at four Crisis Ministry sites; the Jail Ministry, with (virtual) Bible studies and coordination of religious activities at BCDC; and the Medical Ministry, providing essential medical care with pharmacy services at no cost for the uninsured.

The ministry work also focuses on helping veterans through housing and education at Veterans Restoration Quarters; and Veterans Services of the Carolinas, with training and job placement, rapid rehousing services and service coordination for veterans across 56 counties in N.C. Steadfast House provides temporary housing and training for new life skills for women and children, including veterans, all leading to a living wage and permanent housing.

“Both Andrew and Charlie [my sons] have thoroughly come to love volunteering and look forward to going to ABCCM South every week. We all feel that ABCCM South has become a part of our family.”

— Dr. Lisa Ladd, longtime volunteer abccm.org • (828) 259-5300 • info@abccm.org

103.3 Asheville FM We keep Asheville thriving by producing diverse and eclectic programming that inspires our listeners to build connections across our communities and to discover new music and ideas.

“It’s so refreshing to have Asheville FM, where people are volunteers. They come in here, just loving what they do and spreading it throughout the community and being a part of it. It makes us feel like we are a part of the community again. After 20 years of living here, I wondered what was going to happen to the city. And it’s still good to see that people are caring about it and getting back to the roots of what it used to be and what it can be because it’s always going to change.”

— Nicholas Hunter, Asheville ashevillefm.org • (828) 348-0352

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Blue Ridge Pride We seek to promote equality, safety and quality of life for Western North Carolina’s LGBTQ and allied communities. Our annual festival welcomes over 15,000 people and 200 exhibitors for a day of education, advocacy, fundraising, service and celebration. The rest of the year, we seek to serve the community through a variety of programs, events and projects.These include our Community Partner Fund, Oral History Project, Generation Plus Program and Virtual LGBTQ Center.

“Blue Ridge Pride brings our community together in a way where everyone feels welcome. These events mean a lot to us and to our church. Fifty members participated last year, describing the experience as inspiring and life-changing. We can’t wait to participate again.”

— Asheville residents, Joel Cohen and Barry Dingman Blueridgepride.org • (828) 476-8577

SPECIAL OFFERS 100% of your

Blue Ridge Pride An anonymous donor will match the first $500 donated by the public. • Donors of $20 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride sticker (first 25). • Donors of $40 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride button (first 25). • Donors of $60 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride button and magnet (first 25). • Donors of $100 or more will receive a Blue Ridge Pride tote bag with sticker, button and magnet. • All donors will be entered into a raffle for a dog or cat gift basket donated by Wag! A Unique Pet Boutique. • All donors of $100 or more more will additionally be entered into a giveaway drawing for a set of white sapphire stud earrings (a total of 2 carats), in a martini setting in 925 silver, donated by Grace Dula of Helzberg Diamonds. • All donors of $250 or more will be entered into a giveaway for a set of blue sapphire earrings, with a white sapphire halo (a total of 4.25 carats), set in 925 silver, donated

by Grace Dula of Helzberg Diamonds.

The

Giving

$100 Splurge at Mast General Store

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Games

Donors who give $25 or more by Nov. 30 will be entered to win a splurge at Mast General Store. The prize will be awarded as a $100 gift card (plus a bonus mug full of candy).

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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COMMUNIT Y

The Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. Our mission is to promote the dignity, independence and well-being of adults through service, education and advocacy for seniors age 60 and older. Each year, our staff, with the assistance of our donors, help the homebound elderly, who may be food insecure. We distribute food bags to our clients; find help for heating their homes; enroll them in Medicare; assist caregivers; install grab bars and provide many other services that improve the quality of life for seniors in Buncombe County.

“This service means a lot to me. It is very nice for you to do this for seniors and others. I am really grateful for the food. I really thank you, for it came in handy. Thank you! Thank you! May the good Lord bless you.

Your kindness will never be forgotten.”

— Leonia Pugh coabc.org • (828) 277-8288

The Mediation Center Since 1984, the Mediation Center has helped community members find common ground and a way through difficult and stressful conflict. Participants — ­ families, youths, neighbors and organizations, as well as people impacted by incarceration — work through conflict and reach agreements on their own terms. The Mediation Center also provides supervised child visitation to ensure children can stay connected to both of their parents.

By helping community members resolve conflict, the Mediation Center creates a safer and more peaceful community for everyone.

“Mediation really helped us focus our conversation on solutions rather than just rehashing past grievances. By having the mediators, everyone remained committed to not simply walking away when angry. We actually got somewhere — I was surprised how well the process worked.”

— Community mediation participant mediatewnc.org • (828) 251-6989

Open Hearts Art Center Open Hearts Art Center is a supportive studio and gallery dedicated to representing and empowering adults with varied abilities to connect to and reach their full potential through the arts. We are a community-based day program that offers experiences in visual and performing arts while focusing on supporting the individual needs of the artists who attend with the goal each day of emphasizing each person’s many and vast abilities.

“When the opportunity arose for my brother to start attending Open Hearts, it was like watching a flower bloom. Art, music, dancing, costumes, talent shows and LOVE! He found his outlet amongst these people who welcomed him with open arms and open hearts.”

— Tiffany Anderson openheartsartcenter.org • (828) 505-8428

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Working Wheels Donate your car and significantly change the life of a local family. A functioning car opens the door to further education, better employment opportunities and an improved quality of life. It’s not just a tax deduction — it’s a step toward independence for a person in our community. We accept vehicles of any age, type and quality level. All are useful and contribute to the success of the mission. Monetary donations support our parts and repair fund.

“When we bought a new family car, we had a decision to make: We could trade in our used car for a marginal, short-term gain for our family alone, or we could donate the used car to Working Wheels for a significant, longterm gain for a participating family. We learned what a difference owning a car could make in the lives of participants, increasing their career opportunities and earning potential while reducing their commute times to allow for more quality time with their families. The choice was clear!”

— Janice and Russell, vehicle donors workingwheelswnc.org • (828) 633-6888

SPECIAL OFFERS The Mediation Center Anonymous donors will match all donations up to $10,000. • The first 10 donors who contribute will receive a free taco from Zia Taqueria. • Each donor who contributes $20 or more will be entered into a drawing to win three bottles of Biltmore wine. (Winner must be 21 or older.)

Give now at

givelocalguide.org

Open Hearts Art Center Anyone who donates $25 or more will receive a specialty embroidered logo magnet. • Anyone who donates $50 or more will receive an original piece of Open Hearts artwork.

= MATCHING OFFER

Working Wheels All gifts up to $25,000 will be matched by a generous donor. • Donors of over $50 receive a Working Wheels hat.

Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Let’s stay connected.

Sign up for the Xpress daily newsletter

mountainx.com/ newsletters

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OUR MISSION 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.

Serving WNC since 1994 18

MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

THE COOLEST LITTLE PIZZA JOINT ON THE PLANET!

We've given

OVER $265,000

to nonprofits in the last 10 years.

•

10% of revenue donated to the nonprofit of the month on the third Thursday of every month.

•

15 Years of Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving night to anyone who comes into the restaurant. This year will be carryout only.

Hall of Fame Best of WNC winner for

The Business that Represents the Spirit of Weaverville

check our website for menu updates, operating hours & other important info:



bluemountainpizza.com 

55 N Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787 • 828-658-8778 2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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HE ALTH AND WELLNESS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

All Souls Counseling Center Our mission at All Souls Counseling Center is to provide affordable, quality mental health counseling to the uninsured and underinsured residents of Western North Carolina with a sliding-fee scale. All Souls Counseling Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our program provides individual, couples and family therapy for adults. Currently, we are providing services via phone and telehealth for clients’ and therapists’ safety.

“All the people I have interacted with have been the utmost of professional and demonstrate genuine caring for my well-being. I am beyond grateful for their services and would highly recommend them to anyone needing support.”

— ASCC client AllSoulsCounseling.org • (828) 259-3369

Bounty & Soul Bounty & Soul connects people to food, education and each other. We offer weekly, free fresh-produce markets paired with interactive health and wellness classes for adults and children, including live cooking demonstrations, yoga, Zumba and more! We are dedicated to creating a more just, equitable and thriving food and health care system and community.

“It’s the approach we need to be taking at a local, regional and national level to address the underlying challenging but critical lifestyle changes that lie beneath chronic disease and poor health. It has the potential to be a game-changer.”

— Ben Aiken, M.D., Lantern Health bountyandsoul.org • (828) 419-0533

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Girls on the Run At Girls on the Run of WNC, we have served over 15,000 girls across a 14-county region, envisioning a world where girls know and activate their limitless potential and pursue their dreams. We inspire girls to be healthy and confident with a fun curriculum that integrates running and community service.

“Girls on the Run taught me that it’s OK to be different and how to be a good friend. I liked collecting food for the animal shelter, too.”

— Lucretia, age 10 “I am happy my girls could participate and were not excluded because of what the program teaches and due to finances. My girls were accepted.”

— Kate, mom of two Girls on the Run of WNC participants gotrwnc.org • (828) 713-4290

SPECIAL OFFERS All Souls Counseling Center An anonymous dedicated donor will match the first $800 in donations.

Girls on the Run The first $1,500 donated will be matched by an anonymous donor. • The first 10 donors of $50 or more will get one (single person) free registration for the next GOTR 5K, in 2021.

Give now at givelocalguide.org The

Giving

$1,000 Advertising Campaign

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Games

Three nonprofits with the most Give!Local donors will each win a $1,000 Mountain Xpress advertising campaign — one prize for each of three sizes of nonprofits (small, medium and large revenue categories).

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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HE ALTH AND WELLNESS

Manna FoodBank MANNA FoodBank’s mission is to involve, educate and unite people in the work of ending hunger in Western North Carolina. MANNA works with 240-plus nonprofit partners in 16 counties to distribute food to thousands facing hunger. In 2019-2020, MANNA distributed enough food for 18 million meals.

“For any MANNA donor — of personal services, goods in kind, money or property — a gift marks the beginning of rewarding relationships. You’ll be inspired year after year by MANNA’s innovative, adaptive leadership and staff; dedicated corps of volunteers; and the supportive WNC community we all seek to serve. Sound organizational stewardship, efficiency, transparency and integrity are the bedrock, placing MANNA at the top of the nation’s charities. But the beating heart of the organization and your principal ongoing reward as a donor will be your connections with its ever-expanding circle of wonderful people.”

— Hal Lewis, MANNA supporter mannafoodbank.org • (828) 299-3663

MemoryCare MemoryCare is a nationally recognized, local nonprofit serving Western North Carolina families affected by Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia for the past 20 years. Our mission is to provide specialized medical care to older adults with cognitive impairment; to support caregivers with education, counseling and improved access to services; and to provide community education. Educational programs and peer support groups are available to all with need.

“Although the journey was not easy for us, MemoryCare helped me avoid many medical and emotional pitfalls. For this reason, I believe the people of Western North Carolina are fortunate to have the resources of MemoryCare available.”

— Dale Rusk, caregiver memorycare.org • (828) 771-2219

Western Carolina Medical Society Foundation The Western Carolina Medical Society Foundation aims to increase access to health care, fight health inequities and promote wellness in WNC. Our programs include: Project Access®, which provides free or very lowcost health care to low-income, uninsured residents of Buncombe and Madison counties; the WCMS Interpreter Network, providing language services for the Deaf and limited English proficient populations in WNC; the Dr. Charles Blair Health Scholar Fund; the Healthy Healer Program, which offers wellness and self-care resources for medical providers in WNC; and more! Please connect with us to learn more about our work.

“As a medical student rotating in clinics across WNC, I cannot emphasize enough how important Project Access is to patients who would otherwise be unable to obtain necessary medical care.”

— Leeallie Carter, UNC medical student mywcms.org • (828) 274-2267 • denise@mywcms.org

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WNC Birth Center We are Western North Carolina’s first fully accredited, free-standing nurse midwife-staffed birth center. We offer safe, family-centered, comprehensive, evidence-based maternity and well-woman care. As of September 2020, we have delivered 802 babies! When we look to the future, we are excited to grow all our services, including well-women care and lactation consulting. Your donation will go a long way toward ensuring our future and our ability to provide midwifery services to the women and families of WNC. “This is an amazing facility! I wish that everyone could give birth here.

As a patient, I felt supported, heard, seen and valued. The staff is amazing and very caring.”

— Kathleen McMenamin Vicars WNCbirthcenter.com • (828) 378-0075 • info@wncbirthcenter.com

SPECIAL OFFERS Manna FoodBank All donors will be entered into a raffle for a beautiful, gallery-quality piece of pottery donated by one of our fabulous, local Empty Bowls artisans.

WNC Birth Center

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

A friend of the birth center will match the first $1,000 in gifts.

Give now at givelocalguide.org

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

The joy of giving is in the giving itself, but Give!Local wants you to get rewarded, too…

2020 2021

GIVE $25-$399

... and get a voucher book filled with great freebies and discounts from some favorite local spots.

GIVE $400-$1,499

... and get the voucher book plus gift certificates for goods, services, experiences and dining.

GIVE $1,500 OR MORE

... and get the voucher book plus a basket of goodies with local products and gift certificates.

Book Voucher Voucher Book

2020 20 21

*see page 8 for details

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

GIVE Online NOVEMBER 1 – DECEMBER 31

at

givelocalguide.org It’s fast, fun and easy!

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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EDUCATION

EDUCATION

Asheville City Schools Foundation The Asheville City Schools Foundation is an independent organization whose work strengthens opportunities for students in Asheville City Schools. ACSF’s work impacts over 4,400 students each year through after-school programming, grants to educators, teaching artist classroom residencies, emergency assistance for ACS families and college scholarships. ACSF supports students by reengaging and reconnecting during the current crisis so they can lead a creative life and become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.

“In Real Life After-School (IRL) has really encouraged me to do what I love. Because of IRL, I have a mindset of what I want to do in life and what degree I want in college. IRL is really fun. I love it.”

— Serenity, AMS student acsf.org • (828) 350-6174

Buncombe Partnership for Children Buncombe Partnership for Children is on a mission to strengthen the capacity of early educators, families and the community to build a strong foundation for children’s learning and development. BPFC invests in children from birth to age 5 and their families, caretakers and early educators by partnering with local organizations to offer programs that improve the quality of early care and education; increase access to affordable, highquality early care and education; expand early literacy opportunities; support children’s healthy development; and provide family support.

“Access to quality early care and education is fundamental for the growth and development of children — and for working families. Successful children and families are needed for a thriving community. Buncombe Partnership for Children’s work is vital!”

— Jennie Eblen, Vice President, Eblen Short Stop Stores and child advocate buncombepfc.org • (828) 285-9333

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County Children First’s mission is to empower children and their families to reach their full potential through advocacy, education and services. The mission of Communities In Schools is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Student Support Specialists work in K-6 schools to support students with improvement goals related to attendance, behavior, coursework and parent engagement, and provide after-school enrichment in affordable housing communities. Family Resource Centers offer food boxes, clothing, school supplies, emergency financial assistance and much more.

“I always wanted to become famous for track and Ms. Dani showed me that if I really wanted to become famous, I would have to work for it.

And until this day, I work super hard to get there.”

— Former student childrenfirstcisbc.org • (828) 259-9717

SPECIAL OFFERS Asheville City Schools Foundation A generous, anonymous donor will match all gifts to ACSF, up to a total matching contribution of $5,000. • The first 20 donors contributing $100 or more will receive two complimentary High Five espresso drinks.

Buncombe Partnership for Children The first $4,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar by Jennie Eblen and anonymous donors. • The first 40 gifts of $40-$74 will receive a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn. • The first five gifts of $75-$149 will receive a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn. • The first two gifts of $150-$299 will receive a pair of tickets for the Haunted Asheville Ghost Tours classic walking tour, a new book from Malaprop’s, a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn. • The first three gifts of $300 or more will receive a pair of tickets for the Navitat Canopy Adventures Mountaintop Tour, a new book from Malaprop’s, a $10 gift certificate from Green Sprouts Baby, a $10 gift certificate from Ginger’s Revenge Craft Brewery and a $10 gift certificate from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn.

Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County Publix Super Markets Charities will match up to $3,000 in donations. • Donors of $150 or more will be entered in two drawings: One for two tickets to Navitat Canopy Adventures’ Mountaintop Tour (expires 11/30/2021). And one for a gift basket of local business goodies, including two six-packs from Devil’s Foot Beverage Co., 2 ounces of loose-leaf tea from Asheville Tea Co., a swag bag from Hillman Beer (sign, tank top, two koozies, sunglasses and a sticker) and a liter of Highland’s Cold Mountain (2020). (Winner must be 21 or older.)

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Give now at

givelocalguide.org

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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EDUCATION

Literacy Council of Buncombe County The Literacy Council of Buncombe County’s mission is to increase comprehensive literacy and English language skills through specialized instruction by trained tutors and access to literacy resources. We serve students in four programs: Adult Literacy, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Youth Literacy and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Improved literacy skills benefit not only the struggling reader, but everyone in our community regardless of age, race, gender or background.

“Dan began to work regularly with his tutor in January 2019 and progressed more quickly than anyone expected. While many students who start at Dan’s level can take almost a year to move through the first Wilson Reading System book, he is now in book three. But the most significant personal goal Dan wanted to achieve finally came in the spring, and his tutor happily passed the information on in his tutor log: ‘Read to son!

Bo & Peter! Yay!’” — Rebecca Massey, Adult Literacy program director Litcouncil.com • (828) 254-3442

Muddy Sneakers Muddy Sneakers is an award-winning outdoor science education program that partners with public elementary schools to teach curriculum-aligned topics to fifth grade students on nearby protected lands. In the 20192020 school year, the nonprofit served more than 3,500 students in 47 schools across North Carolina. Since many students are now learning remotely, Muddy Sneakers has adapted its traditional model to provide remote and virtual science expeditions to continue to inspire the joy of learning outside, even if it’s only from your own backyard. During this time, Muddy Sneakers is working to ensure all administrators, educators and students have the resources they need to maintain well-being outside the classroom. Your gift today will allow us to reach further.

“Muddy Sneakers works really hard to meet the diverse needs of our students, is patient and kind. Our students love Muddy Sneakers!”

— Fifth grade teacher at Claxton Elementary School muddysneakers.org • (828) 862-5560 • info@muddysneakers.org

My Daddy Taught Me That The mission of My Daddy Taught Me That is to support young males’ development into righteous, respectable and responsible men. We achieve that goal through youth development programming and advocacy focused on eradicating the education-achievement and economic-mobility gaps that affect young men living in the city of Asheville and Buncombe County.

“MDTMT is an awesome organization teaching our youth much-needed life skills and exposing them to opportunities they may have never had.

MDTMT is a generational extension of helping community youth.”

— Priscilla Ndiaye, community leader mydaddytaughtmethat.org • (828) 582-2261

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

OpenDoors of Asheville OpenDoors of Asheville’s mission is “to break the cycle of poverty through education, one child at a time.” We focus on students and families who are most affected by the race-based achievement gap. Our To and Through college program supports local students, grades 4 through college graduation, with services including educational consulting, access to tutoring, enrichment activities and emergency resources. We prepare students growing up in multigenerational poverty to enter college and graduate with little to no student debt. Our @OpenDoors program provides on-site remote learning, homework help, field trips, glass blowing, recording arts and more.

“Education is incredibly important to me. I think that’s why I want to become a journalist or a teacher, because I value knowledge. ... School is more than me graduating and going to college; it represents me breaking the mold, and becoming an adult and a role model that I didn’t have growing up.”

— Eric Loyd opendoorsasheville.org • (828) 239-8811

SPECIAL OFFERS Literacy Council of Buncombe County Donors who give $50-$99 will receive a $5 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore and Café. • Donors who give $100 and up will receive a $15 coupon for Malaprop’s Bookstore and Café.

My Daddy Taught Me That Donors who give $50-$199 will receive a copy of My Daddy Taught Me That, the book by Keynon Lake. • Donors who give $200-$499 will receive the official MDTMT letterman jacket. • Donors who give $500-$999 will get the MDTMT two-piece sweatsuit. • Donors who give $1,000 or more will enjoy a special day with MDTMT youths and staff.

OpenDoors of Asheville The first $3,000 in donations will be matched by a collective of two generous donors. • Every person donating will receive 20%

off a haircut at The Local Barber & Tap.

Let’s stay connected .

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= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

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EDUCATION

The POP Project The POP Project finds new homes for used books at schools, community centers, hospitals and other locations around the community. Our goal is to make sure all books we are entrusted with are used for constructive, personal expansion. Because everyone deserves a good book.

“I appreciate so much what the POP Project is doing to help provide teachers with wonderful texts that our students can really get excited about reading!’”

— Shannon Reyes, fourth grade teacher Candler Elementary thePOPproject.org

Verner Center for Early Learning Verner provides high-quality home-based and center-based early care and education to children ages 6 weeks–5 years in families’ homes and at three locations, with a new center at Emma Elementary opening in 2021.

We offer Early Head Start, NC Pre-K, child care subsidy and private-pay options. Verner supports children and families with our Family Empowerment Program, providing opportunities for caregivers to continue their education. Rainbow In My Tummy® provides children with access to nutritious foods and helps families to eat healthy. Dynamic outdoor learning environments and experiential gardens provide an abundance of places for children to gather, learn and grow.

“I notice the teachers at Verner going out of their way to connect with me and my child and to build a level of trust that my child sees and appreciates. My child is happy, and I am eager to watch her grow!”

— A Verner parent vernerearlylearning.org • (828) 298-0808

SPECIAL OFFERS Verner Center for Early Learning An anonymous donor will match donations dollar for dollar, up to $5,000.

Give now at

givelocalguide.org

30

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

Grow Your Gift

When you give $100, n the organizatio receives

$200!*

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina

will match your contribution to any of the 2020 Give!Local animal welfare organizations.* *Your contribution must be $25 or more. *CFWNC will match your gift, dollar for dollar, up to $100. *One matching gift per donor per organization.

CFWNC’s total contribution is limited to $7,000.

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina works with families, businesses and nonprofits to strengthen communities through the creation of charitable funds and strategic grantmaking. A permanent charitable resource, the Foundation manages over 1,100 funds and facilitated $22 million in grants last year, bringing total giving to more than $276 million since its founding in 1978. Learn more at www.cfwnc.org.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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ANIMALS

ANIMALS

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge Rescue. Rehab. Release. Relate. That’s the mission of Appalachian Wild, a nonprofit founded in 2014 to provide care for injured and orphaned native wildlife, support the wildlife rehabilitation network and provide conservation education to the community. Serving nearly 2,000 mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in peril each year from counties throughout WNC, Appalachian Wild provides a vital service to the community. If you find orphaned or injured wildlife in need of help, call the Emergency Wildlife Hotline at 828-633-6364, ext. 1, or send an email to wildlife@ appalachianwild.org. Supporting Appalachian Wild helps save wild lives!

“Appalachian Wild’s commitment to caring for injured and orphaned animals is a vital and necessary part of sustaining and strengthening the wilderness that we see and enjoy around us every single day.” ­— Catherine Nash Gay, owner of Diamond Brand appalachianwild.org • (828) 633-6364

Asheville Humane Society We’re about hope, not heartache. As Buncombe County’s critical safety net since 1984, we are always here to save and protect every animal. We have mastered the art of saving lives within our walls, and now we are going even further, helping our community’s pets and their people thrive together. We are going beyond a no-kill community to ensure that each animal has the quality of life they deserve – a life worth living.

“I know that I am helping an organization that cares deeply for the animals of our community and works tirelessly themselves to provide health, safety and happiness to all of the animals in their care. … I am thrilled to be a small part of that work.”

— Meghan Lavender, AHS supporter ashevillehumane.org • (828) 761-2001

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Brother Wolf Animal Rescue works throughout Western North Carolina to positively impact the lives of thousands of companion animals each year through adoption, spaying and neutering, rural shelter partnerships, fostering, community cats and more. Together, we save lives.

“As a longtime volunteer at Brother Wolf, I have had the great privilege of seeing firsthand how impactful their programs are for animals, as well as for those who love them, on both an individual and a systemic level.

Their ability to respond to specific needs as they arise and also proactively address the larger structural issues that perpetuate those needs is truly amazing. We are exceedingly fortunate to have Brother Wolf in our community.”

— Rob Campbell, Brother Wolf volunteer bwar.org • (828) 505-3440 ext. 105

SPECIAL OFFERS 100% of your

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge Each donor who gives $50 or more will receive a “Back to the Wild” package, which includes a plush animal of a native species (squirrel, rabbit, beaver, frog, etc.) and a certificate highlighting the species and thanking them for their support. • Every donor giving $25 or more will be entered into a drawing for a private birding day trip with Ventures Birding Tours.

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

Asheville Humane Society Asheville Humane Society will offer a $25 adoption-fee credit for every donation of $25 or more.

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue All donations will be matched dollar for dollar by a generous donor up to $2,500.

The

Giving

Foursome at Reem’s Creek Golf Club

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Games

Donors giving $100 or more during the Give!Local campaign will be entered in a drawing for a complimentary foursome at Reem’s Creek Golf Club in Weaverville, courtesy of Appalachian Wildlife Refuge.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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ANIMALS

Friends of the WNC Nature Center The WNC Nature Center connects people of all ages with the native plants and animals of the Southern Appalachians. The wild animals that call the Nature Center home have unique stories. Most have been imprinted or permanently injured. Others are endangered and part of a Species Survival Plan. Your donation to the Friends supports the animal habitats, education programs and conservation initiatives of the WNC Nature Center.

“My daughter practically grew up at the WNC Nature Center. She was always there for summer camp, the snake beauty pageants, holiday events, and she was a member of the Young Naturalist program! Kate now works at an accredited zoo in Colorado. The WNC Nature Center and its staff did so much to nurture her love of animals and passion for conservation and education.”

— Cathy Pons wildwnc.org • (828) 259-8092

a

Friends2Ferals Providing a long-term solution to feline overpopulation in Buncombe, Henderson and Madison counties through a consistent trap-neuter-return program and low- or no-cost spay-neuter surgery at Humane Alliance. In the 13 years since its founding, Friends2Ferals/HSBC has returned about 14,000 cats to responsible care with a rabies certificate designating the person responsible for renewing the shots. Friends2Ferals/HSBC provides an FVRCP vaccine, and cats are treated for parasites and minor wounds.

“To this day I am so thankful I met Nancy at Friends2Ferals because I am still using her services in Hendersonville on a regular basis. Recently, by our business, we’ve saved half a dozen cats from having more and re-homed one with a chip to her proper owner. A much-needed nonprofit that benefits so many animals and people in our area in WNC.” — Theresa Kisielewski, smallbusiness owner and volunteer avl.mx/33o • (828) 505-6737

Full Moon Farm Full Moon Farm provides a forever, safe haven for animals that cannot be placed into homes. Our rescued wolfdogs come from animal control agencies, closed breeding situations and owners in crisis. Our goal is to enrich the lives of the residents, allowing them to reach their highest potential.

“Full Moon Farm is my home away from home. It is a sanctuary not only for wolfdogs, but for humans as well. My first visit, I was greeted with happy, tired faces of volunteers who make a difference in the wolfdog community and help educate people about these animals. They do this out of love. I have come to the farm for almost 10 years. I have loved each moment. I would not be the same person if it weren’t for this place and one lady who turned a passion into a sanctuary and so much more.”

— Katie DeWitt, volunteer, sponsor, intern and friend fullmoonfarm.org • (828) 664-9818

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Wild for Life Wild for Life inspires and engages the WNC community about the intrinsic value of and our connection with wildlife and wild places around us through avian rehabilitation and environmental education. Our focus is on birds of prey and adult songbirds, and we have state and federal licenses that permit us to care for and release injured native animals. Also requiring licensing, WFL maintains educational nonreleasable raptors for educational programs that stimulate and engage our neighbors.

“My association with Wild for Life began in the mid-1990s, and since that time, my admiration for their commitment to restoration for injured or orphaned wild birds has continued to grow. Wild for Life is the preeminent program for wildlife rehabilitation in Western North Carolina.

The work done by Wild for Life is nothing short of amazing, and I urge everyone to learn more about their remarkable work on behalf of all forms of native birds and animals.”

— Leslie D. Hines Jr., Lenoir wildforlife.org • (828) 665-4341

SPECIAL OFFERS Friends of the WNC Nature Center Gifts of $100 or more will be matched up to $3,500, thanks to Weiler Woods for Wildlife. • Donors of $20 or more will receive a free day pass to the WNC Nature Center. • Donors of $50 or more will receive a Nature Center animal magnet and a day pass. • Donors of $100 or more will receive a T-shirt featuring Karma, the Nature Center’s endangered red wolf, an animal magnet and a day pass. • Donors of $250 or more will receive a guided tour of the Nature Center for four people, a red wolf T-shirt and animal magnet. • Donors of $250 or more will be entered to win a chance to go on habitat with red pandas Leafa and Phoenix in 2021.

Friends2Ferals Donors of $10 or more will receive a $5 merchandise coupon for Patton Avenue Pet Co.

Full Moon Farm Donors of $25 or more will receive a Full Moon Farm patch. • Donors of $50 or more will additionally be invited to schedule a tour of Full Moon Farm for up to four people.

The joy of giving is in the giving itself, but Give!Local wants you to get rewarded, too…

2020 2021

GIVE $25-$399

... and get a voucher book filled with great freebies and discounts from some favorite local spots.

GIVE $400-$1,499

... and get the voucher book plus gift certificates for goods, services, experiences and dining.

GIVE $1,500 OR MORE

... and get the voucher book plus a basket of goodies with local products and gift certificates.

Book Voucher Voucher Book

2020 20 21

*see page 8 for details

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

35

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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ENVIRONMENT

ENVIRONMENT

EcoForesters EcoForesters is a nonprofit professional forestry organization dedicated to conserving and restoring our Appalachian forests through education and stewardship. Forestland owners and local communities benefit from EcoForesters’ ability to develop and implement forest stewardship strategies that promote future forest sustainability and resiliency. Our methods emphasize sound ecological management over other profit- and productiondriven forest management approaches. We are actively making positive impacts on the Appalachian landscape, while still helping landowners achieve their individual management objectives.

“This land is part of our history, and one of the things that has kept our family together. Our thought had been to save the land, not use it, but you showed us a way, through active stewardship, to do both — and this should make it easier for coming generations to be able to hold onto the land.”

— Marcella H., Jackson County ecoforesters.org • (828) 484-6842

Friends of the Smokies Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park assists the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park by raising funds and public awareness, and providing volunteers for needed projects.

“I support Friends of the Smokies because they provide funding to protect our native brook trout. But whatever you love about Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Friends supports! Whether it’s trails, old historic farmsteads, wildlife or beautiful views, Friends of the Smokies is working hard to care for our park so we can all enjoy it forever.”

— Cabell Brand, volunteer FriendsOfTheSmokies.org • (828) 452-0720

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Green Built Alliance We’re people who care about where we live — our homes, neighborhoods and the planet. Since 2001, we have been advancing sustainability in the built environment through community education, measurable standards and regional action. We make a difference by hosting original educational events, distributing the annual Green Building Directory, managing the Blue Horizons Project community campaign and implementing programs such as Green Built Homes and Appalachian Offsets.

“We were hurtling toward the abyss of environmental destruction and degradation. … Green Built Alliance will have us turn around and begin the critical work of making the world ever so slightly better, more sustainable, more equitable with every step, however small and seemingly insignificant. We are making this imperative turn today. Come along.”

— Stephens Smith Farrell, architect Greenbuilt.org • (828) 254-1995 • info@greenbuilt.org

SPECIAL OFFERS EcoForesters The first 10 donors of $25 or more will get a $5 gift card to Hole Doughnuts. • Donors of $50 or more will get an EcoForesters T-shirt. • Donors of $75 or more will get an EcoForesters T-shirt and a pint glass.

Friends of the Smokies Donors who contribute $35 or more will receive a Friends of the Smokies membership, which includes discounts at Great Smoky Mountains National Park bookstores, and a sticker. • Donors who contribute $50 or more will receive all of the above, plus a certified Great Smoky Mountains National Park trail map. • Donors who contribute $100 or more will receive all of the above, plus a Friends of the Smokies mask. • Donors who contribute $200 or more will receive all of the above, plus a complimentary registration for one 2021 Classic Hikes of the Smokies.

Green Built Alliance For every $20 donated, 1 ton of carbon emissions will be offset through the nonprofit’s Appalachian Offsets program that performs energy-efficiency upgrades in local schools, nonprofits and affordable housing. • Donors contributing $50-$100 will receive a Green Built Alliance T-shirt. • Donors contributing $100 or more will receive a Green Built Alliance sweatshirt.

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

Give now at

givelocalguide.org

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

39

ENVIRONMENT

MountainTrue MountainTrue champions resilient forests, clean waters and healthy communities in the Southern Blue Ridge. We envision thriving communities in our mountain region that are connected to and help sustain both each other and our natural environment. To achieve this, MountainTrue fosters and empowers residents throughout the region to engage in community planning, policy and project advocacy, and on-the-ground projects.

“I support MountainTrue because they are effective at promoting policies for a more sustainable environment and in taking polluters to task in the courts.”

— Mike Figura, broker and owner, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty mountaintrue.org • (828) 258-8737

RiverLink RiverLink promotes the environmental and economic vitality of the French Broad River and its watershed as a place to live, learn, work and play. A “go-to” organization for environmental education, water quality, and urban riverfront issues and concerns, RiverLink provides a wide array of services focused on river health, access and revitalization. RiverLink believes in inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards and provides environmental education opportunities to 3,300 local students and empowers over 1,000 volunteers each year. RiverLink strives to connect our community to the river and improve the health of the French Broad River, leading to the overall environmental and economic health of our region.

“With RiverLink’s vision, the French Broad River can be healthy, accessible and part of a vibrant economy that protects and values the river’s health and builds community around it.”

— Leah Wong Ashburn, President/CEO, Highland Brewing riverlink.org • (828) 252-8474

SPECIAL OFFERS Give now at

givelocalguide.org

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

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MountainTrue Donors giving $50 or more will receive a Mast General Store 15% off coupon (single, regularly priced item). • Donors giving $250 or more will receive a MountainTrue hat and the Mast General Store coupon. • Donors giving $500 or more will receive a MountainTrue backpack, a MountainTrue hat and the Mast General Store coupon. • Donors giving $100 or more will be entered to win one pair of Biltmore Estate passes.

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy A generous, anonymous gift will match all donations up to $5,000. • Every person donating $100 or more to Southern Appalachian Highland Conservancy will receive a $10 gift card from Wicked Weed.

MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy We permanently protect and steward our region’s most beloved natural areas. When you support local land and water conservation, you ensure our lands, our waters, our wildlife, our farms and our way of life will be there for future generations. By preserving vital resources, you improve the quality of life and continue building healthy and vibrant communities, forever.

“It is our hope that by working together with SAHC, we can continue to preserve our environment — its beauty, its water, its open spaces, its inhabitants. It is what gives us life, both literally and figuratively.”

— Lisa Cooper, president of Mast General Store Appalachian.org • (828) 253-0095

The

Giving

Games

Eco-Cabin

Two-Night Stay

Donors who give $25 or more by midnight on Dec. 31 will be entered to win a two-night stay for two in an Eco-Cabin on Franny’s Farm.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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SOCIAL JUSTICE

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity Asheville Habitat believes that everyone deserves a decent place to live.

For nearly four decades, we have worked to expand access to stable, healthy homes and help close the racial homeownership gap. Through our affordable Homeownership program, families achieve strength, stability and self-reliance to build a better future. Our Home Repair program helps local residents age with safety, security and dignity in the home they already own and the community they love.

Stable housing is linked to better educational outcomes, improved health, greater financial security, strengthened communities and so much more.

Everyone deserves a decent place to live, and everyone can do something to help make that possible for another family.

“We’re excited to finally have a place to start living, instead of just surviving.”

— Danyelle Angel, Habitat homeowner ashevillehabitat.org • (828) 251-5702

Asheville Poverty Initiative Asheville Poverty Initiative aims to eradicate poverty by building relationships across socioeconomic boundaries. Our 12 Baskets Cafe gathers community to celebrate abundance, reduce food waste and foster dialogue about how the community is better and more whole when we know all of our neighbors. Simply by sitting and eating with someone you might otherwise never bump into: Stereotypes are dismantled. Fear is reduced.

Hope is empowered.

“With the pandemic adding greater economic challenges to the community, 12B’s message is clear: We are made for these times, and we’re in it together! Using local food, generously donated, that might otherwise be wasted. We are reminded ‘there is enough,’ and even masks can’t hide smiles as abundance is shared. As a volunteer who gets more than I give at 12 Baskets, I see how strength of spirit and hope can be fueled by the simple gesture of sharing food.”

— Anne Bergeron, 12 Baskets companion ashevillepovertyinitiative.org • (828) 232-2149

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

BeLoved Asheville The mission of BeLoved Asheville is to cultivate a transformational way of life rooted in community, creativity and equity that brings people from diverse backgrounds to use their voices, skills and unique gifts to create innovative solutions for some of the toughest challenges we face: racism and systemic inequities, food and housing security, poverty, and inequities in health care. Our projects include our BeLoved Village of deeply affordable micro homes; the first homeless street medic team in the nation; cultural organizing and racial healing projects via Proud to Be Brown, Asheville en Espanol and Asheville in Black; and rapid response/long-term relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There is an emerging worldwide movement aimed at providing social and economic justice for everyone. BeLoved Asheville is part of this movement. I deeply admire BeLoved’s tireless efforts toward alleviating social injustice and their unfaltering commitment to the betterment of our local community and humanity at large.”

— Brian Haynes, Asheville native and City Council member belovedasheville.com • (828) 242-8261

Helpmate Helpmate works with our community to eliminate abuse and fear by providing safety, shelter and support for victims/survivors of intimate partner domestic violence.

“I value the working relationship between the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office and Helpmate. We work together to make sure that domestic violence perpetrators are held accountable and survivors are supported.

Thank you to Helpmate for this important work.”

— Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller helpmateonline.org • (828) 254-2968, 24/7 Hotline: (828) 254-0516

SPECIAL OFFERS Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity Donors giving $50 or more will receive a handmade pottery magnet – colors vary – made by our own Ariane Kjellquist.

BeLoved Asheville The first $2,000 in donations will be matched by Asheville Home Realty. • Donors of $250 or more will be the named sponsor of an upcoming cultural event. • Donors of $500 will adopt a Street Pantry to be filled through the winter months for friends on the streets. • Donors of $750 will be named sponsors of a neighborhood community distribution hub for COVID-19 relief. • Donors of $3,000 or more get a named sponsorship of a kitchen in BeLoved Village. • Donors of $100 or more are entered into a raffle for a BeLoved prize package.

Helpmate Donors of $25 or more will receive a coupon for one pour of Highland beer at the brewery taproom.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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SOCIAL JUSTICE

Homeward Bound of WNC Homeward Bound’s mission is to end homelessness through permanent housing and support. We have moved 2,150 individuals, families and veterans into homes, and 89% have not returned to homelessness. Last year more than 3,000 people came through the doors of AHOPE, our homeless day center in downtown Asheville. We served 80,000 cups of coffee, provided 26,000 showers and gave out 16,000 pairs of socks, along with a variety of other services to help folks be as stable and comfortable as possible while homeless.

“I worked with Wes, Molly and Miranda at Homeward Bound, and I have never felt so welcomed. They offered me complete encouragement with no judgment whatsoever.”

— Jessica, veteran housed since 2019 HomewardBoundWNC.org • (828) 785-9840

Just Economics Just Economics’ mission is to educate, advocate and organize for a just and sustainable local economy that works for all in Western North Carolina.

“Just Economics has been doing great work in our community for years that has personally affected my life for the better. I now work for two living-wage-certified businesses. There is better and more frequent bus service due to their advocacy, and I have learned ways to lift my voice for change after taking their VOICES training. Just Economics brings together all kinds of people, from business owners to workers, to discuss and help build a better economy for all. I am thankful for all the amazing work they do for our community.”

— Samantha Simpson JustEconomicsWNC.org • (828) 505-7466

Our VOICE In the pursuit of a community that is free of sexual violence, Our VOICE serves all individuals in Buncombe County affected by sexual assault, abuse and human trafficking, through counseling, advocacy and education.

“My sense of integrity and resolve would not have been possible had Our VOICE not existed. ... I feel ownership of my sense of self.”

— Client from Our VOICE’s 1 in 6 Program for male survivors “I’m not sure I would have ever realized how connected my negative coping was related to trauma. I don’t feel crazy anymore.”

— Our VOICE client and survivor ourvoicenc.org • Business phone: (828) 252-0562; 24-Hour Crisis line: (828) 255-7576

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Pisgah Legal Services During COVID-19, and since 1978, Pisgah Legal Services has been a source of hope for people struggling to makes ends meet. We believe that justice is for everyone, not just those who can afford a lawyer. We provide free, civil legal aid that helps people with low incomes meet basic needs, including protection from domestic violence, avoiding homelessness and accessing health care. Pisgah Legal helps more than 18,000 people annually across WNC with 29 staff attorneys and approximately 300 volunteer attorneys.

“It makes me feel good knowing that I have full legal guardianship of my brother and sister. I was there when they were born. Even if my mother hadn’t passed away, I would still have that special bond with them.

Pisgah Legal was such a big help — especially during this COVID time — not to try to figure out how to pay for a lawyer, search for the right one and figure out which one is best.”

— Capri pisgahlegal.org/give • (828) 253-0406

SPECIAL OFFERS Homeward Bound of WNC Creating Hope and Homes matching gift challenge will match all donations up to $100,000 dollar for dollar, thanks to two generous families. • All donors of $300 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a basket full of Homeward Bound goodies.

Our VOICE Donors giving $10 or more will receive a complimentary coffee from Izzy’s Downtown Coffee Den or Izzy’s West Coffee House. • Donors giving $20 or more will receive a specialty coffee drink from Izzy’s and a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop. • Donors giving $50 or more will receive a 12-ounce bag of coffee from Izzy’s and a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop. • Donors giving $100 or more will receive a 12-ounce bag of coffee from Izzy’s, a single scoop of ice cream from The Hop and a special edition Our VOICE face mask that reads “BREAK THE SILENCE.”

Pisgah Legal Services All gifts made to support Pisgah Legal’s COVID-19 response work are being matched dollar for dollar up to $140,000 by generous donors. • The first 10 donors who donate $25 or more will receive a $10 gift card to City Bakery.

The

Giving

Mystery Drawings

Games

?

Every week, in November and December, we’ll pick a winner for a gift card valued at $20 or more from a local business.

Give any amount, any time, and you’ll be entered in all remaining drawings.

100% of your

donation goes to the nonprofits, thanks to BLUE MOUNTAIN PIZZA

= MATCHING OFFER Nonprofits with this icon have offers to match donations made to them.

2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL

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GIVE Online NOVEMBER 1 – DECEMBER 31

at

givelocalguide.org It’s fast, fun and easy!

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MOUNTAIN XPRESS GIVE!LOCAL | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | 2020

Thank you!

To sponsors for making the project possible. ...and all the local businesses that are providing goods & services to reward the donors.

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COMMUNITY ABCCM 103.3 Asheville FM Blue Ridge Pride Council on Aging of Buncombe County The Mediation Center Open Hearts Art Center Working Wheels

Western Carolina Medical Society Foundation WNC Birth Center

Verner Center for Early Learning

ANIMALS

EDUCATION Asheville City Schools Foundation Buncombe Partnership for Children Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County Literacy Council of Buncombe County Muddy Sneakers My Daddy Taught Me That OpenDoors of Asheville The POP Project

HEALTH & WELLNESS All Souls Counseling Center Bounty & Soul Girls on the Run Manna FoodBank MemoryCare

Green Built Alliance MountainTrue RiverLink Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge Asheville Humane Society Brother Wolf Animal Rescue Friends of the WNC Nature Center Friends2Ferals (Buncombe Humane) Full Moon Farm Wild for Life

SOCIAL JUSTICE Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity Asheville Poverty Initiative BeLoved Asheville Helpmate Homeward Bound of WNC Just Economics Our VOICE Pisgah Legal Services

ENVIRONMENT EcoForesters Friends of the Smokies

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THANK YOU! Give!Local 2020 Mountain Xpress P.O. Box 144 Asheville, NC 28802

If you donate $25 or more, we’d like to send you some neat stuff in January.

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2020 | GIVELOCALGUIDE.ORG | MOUNTAIN GIVE!LOCAL Would you like your donation to beXPRESS anonymous?

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