Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive returns Saturday, May 10. Letter carriers across WNC will collect non-perishable food to support MANNA FoodBank’s Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Just place a bag of food by your mailbox before mail delivery to make a direct impact on families in need. https://mannafoodbank.org
Mast General Store has donated $20,000 in Mountain Strong funds to help downtown Spruce Pine businesses reopen after historic flooding. Their merchandise campaign has now raised $130,000 to support community recovery across the region. Learn more.
Pisgah Legal Services will host Jazz for Justice on May 28 at Highland Brewing. Enjoy live music, local bites, and stories of resilience while supporting legal aid and anti-poverty work in WNC. Longtime supporter Jerry Sternberg will be honored posthumously with the Arnold and Bernice Green Philanthropy Award. Learn more.
Education
YMCA of Western North Carolina is expanding teen mental health resources during Mental Health Awareness Month. Free programs like Youth Mental Health First Aid and Together for Wellness are available in English and Spanish, alongside a new interactive teen mental health hub. Check It out.
Mars Hill University recently honored students, faculty, and staff for service to the community at its annual awards celebration. From Salt & Light Awards to the prestigious Mac Bryan and Michael Emory recognitions, the campus continues to cultivate changemakers. Learn more.
Hire
Angelica Daus has been named the new Vice President of Air Service Development & Corporate Communications at Asheville Regional Airport. She brings extensive aviation and marketing experience from Santa Barbara Airport and will begin her role May 27.
Opening
Fitz and the Wolfe, a new cocktail and live music venue, is set to open in downtown Asheville in late May or early June. Featuring three levels of immersive nightlife experiences, this bold new concept invites guests to embrace their wild and wise sides. Follow their Instagram and be the first to know when they open their doors.
Rebrand
Kudzu Brands has unveiled a bold new rebrand this month with refreshed visuals and messaging. After 15 years, the creative agency promises there’s more to come on May 19. Learn more.
Recognition
Explore Asheville hosted its second annual Heroes of Hospitality Awards, recognizing frontline hospitality workers and the launch of a new scholarship program. Six standout individuals were honored for service following Hurricane Helene, including hospitality pros who led relief kitchens, hiked to help neighbors, and provided emotional care in times of crisis. Meet the honorees.
AdventHealth Hendersonville has earned its 18th straight “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group for hospital safety—one of the top safety records in the country. Their commitment to patient-centered care includes innovative pediatric radiation protocols. Learn more.