Founded in May 2025, Community Health & Wellness Collective Services is a non-profit organization that focuses on improving the lives of the community through health education, wellness initiatives, aging services, community research and advocacy. The Collective grew out of its Executive Director’s own journey as a teen mom, navigating complex systems and wishing there was someone to educate and advocate for them. Today, the organization focuses on making health and wellness accessible and empowering people to make changes for longer, healthier lives.
We spoke with Kelly White, Founder and Executive Director, about why she chose WNC, the importance of prioritizing one’s health and what community means to her.
What made you choose the Asheville area?
Born and raised in the area, I have witnessed significant growth and development in the programs offered within the community. Choosing to build the organization in WNC was intentional. The community helped to shape our values, and the lived experience provides a deep understanding of the region’s strengths and challenges.
Who are your key partners?
The Collective’s key partners are mission-aligned organizations that value equity, collaboration and practical solutions to support community well-being. The best partnerships create smooth transitions within the community, becoming part of a hub model in which people seeking help don’t feel overwhelmed during their most vulnerable moments.
What has been your greatest challenge? Your greatest victory?
One of the biggest challenges has been getting people to prioritize their health and understand that we can’t care for others if we don’t first care for ourselves. One of the most rewarding victories has been seeing that vision come to life, inspiring people to make small changes that can lead to better outcomes.
If you had to give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would you say?
One of my favorite quotes is that nothing happens a minute sooner than it is supposed to.
What does the word “community” mean to you?
Community is an ecosystem of people and organizations that help each other thrive. It’s a home, a space where folks show up for one another. And when people and organizations work together, it becomes a place where barriers are removed, making life better for everyone.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your organization?
As a donation-supported nonprofit, our work is only possible because of the community members who believe in what we do. Every contribution helps us continue serving Western North Carolina.