MAHEC has released its Hope After Helene report, spotlighting their wide-reaching impact following Hurricane Helene. From staffing emergency shelters and clinics to delivering babies and offering mental health support, the nonprofit mobilized quickly and effectively to meet WNC’s needs. The report also honors staff who lost homes and vehicles, with 82 employees receiving aid through an emergency fund established with support from donors nationwide. https://mahec.net/news-story/hope-after-helene
Mission Health celebrates National Volunteer Month by highlighting the efforts of team members across Western North Carolina. From sorting food to cleaning streets and wrapping diapers, their service has had a direct impact on neighbors and families throughout the region – part of a broader culture of care rooted in the HCA Healthcare system. https://missionhealth.org
Buncombe County is asking residents to help shape the county’s five-year strategic plan by participating in the Envision Buncombe survey. As we rebuild and rethink priorities post-Helene, this survey will guide future recovery projects and ensure all voices are heard. https://engage.buncombecounty.org/envisionbuncombe
Get in Gear Fest returns Saturday, April 26, featuring adventure sports, live music, and family-friendly activities. Hosted at the Adventure Center of Asheville, proceeds support Camp Lakey Gap Autism Programs. https://ashevilletreetopsadventurepark.com/get-in-gear-festival/
Spring Art Fling at Reynolds Village takes place on Saturday, May 3. This celebration of local artists and makers includes community fun and benefits the Woodfin Elementary School Arts Program. https://crawfordsq.com
Doggett Gap Tiny Music & Heritage Festival will be held May 2–3 at Rare Bird Farm in Spring Creek. This “tiny festival” celebrates local roots music and regional craft in a low-impact, high-connection format. https://www.rarebirdfarm.org
Downtown in Bloom is in full swing! Businesses can participate in the Best Bloomin’ Beverage Contest, host spring-themed events, or join in the floral display fun through May 31. https://ashevilledowntown.org
The Radical in the River Arts District is blooming with events—from Supper at Six women’s dinners and drag bingo to art shows and DJ sessions. Catch the Mother’s Day brunch on May 11 or take in their latest gallery exhibit. https://www.theradicalavl.com
NC Stage Company presents King James by Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph, running April 24–May 18. This funny, moving story explores friendship, fandom, and the legacy of LeBron James. https://ncstage.org
Leadership
Dr. Samantha Sircey has been promoted to campus president at South College Asheville. A lifelong educator and Asheville native, Sircey brings decades of experience to this new role, where she will continue supporting student success and academic excellence. https://south.edu/asheville
Innovation
MAHEC is now offering the Centering Parenting® program at its Biltmore location, thanks to a grant from the First Horizon Foundation. This group-based model of well-child care fosters connection and confidence among new parents. It’s the only program of its kind in WNC. https://mahec.net/family-health/centering-parenting