In my second week interning at the Chamber of Commerce in the Asheville area, I became a member of the economic development team. Working in this department I was able to sit in on important meetings regarding important issues. I became familiar with a non-profit organization called Handmade in America . I’ve learned that this organization supports and promote local artists. I was surprised to see that beautiful, extravagant art work is being produced in my home town. I also had the pleasure of talking to the Chairman of the Economic Development Coalition (EDC), Buncombe County Commissioner K.Ray Bailey & ARRA Project Manager Brenda G. Mills. They are both powerful people, who gave the me some of the best advice about school and life in general. Clark Duncan, Director of Marketing for the EDC, and I also had lunch with an owner of a software company, who is considering moving his business to the area. Thus far, I am loving the Chamber. I am thrilled to see what the other departments have in store.
– Asia Porter (CAYLA Intern)
CAYLA is a youth leadership program through the City of Asheville that helps teenagers build leadership and give back to the community.