Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Tuesday, September 20, 2022
Four Seasons Hospice Care: New Volunteer Orientation
Sep 20 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Four Seasons Hospice Care

Four Seasons serves patients in 13 counties of western North Carolina. As a non-profit provider of hospice and palliative care services, we rely heavily on volunteers who contribute in a variety of settings. New Volunteer Orientation prepares volunteers to work in administrative offices, at the Hospice Home Store, and to provide outreach to the community. Further training is required for those who would like to serve patients and grief clients.

Join us for our next New Volunteer Orientation via Microsoft Teams on September 20, 2022 from 1pm to 3pm. To register, call the volunteer team at (828) 692-6178 or email [email protected].

Elementary After-School Volunteer Creative Peacemakers
Sep 20 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Deaverview Apartment Community

We are seeking volunteers to assist us in our small after school program for children in West Asheville in low-income housing.  We provide a safe and nourishing environment, healthy snacks, and creative activities.  Our program currently meets during the school year on most Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:00-5:00pm. You may volunteer for one or two days a week. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Assist with serving snacks
  • Interact with children during activity time
  • Supervise games and outdoor free time
  • For people with background in education, there is also an opportunity to assist with curriculum development and program planning and administration

Requirements:

  • Background check
  • Orientation booklets will be provided
  • Masks are required if unvaccinated
Wednesday, September 21, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 21 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Help Seniors Fill Out Applications for Benefits
Sep 21 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County
  • The Council on Aging of Buncombe County was formed in 1964 to address the needs of seniors in our community
  • We provide essential support to people over 60 who need assistance with food, heat or a/c, and health care
  • Our volunteers make this work possible– consider joining us today!

Our Mission Statement: Promote the Independence, dignity, and well-being of adults through service, education, and advocacy

We are looking for volunteers to work with low-income Medicare recipients as an unbiased, knowledgeable guide, providing education and assistance with navigating through the application process to help them receive much-needed assistance with the following programs:

  • Medicare Part D Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)
  • Medicare Savings Programs
  • Medicaid
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as Food Stamps)
  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

The safety of our clients is our highest priority. Here’s what’s required for this role:

  • Clear criminal background check and driving record.
  • Minimum $100,000/300,000 in auto liability coverage.
  • Orientation and training with the Council on Aging.
  • A reliable vehicle that will pass NC safety inspection.

Additionally, we are very flexible and will work with your schedule.

Who would make a strong candidate for this volunteer role?

  • You care about seniors and want to support those who need help most
  • A resident of Buncombe County, NC, or a nearby town.
  • Someone willing to learn basic education about the Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC) and what benefits are available for lower-income Seniors.
  • Someone willing to receive education about outreach, what larger events entail, and how to assist with these events.
  • Someone willing to travel around Buncombe County and set up a table at outreach events, educating the community on the services offered at Council on Aging and the Benefits Enrollment Center.
  • Someone able to assist clients with benefits applications and maintain awareness of changes to income guidelines.

If you want to help make a difference in the lives of real people right here in western North Carolina, we would love to welcome you on board as a volunteer.

YWCA Aquatics Volunteer
Sep 21 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
YWCA Asheville

YWCA of Asheville is a nonprofit organization working to bridge gaps in education, health, childcare, and earning power for women and families in the Asheville region. The mission of the YWCA of Asheville is to eliminate racism; empower women; and promote peace,  justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The YWCA indoor pool hosts a comprehensive Aquatics Program with activities for all ages, abilities, and interests.

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities 

  • Join the fun in the pool as a swim assistant. Help children and adults learn the basics of floating, kicking, breathing, and diving.
  • Support the Aquatics Program with behind-the-scenes administrative work or on-the-deck supervising

Time Commitment

  • Flexible time commitment

Volunteer Requirements

  • Background check
Thursday, September 22, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 22 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Thursday Produce Sorting/Box Prep with Bounty + Soul
Sep 22 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Bounty + Soul

Before you even begin thinking about volunteering, ask yourself – Am I well enough to volunteer?

Your safety and limiting the spread of COVID-19 is everyone’s main priority. We encourage you to review and adhere to the recommendations on the Buncombe County readiness site on how best to avoid COVID-19 and what to do if you think you might have it.


Bounty & Soul is a community-based non-profit with a mission to connect people to food, education and each other.

This opportunity involves sorting and inspecting produce donations from local grocers and placing them into food boxes that are distributed at weekly drive-thru markets. 

Time Commitment:

  • Thursdays 10am-12pm
  • Thursdays 1-3pm

Requirements:

  • Volunteers should agree to adhere to all the safety measures implemented
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs.
  • Bending, stooping, and twisting may be required
  • Closed toed shoes

Health/Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face covering when delivering items
    • Cloth covering nose and mouth
    • Fabric or disposable face mask
  • Asking volunteers to maintain physical distance of 6 feet or more when possible
    • Note: there are times when the volunteer task requires volunteers to engage closer than 6 feet. Please do not sign up if you feel uncomfortable.

 

1 and older
Is Family Friendly
Is Not Outdoors
Is Wheelchair Accessible
Verner Experiential Garden Helpers
Sep 22 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Verner Center for Early Learning

Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to children birth to five years of age throughout Buncombe County. The mission of Verner Center is to foster holistic learning environments where young children and families thrive. The organization embraces a philosophy that includes excellence in early childhood practices, diversity among children and families, and partnerships and collaboration with families and communities. This philosophy is demonstrated through provision of high quality education, family services, health and nutrition services, and professional development for teachers.

We are currently looking for compassionate volunteers to support our experiential garden.

Volunteer Opportunity Includes:

  • Pulling weeds
  • Cleaning out garden beds
  • Prepping new garden beds
  • Building small projects
  • Mowing
  • Weed eating
  • Laying mulch
  • Watering

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Respond to the shift
  • Comfortable working in various weather conditions
  • Comfortable bending, stooping, twisting
  • Ability to stand for 1-2 hours at a time
Thursday Produce Sorting/Box Prep with Bounty + Soul
Sep 22 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Bounty + Soul

Before you even begin thinking about volunteering, ask yourself – Am I well enough to volunteer?

Your safety and limiting the spread of COVID-19 is everyone’s main priority. We encourage you to review and adhere to the recommendations on the Buncombe County readiness site on how best to avoid COVID-19 and what to do if you think you might have it.


Bounty & Soul is a community-based non-profit with a mission to connect people to food, education and each other.

This opportunity involves sorting and inspecting produce donations from local grocers and placing them into food boxes that are distributed at weekly drive-thru markets. 

Time Commitment:

  • Thursdays 10am-12pm
  • Thursdays 1-3pm

Requirements:

  • Volunteers should agree to adhere to all the safety measures implemented
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs.
  • Bending, stooping, and twisting may be required
  • Closed toed shoes

Health/Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face covering when delivering items
    • Cloth covering nose and mouth
    • Fabric or disposable face mask
  • Asking volunteers to maintain physical distance of 6 feet or more when possible
    • Note: there are times when the volunteer task requires volunteers to engage closer than 6 feet. Please do not sign up if you feel uncomfortable.

 

1 and older
Is Family Friendly
Is Not Outdoors
Is Wheelchair Accessible
Elementary After-School Volunteer Creative Peacemakers
Sep 22 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Deaverview Apartment Community

We are seeking volunteers to assist us in our small after school program for children in West Asheville in low-income housing.  We provide a safe and nourishing environment, healthy snacks, and creative activities.  Our program currently meets during the school year on most Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:00-5:00pm. You may volunteer for one or two days a week. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Assist with serving snacks
  • Interact with children during activity time
  • Supervise games and outdoor free time
  • For people with background in education, there is also an opportunity to assist with curriculum development and program planning and administration

Requirements:

  • Background check
  • Orientation booklets will be provided
  • Masks are required if unvaccinated
The Beat Goes On: Lake Julian Park Drum Circle
Sep 22 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Lake Julian Park

We are shamelessly drumming up attention for our exciting new program at Lake Julian Park. Starting Thursday, March 31, Buncombe County Recreation Services is hosting a drum circle on the last Thursday of every month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The only thing you need to bring is yourself and a drum, and then just let the rhythm and beautiful scenery do the work as you enjoy the beat and comradery of fellow percussionists.

All experience levels are welcome, and registration is not required. If you have any questions, please contact Park Ranger Zach Hickok at (828) 684-0376.

 

: Every Last Thursday until -Sept. 29 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Park shelter number 2, Lake Julian Park, 26 Lake Julian R

City Dance
Sep 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, September 23, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 23 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Help Seniors Fill Out Applications for Benefits
Sep 23 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County
  • The Council on Aging of Buncombe County was formed in 1964 to address the needs of seniors in our community
  • We provide essential support to people over 60 who need assistance with food, heat or a/c, and health care
  • Our volunteers make this work possible– consider joining us today!

Our Mission Statement: Promote the Independence, dignity, and well-being of adults through service, education, and advocacy

We are looking for volunteers to work with low-income Medicare recipients as an unbiased, knowledgeable guide, providing education and assistance with navigating through the application process to help them receive much-needed assistance with the following programs:

  • Medicare Part D Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)
  • Medicare Savings Programs
  • Medicaid
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as Food Stamps)
  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

The safety of our clients is our highest priority. Here’s what’s required for this role:

  • Clear criminal background check and driving record.
  • Minimum $100,000/300,000 in auto liability coverage.
  • Orientation and training with the Council on Aging.
  • A reliable vehicle that will pass NC safety inspection.

Additionally, we are very flexible and will work with your schedule.

Who would make a strong candidate for this volunteer role?

  • You care about seniors and want to support those who need help most
  • A resident of Buncombe County, NC, or a nearby town.
  • Someone willing to learn basic education about the Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC) and what benefits are available for lower-income Seniors.
  • Someone willing to receive education about outreach, what larger events entail, and how to assist with these events.
  • Someone willing to travel around Buncombe County and set up a table at outreach events, educating the community on the services offered at Council on Aging and the Benefits Enrollment Center.
  • Someone able to assist clients with benefits applications and maintain awareness of changes to income guidelines.

If you want to help make a difference in the lives of real people right here in western North Carolina, we would love to welcome you on board as a volunteer.

YWCA Aquatics Volunteer
Sep 23 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
YWCA Asheville

YWCA of Asheville is a nonprofit organization working to bridge gaps in education, health, childcare, and earning power for women and families in the Asheville region. The mission of the YWCA of Asheville is to eliminate racism; empower women; and promote peace,  justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The YWCA indoor pool hosts a comprehensive Aquatics Program with activities for all ages, abilities, and interests.

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities 

  • Join the fun in the pool as a swim assistant. Help children and adults learn the basics of floating, kicking, breathing, and diving.
  • Support the Aquatics Program with behind-the-scenes administrative work or on-the-deck supervising

Time Commitment

  • Flexible time commitment

Volunteer Requirements

  • Background check
Saturday, September 24, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 24 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Mindful Self-Compassion 9-Session Class Outdoors Near Warren Wilson
Sep 24 all-day
Charles D. Owen Park

MSC is an empirically-supported 9-session program that helps participants develop and deepen the skills of self-compassion. Activities include meditation, talks, discussion, and experiential exercises. This class will be held rain or shine outdoors in a beautiful setting over nine Saturdays, 9/17-11/19, skipping 10/15.

We will meet from 10:30AM-2PM with a 30-minute break for lunch midway through each session. Each class participant will receive a copy of The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook.

Register at mindfulselfcompassionasheville.com by 8/30 for early-bird pricing.

DuPont Forest Festival
Sep 24 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Guion Farms Paring Area of DuPont State Forest

Forest Festival Sept. 24, 2022

In celebration and honor of National Public Lands Day, Come to the 5th annual DuPont
Forest Festival, a family friendly event that includes yoga, group bike rides, group hikes, a group trail run, face painting, nature
walks, “meet the horses,” fly fishing demo, clinics and classes, kids rides, history tours, food trucks and more, Free, Hosted by the
Friends of DuPont Forest, Guion Farms Paring Area of DuPont State Forest, Hendersonville, DupontForest.com/9999-2

2022 Schedule

8:30am

  • Group Trail Run with iDaph Events (all abilities welcome)

10am

  • Thomas Cemetery History Tour with Patty Stahl
  • Women’s Beginner Ride with Niki Celani, Cognative MTB Ambassador
  • Women’s Intermediate Ride with Amanda Robertson, Cognative MTB Ambassador
  • Orienteering with Al Beers
  • Demo and Hike with Trekking Poles with Johnny Kelly

10:30am

  • Kids Yoga with YAM
  • Kids Bike Clinic and Ride with Blue Wall Adventures
  • Walk on the Wild Side Hike with Conserving Carolina

11am

  • Hike with Greenville Hiking Club
  • Fly Fishing Demo with Headwaters Outfitters
  • Community Yoga with YAM (11:15am)
  • Family Nature Walk with Ripple Forest School

11:30am

  • Co-ed Intermediate Group Ride with Jody Treadway
  • Avenza Map Demo and Hike
  • Smokey Bear!

12pm

  • Fly Fishing Demo with Headwaters Outfitters

1pm

  • Orienteering with Al Beers
  • Hike and Demo with Tracking Poles with Johnny Kelly
  • Kids Bike Clinic and Ride with Blue Wall Adventures
  • Fly Fishing Demo with Headwaters Outfitters

1:30pm

  • Family Nature Walk with Ripple Forest School
  • Hike with Greenville Hiking Club
  • Avenza Map Demo and Hike

2:00pm

  • Fly Fishing Demo with Headwaters Outfitters
  • Smokey Bear!
Haywood Road Cleanup
Sep 24 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
New Belgium Brewing

Join Asheville GreenWorks, the West Asheville Business Association, Wrong Way Campground, and OnHaywood for a cleanup of the Haywood Road corridor in West Asheville. Breakfast will be provided to volunteers by Biscuit Head and Sunny Point Cafe. Post clean up rewards provided by The Hop Ice Cream and New Belgium.

What is a Haywood Road Clean Up Day? A day where volunteers work to pick up trash and recycling along the Haywood Road corridor.

How do you participate? 1-RSVP by “joining” this project 2-Meet and sign in at New Belgium Brewing, 10am 3-Grab some breakfast, receive instructions and gear, and head out as a group to pick up of trash along Haywood Road and side streets 4-Return gear to New Belgium and enjoy volunteer rewards!

Is this a family-friendly event? Yes, although please consider that Haywood Road is a busy street and it is important that you and your children stay alert and safe throughout the clean up.

Should you bring anything? Asheville GreenWorks will supply gloves, safety vests, trash grabbers, and trash bags for everyone. Please bring water and any personal items that you need.

Need to know

Dress in comfortable walking shoes and clothes. Meet at New Belgium Brewing, 21 Craven Street, at 10am. After signing in, volunteers will receive a free breakfast and their cleanup gear. We’ll go over safety and instructions before heading out to cover the Haywood Road corridor. Return your gear to New Belgium and enjoy volunteer rewards!

National Park Fee Free Days: National Public Lands Day
Sep 24 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

Come experience the national parks! On five days in 2022, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2022. Please check operating status at this park and others before traveling as there may be changes due to Covid-19.

Established in 1994 and held annually on the fourth Saturday in September, National Public Lands Day is traditionally the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort. It celebrates the connection between people and green space in their community, inspires environmental stewardship, and encourages use of open space for education, recreation, and health benefits.

About National Public Lands Day

National Public Lands Day is organized annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation, in cooperation with Department of the Interior, Department of the Army, and Department of Agriculture. The National Park Service is one of the event’s largest providers of sites and volunteers. Other participating federal agencies include the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, US Forest Service, and US Army Corps of Engineers.

Illustration of a ranger created with park-related images with text reading "National Public Lands Day National Park Service"

Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in National Public Lands Day. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to #RecreateResponsibly!

Verner Experiential Garden Helpers
Sep 24 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Verner Center for Early Learning

Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to children birth to five years of age throughout Buncombe County. The mission of Verner Center is to foster holistic learning environments where young children and families thrive. The organization embraces a philosophy that includes excellence in early childhood practices, diversity among children and families, and partnerships and collaboration with families and communities. This philosophy is demonstrated through provision of high quality education, family services, health and nutrition services, and professional development for teachers.

We are currently looking for compassionate volunteers to support our experiential garden.

Volunteer Opportunity Includes:

  • Pulling weeds
  • Cleaning out garden beds
  • Prepping new garden beds
  • Building small projects
  • Mowing
  • Weed eating
  • Laying mulch
  • Watering

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Respond to the shift
  • Comfortable working in various weather conditions
  • Comfortable bending, stooping, twisting
  • Ability to stand for 1-2 hours at a time
The Fletcher Family Festival
Sep 24 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Bill Moore Community Park

There will be 18 vendors selling crafts, jewelry, and food on field #5 beginning at 5pm. The
children’s Fun Zone will be held on field #2 with face painting, inflatables and Mills River
Dental activity tent. A Food truck alley will feature 5 different food vendors selling food from
5pm-8pm. The evening concert will begin at 6pm featuring the Irish bluegrass band, JIG JAM.
They are one of the top international blue grass groups in the world, and currently on tour in the
United States this fall.
The Title sponsor for the Festival this year is ADVENT HEALTH, the entertainment sponsor is
RINEHART RACING. MILLS RIVER DENTAL is the sponsor for the children’s Fun Zone,
5pm -7pm. No pets will be allowed in the Festival area.
This is a free community family event presented by the Fletcher Parks & Recreation Department
& the Town of Fletcher.

Sunday, September 25, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 25 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Monday, September 26, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 26 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

YWCA Aquatics Volunteer
Sep 26 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
YWCA Asheville

YWCA of Asheville is a nonprofit organization working to bridge gaps in education, health, childcare, and earning power for women and families in the Asheville region. The mission of the YWCA of Asheville is to eliminate racism; empower women; and promote peace,  justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The YWCA indoor pool hosts a comprehensive Aquatics Program with activities for all ages, abilities, and interests.

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities 

  • Join the fun in the pool as a swim assistant. Help children and adults learn the basics of floating, kicking, breathing, and diving.
  • Support the Aquatics Program with behind-the-scenes administrative work or on-the-deck supervising

Time Commitment

  • Flexible time commitment

Volunteer Requirements

  • Background check
Volunteer: Kid’s Programming Support with Bounty + Soul
Sep 26 @ 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Old Bi-Lo Parking Lot

Before you even begin thinking about volunteering, ask yourself – Am I well enough to volunteer?

Your safety and limiting the spread of COVID-19 is everyone’s main priority. We encourage you to review and adhere to the recommendations on the Buncombe County readiness site on how best to avoid COVID-19 and what to do if you think you might have it.


Bounty & Soul is a community-based non-profit with a mission to connect people to food, education and each other. 

Like to get creative and crafty? Enjoy preparing fun educational games for children? We invite you to be a part of this small, sweet, and  intentional shift that directly supports our Kids Programming. We are looking to have 1-2 folks join us Mondays from 1:30-3:30pm at the Bounty & Soul office. We’re talking bubbles, meditation pin wheels, produce fortune tellers, mini-cook books, exercise games and more!

Requirements

  • Must agree to adhere to all safety measures implemented at the site
  • A positive attitude to bring to the group
  • A passion for sharing information on children’s health and wellbeing
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills

Health/Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face covering when delivering items
    • Cloth covering nose and mouth
    • Fabric or disposable face mask
  • Asking volunteers to maintain physical distance of 6 feet or more when possible
    • Note: there are times when the volunteer task requires volunteers to engage closer than 6 feet. Please do not sign up if you feel uncomfortable.
Tuesday, September 27, 2022
Explore, connect, and discover with Asheville Parks + Recreation this fall
Sep 27 all-day
various locations in Asheville
photo collage of young people sitting on a wall, young girl holding fish, dog in pumpkin costume

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), like the community it serves, is constantly changing and evolving. In alignment with Asheville City Council’s 2036 Vision and current strategic priorities, the department is focused on Improving Core Core Services, Neighborhood Resilience, and Improving Public Safety. APR’s fall program guide reflects the department’s direction with a strong concentration on neighborhood-level, community-focused recreation experiences with listings for fitness and active living opportunities, sports and clubs, arts and culture programs, outdoor recreation, parks and facilities’ hours of operation, and more.

graphic in yellows and blues of mountain and sun that says explore connect discoverThe free guide is available at all City community centers and online as a PDF or enhanced digital flipbook. Community members may also download the APR app for iPhone or search programs on avlREC.com.

 

Help Seniors Fill Out Applications for Benefits
Sep 27 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County
  • The Council on Aging of Buncombe County was formed in 1964 to address the needs of seniors in our community
  • We provide essential support to people over 60 who need assistance with food, heat or a/c, and health care
  • Our volunteers make this work possible– consider joining us today!

Our Mission Statement: Promote the Independence, dignity, and well-being of adults through service, education, and advocacy

We are looking for volunteers to work with low-income Medicare recipients as an unbiased, knowledgeable guide, providing education and assistance with navigating through the application process to help them receive much-needed assistance with the following programs:

  • Medicare Part D Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)
  • Medicare Savings Programs
  • Medicaid
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly known as Food Stamps)
  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)

The safety of our clients is our highest priority. Here’s what’s required for this role:

  • Clear criminal background check and driving record.
  • Minimum $100,000/300,000 in auto liability coverage.
  • Orientation and training with the Council on Aging.
  • A reliable vehicle that will pass NC safety inspection.

Additionally, we are very flexible and will work with your schedule.

Who would make a strong candidate for this volunteer role?

  • You care about seniors and want to support those who need help most
  • A resident of Buncombe County, NC, or a nearby town.
  • Someone willing to learn basic education about the Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC) and what benefits are available for lower-income Seniors.
  • Someone willing to receive education about outreach, what larger events entail, and how to assist with these events.
  • Someone willing to travel around Buncombe County and set up a table at outreach events, educating the community on the services offered at Council on Aging and the Benefits Enrollment Center.
  • Someone able to assist clients with benefits applications and maintain awareness of changes to income guidelines.

If you want to help make a difference in the lives of real people right here in western North Carolina, we would love to welcome you on board as a volunteer.

Verner Experiential Garden Helpers
Sep 27 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Verner Center for Early Learning

Verner Center for Early Learning is a nonprofit agency providing high quality, affordable early care and education to children birth to five years of age throughout Buncombe County. The mission of Verner Center is to foster holistic learning environments where young children and families thrive. The organization embraces a philosophy that includes excellence in early childhood practices, diversity among children and families, and partnerships and collaboration with families and communities. This philosophy is demonstrated through provision of high quality education, family services, health and nutrition services, and professional development for teachers.

We are currently looking for compassionate volunteers to support our experiential garden.

Volunteer Opportunity Includes:

  • Pulling weeds
  • Cleaning out garden beds
  • Prepping new garden beds
  • Building small projects
  • Mowing
  • Weed eating
  • Laying mulch
  • Watering

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Respond to the shift
  • Comfortable working in various weather conditions
  • Comfortable bending, stooping, twisting
  • Ability to stand for 1-2 hours at a time
Elementary After-School Volunteer Creative Peacemakers
Sep 27 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Deaverview Apartment Community

We are seeking volunteers to assist us in our small after school program for children in West Asheville in low-income housing.  We provide a safe and nourishing environment, healthy snacks, and creative activities.  Our program currently meets during the school year on most Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:00-5:00pm. You may volunteer for one or two days a week. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Assist with serving snacks
  • Interact with children during activity time
  • Supervise games and outdoor free time
  • For people with background in education, there is also an opportunity to assist with curriculum development and program planning and administration

Requirements:

  • Background check
  • Orientation booklets will be provided
  • Masks are required if unvaccinated