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.

Sunday, February 13, 2022
Russ Wilson and his Famous Orchestra present Music For Lovers Only!
Feb 13 @ 7:30 pm
Isis Music Hall

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In the “old days” people used to dress up and go out to some place that had great music, great cocktails and great food. It was not just another night out. It was an EVENT! A time to put on your finest threads and spend an evening with the one you love (or meet the one you love!) in some classy joint. You dined and enjoyed the music. It was a night of style, class and (most importantly) romance!

Russ Wilson And His Famous Orchestra present A Vintage Valentine. An Evening of Style, Class and Romance.
Russ and his All Star Orchestra will play the beautiful love songs of 20’s, 30’s & 40’s.

Come enjoy an evening of live music, food and drinks at the Isis Music Hall. Reservations are highly recommended.

Reserved Seat Tickets are available with Dinner reservations – You must call the venue at 828-575-2737 to make dinner reservations and secure those tickets.

General Admission Tickets are available for the main stage balcony only. Seating in the balcony is first come, first serve. Dinner service is NOT currently being offered for general admission tickets.; drink service is available at the downstairs bar on the main floor.

Currently, Only General Admission Tickets are available on line

You must call the venue at 828-575-2737 for Reserve Seat Tickets and to make dinner reservations.

Monday, February 14, 2022
Adopt a Cute Critter
Feb 14 all-day
online

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Looking for an unusual Valentine gift for the foxy animal lover in your life? You still have time to adopt a river otter, red panda, red fox or skunk for that special someone on Valentine’s Day! Now through February 15, your $50 or $100 adoption of one of these four animals comes with some French Broad Chocolate and supports our beloved WNC Nature Center.

Asheville: We need your help! at the future Karen Cragnolin Park
Feb 14 all-day
future Karen Cragnolin Park

We’re looking for a team of dedicated volunteers to commit to monthly service days at the site of the future Karen Cragnolin Park. Volunteers will work outside at a safe social distance to remove invasive species. We will be working in groups of 15 or less and wearing masks to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

If you are interested in helping please fill out this survey (link below) so we can determine the best day and time to offer this monthly day of service.

Karen Cragnolin Park Update: We are delighted to report that the remediation of Karen Cragnolin Park (KCP) – named in honor of our visionary founder – is complete, and that we are initiating the first phase of the project by constructing the park’s greenway and an accompanying landscaped corridor. This will activate and connect the park (to the two adjacent greenways) and continue the journey of bringing the park fully online. Our goal with this phase is to create a beautiful aesthetic corridor with carefully selected plantings and design elements accompanied by educational, cultural and historical signage for people to experience as they move through the park. This phase is projected to cost approximately $1 million and will be achieved through individual donors and institutional and grant funding. Construction will begin when funding commitments are secured. To learn more about supporting our efforts please contact me at [email protected].

KC Park Greenway
Current plans for phase one with the installation of the new greenway.

As background, the 5.3 acre site was formerly home to the EDACO junkyard for over 50 years. Located adjacent to the French Broad River and bounded by Amboy Road, the car crushing operation contaminated the land and water with oil, gas, grease and antifreeze. RiverLink worked with experts to implement an extensive soil remediation process to restore the land.

Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architecture’s vision for KCP is bold and transformative. Upon full completion, KCP will serve as one of the missing links in the larger open space and greenway system, connecting Carrier Park to French Broad River Park. KCP will offer a contemplative and rejuvenating space that honors the natural and cultural history of the site while providing access to the water’s edge. The park will also stabilize riparian edges, collect and slow stormwater, and promote a wide range of habitats. The completed project will embrace the concept of a “living laboratory” – an outdoor classroom that makes the dynamic riparian and ecological processes visible. An educational, stimulating, and enjoyable park experience will cultivate a community invested in the long-term stewardship of the river and the park system for generations to come. Please see our website for the Master Plan and complete vision.

Black Legacy Month at the Library
Feb 14 all-day
Buncombe County Libraries

In February, we honor and recognize Black Legacy Month at Buncombe County Public Libraries. We will be celebrating throughout February through several online events, staff-curated booklists, and a collection of online resources and exhibits.

Virtual book clubs will discuss On Girlhood by Glory Edim and The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. You can register for either book club on the library calendar.

When you visit your library, look for special Black Legacy Month displays and book selections.

Below, you will find our Librarians’ reading list highlighting Black authors that include selections for all ages.

We look forward to seeing you at the library!

Black Legacy Month Reading List

Books for Families to Share

My Heart Flies Open by Omileye Achikeobi-Lewis

The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander

The Electric Slide and Kai by Kelly J. Baptist

Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham

This Is Your Time by Ruby Bridges

Legacy: Women Poets of the Harlem Renaissance by Nikki Grimes

Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Hubbard

Recognize! An Anthology Honoring and Amplifying Black Life Edited by Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson

Going Down Home with Daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons

My Hair Is Magic by M.L. Marroquin

M is for Melanin by Tiffany Rose

Exquisite: the Life of Gwendolyn Brooks by Suzanne Buckingham Slade

Nina: a Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd

Dream Street by Tricia Elam Walker

Chapter Books For Older Kids

Isaiah Dunn is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist

Blended by Sharon Draper

The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi

New Kid by Jerry Craft

From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks

Black Boy Joy: 17 Stories Celebrating Black Boyhood edited by Kwame Mbalia

Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Books for Teens

The Skin I’m In by Sharon G. Flake

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

March by John Lewis and Andrew Ayden

Revolution in Our Time: the Black Panther’s Promise to the People by Kekla Magoon

Loving vs. Virginia by Patricia Powell

Dear Martin by Nic Stone

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi

Books for Adults

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet

The Yellow House by Sarah Broom

I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown

You Are Your Best Thing edited by Tarana Burke

Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Soul City: Race, Equality, and the Lost Dream of an American Utopia by Thomas Healy

All About Love by bell hooks

Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women that Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall

400 Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019 edited by Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain

The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Disha Philyaw

How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America by Clint Smith

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

Go On A Blind Date With a Book at the Library This February
Feb 14 all-day
Buncombe County Libraries

Buncombe County Public Libraries is playing matchmaker in February as Blind Date with a Book returns. The blind date books are easy to spot; they’ll be the ones with the paper-wrapped book covers. Check one out and take it home. Remember, don’t judge a book by its cover, and you might fall in love with a new author, genre, or series you hadn’t tried before.

The Fairview, Swannanoa, Pack, Black Mountain, Leicester, and North Asheville Libraries will be happy to set you up on your blind date anytime in February.

Shades of Rosé Gin Cocktail Kit: Dozen Roses
Feb 14 all-day
online w/ Cultivated Cocktails
Red Cross Buncombe County – Blood Drive Volunteer
Feb 14 @ 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
The American Red Cross

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.


The American Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that helps communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. Activities of the American Red Cross Western North Carolina Chapter include: Blood Services, Training Services, Disaster Services, and Home Fire Campaign.

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and one blood donation can save up to three lives. Help support lives in North Carolina by signing up to become a Blood Drive Volunteer today.  

Time Commitment:

Blood drives occur M-F and volunteers are expected to attend one blood drive a month to remain an active volunteer. This position is flexible as volunteers can sign up for shifts that work for their schedule and instructions for shift selection will be sent after responding to the opportunity.

Volunteer Roles:

  • Warmly greet donors and assist with registration in reception area.
  • Assist with initial intake and hand off through blood donation process.
    • Ensure donors have relevant information and all questions are answered appropriately.
    • Maintain proper sanitizing and cleanliness of reception and hospitality areas.
  • Attend canteen area in support of donors.
    • Thank donors for their contribution.
    • Alert staff immediately if a donor shows signs of feeling unwell.
  • Inform donors of current and upcoming donation promotions.
    • Make reminder/cancellation calls.
    • Reschedule donor appointments.
    • Perform follow-up activities as directed.

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Modeling excellent customer service behaviors.
  • Knowledge of technology needed for position (training provided)
    • Donor checkin, donor tablet, rapid pass, donor app.
  • Comfortable working with people from diverse communities and backgrounds
  • Dependable, punctual, and professional
  • Adhere to all Red Cross guidelines
  • Ability to remain calm in crisis situations
  • Adhere to CDC safety guidelines regarding COVID-19 precautions
  • Safety First! Our need for volunteers is constant and our guidelines reflect the latest CDC safety recommendations and follow the national and local government laws. COVID-19 vaccination will be required for in-person volunteer roles beginning January 3, 2022.
Support Veterans Going to College – A-B Tech’s Vet’s Cafe
Feb 14 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
AB Tech

 Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech) is a comprehensive two-year college and one of 58 colleges in the North Carolina Community College System, serving students in five locations in Buncombe and Madison Counties.  A-B Tech, through its dedication to student success, strives toward its mission to deliver quality education to enhance academic, workforce, and personal development. A-B Tech envisions changing lives and strengthening communities. 

We are seeking volunteers to help support our Veteran’s Cafe. A-B Tech recognizes that student military veterans benefit significantly from fellowship and networking with their peers. To meet this need, the College created the Vet’s Cafe, a supportive gathering place where students can relax, network, connect with resources, use a computer and enjoy complimentary coffee or pre-packaged snack. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Hosts, ensuring the Cafe is welcoming and supportive.
  • Setting out snacks and coffee
  • Helping students with computers, and tutoring/mentoring as appropriate
  • Volunteers also act as a conduit between students and the A-B Tech Veterans Advisor to ensure students get all the support they need to succeed.

Time Commitment:

  • 3 hours per shift (8am-11am, 11am-2pm, 2pm-5pm 8am-5pm)
  • 1 volunteer per shift, couples are welcome to volunteer together.

 

Qualifications:

  • Must have patience and understanding while volunteering at the Cafe
  • Military experience is preferred but not required
  • Must be computer literate

Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years old
  • Complete volunteer application with A-B Tech
  • Complete FERPA & HIPAA forms
  • Submit to a criminal background screening
  • Attend an in-person interview and orientation with A-B Tech Campus Volunteer Coordinator

Health & Safety:

  • A-B Tech is following all CDC guidelines for higher educational institutions
Build A Kit for Students
Feb 14 @ 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
online

Before you 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.


UWABC is committed to collaborating with donors, volunteers, community partners, and those most affected by inequity and poverty to co-create a community where all share equal access to the resources necessary to attain the education, financial stability, and health needed to thrive.

Currently, UWABC is seeking individuals, teams, and corporate partners to support students engaged in learning pods and satellite learning centers by Building Kits that provide resources such as items to support resiliency, personal care packs, school supplies, and more. 

Volunteers will be responsible for purchasing agreed-upon supplies, assembling and delivering the supplies directly to the learning site. Build a Kit items/supplies will be shared with volunteers after responding to the opportunity. 

Build A Kit Options:

  • Art Kits
  • Personal Care Kits
  • Resiliency Kits
  • School Supply Kits
  • Snack Packs

I’m interested, How do I participate?

  • Respond to this opportunity as an individual or as a team.
  • After you respond, a UWABC staff will reach out to share the pre-approved Build A Kit list and timeframe.
  • Think about your price point.
    • How much can you or your team realistically spend?
    • There is no minimum or maximum of kits needed at this time as these items are always needed and welcome.
  • Determine kit options and begin the process of ordering and assembling kits based on the pre-selected and approved lists.
    • Volunteers are asked to only purchase the pre-approved items to ensure each student receives the same items.
  • Coordinate with UWABC staff around delivery location(s) and point person on-site.
  • Deliver kits to a specified location(s).
  • Track all volunteer hours of participating individuals in Hands On.

Health and Safety:

  • This is a remote opportunity and larger groups are responsible for the health and safety of their team members’ participation.
  • Any time groups are together, UWABC encourages volunteers to follow CDC guidelines of:
    • Practicing social distancing of 6 feet apart;
    • Practicing hand hygiene often and wearing gloves when appropriate;
    • Wearing a mask when around other volunteers.
  • We ask volunteers to wear masks when delivering items.
Spread a Little Love with the Dog Therapy Program – A-B Tech
Feb 14 @ 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
A-B Tech Community College

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.


 Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech) is a comprehensive two-year college and one of 58 colleges in the North Carolina Community College System, serving students in five locations in Buncombe and Madison Counties.  A-B Tech, through its dedication to student success, strives toward its mission to deliver quality education to enhance academic, workforce, and personal development. A-B Tech envisions changing lives and strengthening communities. 

We are currently seeking registered Therapy Dog Teams to have regular routes on campus, visiting public areas, classrooms and staff offices. Our A-B Tech Therapy Dog program aims to spread compassion, empathy, and, most importantly, “pawsitivity” across our campus.  A-B Tech Community College recognizes the positive influence that therapy dogs can have on student and staff.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Therapy dog teams (owner and dog) will visit public areas on campus, classrooms, and staff offices
  • Therapy dog teams will also assist with special requests such as visiting classrooms before exams, counseling sessions or special events on campus.

Time Commitment:

  • 1 hour once a week
  • Therapy Dog teams are scheduled to ensure they are not in the same building or area at the same time as other teams.

Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years old
  • Complete volunteer application with A-B Tech
  • Complete FERPA & HIPAA forms
  • Submit to a criminal background screening
  • Attend an in-person interview and orientation with A-B Tech Campus Volunteer Coordinator
  • Provide copies of Therapy Dog Certification (Dog Teams must be certified by an accredited Therapy Dog Agency before starting).

*As of 2021, the Volunteer Program accepts Therapy Dog certification from the following agencies, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Therapy Dogs International, Pet Partners (previously Delta Society).

Health & Safety:

  • A-B Tech is following all CDC guidelines for higher educational institutions
Valentine’s at The Grove Arcade
Feb 14 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Grove Arcade

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Spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one at the Grove ArcadeFlora Diva will be selling handpicked flowers and arrangements all day! Marc Keller will be playing a variety of guitar instrumentals and vocal music all day. They will also have their very own Catalina Rose doing hand-written couple’s poetry for free. This is a multi-day event taking place Feb 12-14th so take your Valentine to one of the most architecturally romantic places in town. No cover.

Cook and Serve Meals – ABCCM Transformation Village
Feb 14 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Transformation Village

Cook teams of 4-6 individuals are invited to bring ingredients and prepare meals onsite or bring meals that have been prepared elsewhere.  To meet our dietary standards, we ask that each meal provides a meat, vegetable and starch.

Requirements:

  • Background Check
  • Brief orientation prior to service
  • Ability to Multi-Task
  • Friendly Demeanor

Health & Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face mask if you have not been fully vaccinated
  • Temperatures will be checked and a COVID-19 disclosure will be signed at the volunteer entrance
  • 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.


    ABCCM Transformation Village provides up to 100 beds of transitional housing and will provide emergency shelter beds, post Covid-19.  Transforming lives is through four developmental phases called Steps to Success including stabilization, life skills, education and reintegration.  We are honored to report that 8 out of 10 leave us with a living wage job and permanent housing.

    Transformation Village gives hope, healing, health and a home to single women, mothers with children, and female Veterans experiencing homelessness.  We provide residents a fresh start and a place to heal surrounded and supported by Christian love, trust, education and companionship.

    We are seeking energetic volunteers to prepare and serve meals for our residents for lunch and dinner. This opportunity provides you with the chance to prepare meals in our commercial kitchen alongside our trained staff while serving the women and children of Transformation Village. 

Volunteer: Kid’s Programming Support with Bounty + Soul
Feb 14 @ 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.
Youth Literacy Tutors Needed!
Feb 14 @ 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Asheville

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.


Literacy Together (formerly the Literacy Council of Buncombe County) is a nonprofit organization working with children, youth, and adults to increase comprehensive literacy and English language skills through access to literacy resources and specialized instruction by trained volunteer tutors. Literacy Together relies on volunteer tutors to offer students personal instruction and high-quality materials through various programs.

The Youth Literacy Program is seeking tutors to meet with students K-5 twice a week for 50 minutes, between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm. The Youth Literacy Program works with two after-school programs that primarily serve youth of color.  The two locations are in Asheville.

Youth Literacy tutors work with children from low-income families who read, write, and/or spell below their grade level. Tutors in this program complete an initial orientation and a 16-20 hours training, which includes some pre-course work and/or homework (short articles to read, short videos to watch). They then receive follow-up support and the option to attend in-service training throughout their tutoring commitment. Youth Literacy tutors commit to working with their students for at least one school year.

Time Commitment:

  • Twice a week for 50-minute sessions between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm.
  • Youth Literacy tutors commit to working with their students for at least one school year.

Requirements: 

  • GED or High School diploma
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to work patiently with various levels of literacy skills
  • Access to reliable internet
  • Ability to navigate virtual meetings with minimal distractions
  • Complete a background check

Training:

  • Tutors must complete 16-20 hours of training prior to being assigned a student
Cook and Serve Meals – ABCCM Transformation Village
Feb 14 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Transformation Village

Cook teams of 4-6 individuals are invited to bring ingredients and prepare meals onsite or bring meals that have been prepared elsewhere.  To meet our dietary standards, we ask that each meal provides a meat, vegetable and starch.

Requirements:

  • Background Check
  • Brief orientation prior to service
  • Ability to Multi-Task
  • Friendly Demeanor

Health & Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face mask if you have not been fully vaccinated
  • Temperatures will be checked and a COVID-19 disclosure will be signed at the volunteer entrance
  • 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.


    ABCCM Transformation Village provides up to 100 beds of transitional housing and will provide emergency shelter beds, post Covid-19.  Transforming lives is through four developmental phases called Steps to Success including stabilization, life skills, education and reintegration.  We are honored to report that 8 out of 10 leave us with a living wage job and permanent housing.

    Transformation Village gives hope, healing, health and a home to single women, mothers with children, and female Veterans experiencing homelessness.  We provide residents a fresh start and a place to heal surrounded and supported by Christian love, trust, education and companionship.

    We are seeking energetic volunteers to prepare and serve meals for our residents for lunch and dinner. This opportunity provides you with the chance to prepare meals in our commercial kitchen alongside our trained staff while serving the women and children of Transformation Village. 

Valentine Dessert Art at Posana
Feb 14 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Posana

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pecial V-day dessert alert: Our friends at Posana have outdone themselves with this Lavender Honey Cake with pomegranate mousse, orange curd, chocolate almond meringue kisses, Earl Grey honey gel, and fresh pomegranate arils.

Mystery Book Club
Feb 14 @ 7:00 pm
online

The club will meet virtually during the Covid-19 pandemic. If you are interested in attending, please email [email protected] for instructions about how to attend the club event.  

Join host Tena Frank for Malaprop’s Mystery Book Club! Click here to see a full schedule of what the club is reading. Club attendees get 10% off the book at Malaprop’s!

The club meets at Malaprop’s on the second Monday of every month at 7:00 pm.

Event date:
Monday, January 10, 2022 – 7:00pm
Monday, February 14, 2022 – 7:00pm
Monday, March 14, 2022 – 7:00pm
Monday, April 11, 2022 – 7:00pm
Valentine’s Day Weekend Comedy Show
Feb 14 @ 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Legends Club at TIEC

Valentine's Day Weekend at Tryon Resort

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Weekend at Tryon Resort and treat yourself (and your significant other!) to a full roster of can’t-miss events. Join us Friday, February 11 for Comedy Night presented by Comedy Zone, one of TWO shows you can catch while celebrating Valentine’s Day Weekend with us.

Comedian Bios:

Johnny Millwater: 

Johnny Millwater has devoted his life to making people laugh. Johnny’s extraordinary use of language, rapid-fire delivery and old-school showmanship make his shows fun, hilarious and unforgettable!

Jason Allen King:

Jason Allen King is a comedian, writer, actor, filmmaker, and bird watcher from Charlotte, NC. Exploiting his own peculiar personal experiences, family, and relationships (or lack thereof), King’s comedy offers a unique perspective on familiar situations. A northerner who’s been living in the south too long, he has endeared himself to audiences across the country pushing boundaries through a positive and sharp spin on observations and self-deprecation.

Fresh off the taping of his Dry Comedy Special and a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, King is back touring the country. He has opened for renowned comedians like Preacher Lawson, Fortune Feimster, Rob Schneider, Christopher Titus, Colin Quinn, and Dave Attell. He was voted Charlotte’s Favorite Comedian by Elevate Lifestyle Magazine, featured in It’s A Southern Thing’s One of 15 Southern Comics to Watch and Best of the Fest at the Burbank Comedy Festival. King is the host of The Comedy Zone Podcast. He also writes and stars in the popular video series “George & Monty,” which was invited to screen at the L.A. Comedy Shorts Festival.

Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Adopt a Cute Critter
Feb 15 all-day
online

Screen Shot 2022-02-08 at 2.56.49 PM.png

Looking for an unusual Valentine gift for the foxy animal lover in your life? You still have time to adopt a river otter, red panda, red fox or skunk for that special someone on Valentine’s Day! Now through February 15, your $50 or $100 adoption of one of these four animals comes with some French Broad Chocolate and supports our beloved WNC Nature Center.

Asheville: We need your help! at the future Karen Cragnolin Park
Feb 15 all-day
future Karen Cragnolin Park

We’re looking for a team of dedicated volunteers to commit to monthly service days at the site of the future Karen Cragnolin Park. Volunteers will work outside at a safe social distance to remove invasive species. We will be working in groups of 15 or less and wearing masks to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

If you are interested in helping please fill out this survey (link below) so we can determine the best day and time to offer this monthly day of service.

Karen Cragnolin Park Update: We are delighted to report that the remediation of Karen Cragnolin Park (KCP) – named in honor of our visionary founder – is complete, and that we are initiating the first phase of the project by constructing the park’s greenway and an accompanying landscaped corridor. This will activate and connect the park (to the two adjacent greenways) and continue the journey of bringing the park fully online. Our goal with this phase is to create a beautiful aesthetic corridor with carefully selected plantings and design elements accompanied by educational, cultural and historical signage for people to experience as they move through the park. This phase is projected to cost approximately $1 million and will be achieved through individual donors and institutional and grant funding. Construction will begin when funding commitments are secured. To learn more about supporting our efforts please contact me at [email protected].

KC Park Greenway
Current plans for phase one with the installation of the new greenway.

As background, the 5.3 acre site was formerly home to the EDACO junkyard for over 50 years. Located adjacent to the French Broad River and bounded by Amboy Road, the car crushing operation contaminated the land and water with oil, gas, grease and antifreeze. RiverLink worked with experts to implement an extensive soil remediation process to restore the land.

Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architecture’s vision for KCP is bold and transformative. Upon full completion, KCP will serve as one of the missing links in the larger open space and greenway system, connecting Carrier Park to French Broad River Park. KCP will offer a contemplative and rejuvenating space that honors the natural and cultural history of the site while providing access to the water’s edge. The park will also stabilize riparian edges, collect and slow stormwater, and promote a wide range of habitats. The completed project will embrace the concept of a “living laboratory” – an outdoor classroom that makes the dynamic riparian and ecological processes visible. An educational, stimulating, and enjoyable park experience will cultivate a community invested in the long-term stewardship of the river and the park system for generations to come. Please see our website for the Master Plan and complete vision.

Black Legacy Month at the Library
Feb 15 all-day
Buncombe County Libraries

In February, we honor and recognize Black Legacy Month at Buncombe County Public Libraries. We will be celebrating throughout February through several online events, staff-curated booklists, and a collection of online resources and exhibits.

Virtual book clubs will discuss On Girlhood by Glory Edim and The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. You can register for either book club on the library calendar.

When you visit your library, look for special Black Legacy Month displays and book selections.

Below, you will find our Librarians’ reading list highlighting Black authors that include selections for all ages.

We look forward to seeing you at the library!

Black Legacy Month Reading List

Books for Families to Share

My Heart Flies Open by Omileye Achikeobi-Lewis

The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander

The Electric Slide and Kai by Kelly J. Baptist

Soul Food Sunday by Winsome Bingham

This Is Your Time by Ruby Bridges

Legacy: Women Poets of the Harlem Renaissance by Nikki Grimes

Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Hubbard

Recognize! An Anthology Honoring and Amplifying Black Life Edited by Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson

Going Down Home with Daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons

My Hair Is Magic by M.L. Marroquin

M is for Melanin by Tiffany Rose

Exquisite: the Life of Gwendolyn Brooks by Suzanne Buckingham Slade

Nina: a Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd

Dream Street by Tricia Elam Walker

Chapter Books For Older Kids

Isaiah Dunn is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist

Blended by Sharon Draper

The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi

New Kid by Jerry Craft

From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks

Black Boy Joy: 17 Stories Celebrating Black Boyhood edited by Kwame Mbalia

Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Books for Teens

The Skin I’m In by Sharon G. Flake

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

March by John Lewis and Andrew Ayden

Revolution in Our Time: the Black Panther’s Promise to the People by Kekla Magoon

Loving vs. Virginia by Patricia Powell

Dear Martin by Nic Stone

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi

Books for Adults

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet

The Yellow House by Sarah Broom

I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown

You Are Your Best Thing edited by Tarana Burke

Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Soul City: Race, Equality, and the Lost Dream of an American Utopia by Thomas Healy

All About Love by bell hooks

Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women that Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall

400 Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019 edited by Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain

The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Disha Philyaw

How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America by Clint Smith

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

Go On A Blind Date With a Book at the Library This February
Feb 15 all-day
Buncombe County Libraries

Buncombe County Public Libraries is playing matchmaker in February as Blind Date with a Book returns. The blind date books are easy to spot; they’ll be the ones with the paper-wrapped book covers. Check one out and take it home. Remember, don’t judge a book by its cover, and you might fall in love with a new author, genre, or series you hadn’t tried before.

The Fairview, Swannanoa, Pack, Black Mountain, Leicester, and North Asheville Libraries will be happy to set you up on your blind date anytime in February.

Red Cross Buncombe County – Blood Drive Volunteer
Feb 15 @ 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
The American Red Cross

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.


The American Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that helps communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. Activities of the American Red Cross Western North Carolina Chapter include: Blood Services, Training Services, Disaster Services, and Home Fire Campaign.

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and one blood donation can save up to three lives. Help support lives in North Carolina by signing up to become a Blood Drive Volunteer today.  

Time Commitment:

Blood drives occur M-F and volunteers are expected to attend one blood drive a month to remain an active volunteer. This position is flexible as volunteers can sign up for shifts that work for their schedule and instructions for shift selection will be sent after responding to the opportunity.

Volunteer Roles:

  • Warmly greet donors and assist with registration in reception area.
  • Assist with initial intake and hand off through blood donation process.
    • Ensure donors have relevant information and all questions are answered appropriately.
    • Maintain proper sanitizing and cleanliness of reception and hospitality areas.
  • Attend canteen area in support of donors.
    • Thank donors for their contribution.
    • Alert staff immediately if a donor shows signs of feeling unwell.
  • Inform donors of current and upcoming donation promotions.
    • Make reminder/cancellation calls.
    • Reschedule donor appointments.
    • Perform follow-up activities as directed.

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Modeling excellent customer service behaviors.
  • Knowledge of technology needed for position (training provided)
    • Donor checkin, donor tablet, rapid pass, donor app.
  • Comfortable working with people from diverse communities and backgrounds
  • Dependable, punctual, and professional
  • Adhere to all Red Cross guidelines
  • Ability to remain calm in crisis situations
  • Adhere to CDC safety guidelines regarding COVID-19 precautions
  • Safety First! Our need for volunteers is constant and our guidelines reflect the latest CDC safety recommendations and follow the national and local government laws. COVID-19 vaccination will be required for in-person volunteer roles beginning January 3, 2022.
Support Veterans Going to College – A-B Tech’s Vet’s Cafe
Feb 15 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
AB Tech

 Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech) is a comprehensive two-year college and one of 58 colleges in the North Carolina Community College System, serving students in five locations in Buncombe and Madison Counties.  A-B Tech, through its dedication to student success, strives toward its mission to deliver quality education to enhance academic, workforce, and personal development. A-B Tech envisions changing lives and strengthening communities. 

We are seeking volunteers to help support our Veteran’s Cafe. A-B Tech recognizes that student military veterans benefit significantly from fellowship and networking with their peers. To meet this need, the College created the Vet’s Cafe, a supportive gathering place where students can relax, network, connect with resources, use a computer and enjoy complimentary coffee or pre-packaged snack. 

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Hosts, ensuring the Cafe is welcoming and supportive.
  • Setting out snacks and coffee
  • Helping students with computers, and tutoring/mentoring as appropriate
  • Volunteers also act as a conduit between students and the A-B Tech Veterans Advisor to ensure students get all the support they need to succeed.

Time Commitment:

  • 3 hours per shift (8am-11am, 11am-2pm, 2pm-5pm 8am-5pm)
  • 1 volunteer per shift, couples are welcome to volunteer together.

 

Qualifications:

  • Must have patience and understanding while volunteering at the Cafe
  • Military experience is preferred but not required
  • Must be computer literate

Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years old
  • Complete volunteer application with A-B Tech
  • Complete FERPA & HIPAA forms
  • Submit to a criminal background screening
  • Attend an in-person interview and orientation with A-B Tech Campus Volunteer Coordinator

Health & Safety:

  • A-B Tech is following all CDC guidelines for higher educational institutions
Urgent Need: ABCCM Crisis Ministry – Downtown – Counselor Volunteers
Feb 15 @ 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
ABCCM Crisis Ministry

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.


ABCCM Crisis Ministry is an organization providing supports and resources to individuals and families in Buncombe County who are living with low incomes, are facing financial emergencies, or are struggling to meet their basic needs. The Crisis Ministry is a division of Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), a nonprofit organization working in Buncombe County to address poverty, hunger, homelessness, and health care access. ABCCM is a family of Christian congregations in the Asheville-Buncombe County area organized to respond to emergency assistance needs in the community.

We are currently looking for compassionate volunteers to assist with supporting clients via phone and in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers will be working on site.

We are currently seeking volunteers to assist in the ABCCM Crisis Ministry office on Cumberland Ave. Shifts will run M-F from 8:30 am-4:30 pm and 12:30pm-4:30pm. Current urgent need is for Tuesday mornings 8:30 am-12:30 pm and Wednesday afternoons 12:30 pm-4:30 pm.

Volunteer Opportunity Includes:

  • Communicate with clients over the phone and outside in person.
  • Showing compassion to clients
  • Listening to clients needs
  • Communicating with ABCCM Crisis Ministry staff what the needs of the client are
  • Assisting in writing food and clothing vouchers for clients
  • Referring clients to NC 2-1-1 and other agencies for needs that ABCCM cannot meet

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Excellent listening and communication skills
  • Maintain professional boundaries with clients
  • Ability to speak clearly and take notes of needs
  • Maintain client confidentiality
  • Comfortable being on the phone for shift duration (breaks between clients)
  • Ability to remain calm during crisis situations
  • Participate in training prior to beginning your volunteer shift

Health and Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face covering, one of the below:
    • Bandanna covering nose and mouth
    • 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.
Build A Kit for Students
Feb 15 @ 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
online

Before you 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.


UWABC is committed to collaborating with donors, volunteers, community partners, and those most affected by inequity and poverty to co-create a community where all share equal access to the resources necessary to attain the education, financial stability, and health needed to thrive.

Currently, UWABC is seeking individuals, teams, and corporate partners to support students engaged in learning pods and satellite learning centers by Building Kits that provide resources such as items to support resiliency, personal care packs, school supplies, and more. 

Volunteers will be responsible for purchasing agreed-upon supplies, assembling and delivering the supplies directly to the learning site. Build a Kit items/supplies will be shared with volunteers after responding to the opportunity. 

Build A Kit Options:

  • Art Kits
  • Personal Care Kits
  • Resiliency Kits
  • School Supply Kits
  • Snack Packs

I’m interested, How do I participate?

  • Respond to this opportunity as an individual or as a team.
  • After you respond, a UWABC staff will reach out to share the pre-approved Build A Kit list and timeframe.
  • Think about your price point.
    • How much can you or your team realistically spend?
    • There is no minimum or maximum of kits needed at this time as these items are always needed and welcome.
  • Determine kit options and begin the process of ordering and assembling kits based on the pre-selected and approved lists.
    • Volunteers are asked to only purchase the pre-approved items to ensure each student receives the same items.
  • Coordinate with UWABC staff around delivery location(s) and point person on-site.
  • Deliver kits to a specified location(s).
  • Track all volunteer hours of participating individuals in Hands On.

Health and Safety:

  • This is a remote opportunity and larger groups are responsible for the health and safety of their team members’ participation.
  • Any time groups are together, UWABC encourages volunteers to follow CDC guidelines of:
    • Practicing social distancing of 6 feet apart;
    • Practicing hand hygiene often and wearing gloves when appropriate;
    • Wearing a mask when around other volunteers.
  • We ask volunteers to wear masks when delivering items.
Spread a Little Love with the Dog Therapy Program – A-B Tech
Feb 15 @ 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
A-B Tech Community College

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.


 Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech) is a comprehensive two-year college and one of 58 colleges in the North Carolina Community College System, serving students in five locations in Buncombe and Madison Counties.  A-B Tech, through its dedication to student success, strives toward its mission to deliver quality education to enhance academic, workforce, and personal development. A-B Tech envisions changing lives and strengthening communities. 

We are currently seeking registered Therapy Dog Teams to have regular routes on campus, visiting public areas, classrooms and staff offices. Our A-B Tech Therapy Dog program aims to spread compassion, empathy, and, most importantly, “pawsitivity” across our campus.  A-B Tech Community College recognizes the positive influence that therapy dogs can have on student and staff.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

  • Therapy dog teams (owner and dog) will visit public areas on campus, classrooms, and staff offices
  • Therapy dog teams will also assist with special requests such as visiting classrooms before exams, counseling sessions or special events on campus.

Time Commitment:

  • 1 hour once a week
  • Therapy Dog teams are scheduled to ensure they are not in the same building or area at the same time as other teams.

Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years old
  • Complete volunteer application with A-B Tech
  • Complete FERPA & HIPAA forms
  • Submit to a criminal background screening
  • Attend an in-person interview and orientation with A-B Tech Campus Volunteer Coordinator
  • Provide copies of Therapy Dog Certification (Dog Teams must be certified by an accredited Therapy Dog Agency before starting).

*As of 2021, the Volunteer Program accepts Therapy Dog certification from the following agencies, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Therapy Dogs International, Pet Partners (previously Delta Society).

Health & Safety:

  • A-B Tech is following all CDC guidelines for higher educational institutions
Cook and Serve Meals – ABCCM Transformation Village
Feb 15 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Transformation Village

Cook teams of 4-6 individuals are invited to bring ingredients and prepare meals onsite or bring meals that have been prepared elsewhere.  To meet our dietary standards, we ask that each meal provides a meat, vegetable and starch.

Requirements:

  • Background Check
  • Brief orientation prior to service
  • Ability to Multi-Task
  • Friendly Demeanor

Health & Safety:

  • We are asking volunteers to wear/bring their own face mask if you have not been fully vaccinated
  • Temperatures will be checked and a COVID-19 disclosure will be signed at the volunteer entrance
  • 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.


    ABCCM Transformation Village provides up to 100 beds of transitional housing and will provide emergency shelter beds, post Covid-19.  Transforming lives is through four developmental phases called Steps to Success including stabilization, life skills, education and reintegration.  We are honored to report that 8 out of 10 leave us with a living wage job and permanent housing.

    Transformation Village gives hope, healing, health and a home to single women, mothers with children, and female Veterans experiencing homelessness.  We provide residents a fresh start and a place to heal surrounded and supported by Christian love, trust, education and companionship.

    We are seeking energetic volunteers to prepare and serve meals for our residents for lunch and dinner. This opportunity provides you with the chance to prepare meals in our commercial kitchen alongside our trained staff while serving the women and children of Transformation Village. 

The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Feb 15 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
hybrid: Leicester Library and Zoom

Leicester Library Book Discussion Group - ONLINE DISCUSSION

For those patrons who are unable to attend book club in person, we are offering this online discussion of February’s book, The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Newcomers welcome!

Please sign up here to receive information for the Zoom link.

North Asheville Book Club: The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Treuer
Feb 15 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
online

North Asheville Book Club

Join us via Zoom to discuss this month’s book: The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Treuer

All book club meetings will be held virtually until further notice.

Registration is required for the Zoom link.

The North Asheville Book Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month.