Calendar of Events

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.

March 2021 Mar 2021
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Friday, March 26, 2021
MANNA Mobile Markets: Candler
Mar 26 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
ABCCM-Hominy Valley

These food distributions are free and open to the public.

Read more
Categories: Community Food & Drink Health & Wellness
Saturday, March 27, 2021
2021 World Water Day Celebrating Video Kunchu Community Borehole Solarization
Mar 27 all-day
Online w/ Improving Lives Initiative
Water has often been rightly described as the integral ingredient of life and at Davis and Shirtliff, all efforts have been made to improving the quality and management of this precious resource. Through the #ImprovingLives Initiative launched in 2020, the company and its partners have implemented 295 water projects across the region, improving 658,000 lives in the process. The availability of clean water is known to transform societies in terms of health, education, and economic prosperity and for this reason, World Water Day is observed annually by the UN in order to highlight the importance of sustainably managed freshwater. In commemoration of World Water Day 2021, the D&S #ImprovingLives initiative has solarized a water project in Kunchu community, Kajiado County that will benefit over 1,800 community members and particularly women who previously had to walk 34kms to access safe water for their daily use. The handing over of the water project was celebrated in a colorful ceremony, captured on video and available to view.

What does water mean to you? To Davis & Shirtliff, water is an integral ingredient for life. To commemorate World Water Day 2021, we upgraded the Kunchu Community borehole to a hybrid solar system. The 1,800 member community used to rely on a diesel generator to pump water, using over 70 litres of fuel a week. With the new solar powered system they no longer need to spend money on diesel and instead can harness the power of the sun for free. At Davis and Shirtliff, we dedicate our efforts to improving the quality and management of this priceless resource. Through its #ImprovingLives​ Initiative, Davis and Shirtliff has implemented 295 water projects, improving 658,000 lives.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
High-Risk Medical Conditions Group 4: Eligible COVID-19 Vaccine Beginning March 17
Mar 27 all-day
Online w/ NC Department of Health and Human Services
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, M.D. announced beginning on March 17, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of serious illness and people who live in certain congregate settings will be eligible for vaccination. The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers will become eligible April 7. (See Deeper Dive)
The state was able to update its timeline today based on provider feedback and expected supply. As with previous eligibility changes, some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to Group 4 on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1 through 3.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Higher Risk Individuals in Group 4 are Now Eligible for COVID Vaccines
Mar 27 all-day
North Carolina
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released information on the addition of high-risk, group 4 individuals to those eligible for vaccines. According to their release, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness and those who live in certain congregate settings are now eligible for vaccination. You can find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you at MySpot.nc.gov.
North Carolina follows the recommendations of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as to who is at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That includes adults of any age with conditions, such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, sickle cell disease, obesity, or smoking.
In addition, those who are eligible starting March 17 includes anyone who is living in higher-risk congregate or close group living settings who is not already vaccinated.
The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers, will become eligible April 7. Previously eligible groups – health care workers, long-term care staff and residents, people 65 and older, and frontline essential workers – will continue to be prioritized.
Some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to people with a medical condition on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1, 2 and 3.
Visit YourShotYourSpot.nc.gov (English) or Vacunate.nc.gov (Spanish) for more information about the vaccines, including answers to frequently asked questions..
Not sure what vaccine group you’re in? Visit FindMyGroup.nc.gov. You can also contact the COVID-19 Vaccine Help Center toll-free at 1-888-675-4567.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Hiking for Hunger
Mar 27 all-day
Online w/ Hiking for Hunger

Former Volunteer Manager, Micah Tomlinson, and former MANNA Community Market Driver, Keeka Grant-Tomlinson, began hiking the Appalachian Trail together as part of Hiking for Hunger – a fundraiser created by both of them to help raise awareness of hunger and food insecurity in WNC, while also raising funds for MANNA FoodBank.
To follow along with their thru-hike and to learn more about Hiking for Hunger, Hiking for Hunger | Making miles for meals in Western North Carolina.
Read more
Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness Hike Hiking
North Carolina to Further Relax COVID-19 Restrictions
Mar 27 all-day
North Carolina
Governor Cooper announced Tuesday that North Carolina will continue to ease some COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 204 will take effect Friday, March 26 at 5 pm and is set to expire April 30th at 5 pm. The general mask mandate will remain in effect.
Executive Order 204 has three general categories of occupancy restrictions: up to 100% capacity, 75% capacity, and 50% capacity. All businesses must continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between patrons and implement safety protocols as they expand capacity.
The Executive Order also increases the mass gathering limits. The number of people who may gather indoors will increase to 50 and the number of people who may gather outdoors will increase to 100. The Order also lifts the restrictions on the late-night sale and service of alcoholic beverages on bars, restaurants, and other establishments.
Indoors and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Museums and Aquariums
  • Retail Businesses
  • Salons, personal care and grooming businesses, tattoo parlors
Indoors up to 75% and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Restaurants
  • Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries
  • Recreation (e.g., bowling, skating, rock climbing)
  • Fitness and Physical Activity Facilities (e.g., gyms, yoga studios, fitness centers)
  • Pools
  • Amusement Parks
Indoors and Outdoors up to 50% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Bars
  • Movie Theaters*
  • Gaming Facilities*
  • Meeting, Reception, and Conference Spaces
  • Lounges (including tobacco) and Night Clubs
  • Auditoriums, Arenas, and other venues for live performances
  • Sports Arenas and Fields (includes professional, collegiate, and amateur
*Movie theaters and gaming facilities may operate at up to 75% capacity outdoors.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Registration Open for Senior Games + Silver Arts 2021
Mar 27 all-day
Buncombe County Parks

Each spring, hundreds of locals 50+ years-old enjoy participating in the Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and Silver Arts. This year’s program will be held at locations throughout Buncombe County from the week of Apr. 19 through May 19 (tentative). There is no registration fee this year.

To register, fill out a registration form (see documents below) or register online at ncseniorgames.org.

Sports include bowling, croquet, football throw, softball throw, golf, putt-putt, cycling, track and field, archery, cheerleading, swimming, billiards, badminton, cornhole, horseshoes, pickleball, racquetball, shuffleboard, tennis, and table tennis. Age categories start at 50 and increase at five year intervals.

Silver Arts categories are classified as Heritage (quilting, woodwork, crochet, basket weaving, jewelry, needlework, tole painting, weaving, knitting, pottery, stained glass, woodcarving, and woodturning), Visual (solo, small group, and large group), Performing, Literary (poem, short story, essay, and life experience), and Contemporary. Art pieces will be displayed online.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness Parks & Recreation Sports
Shiloh Peace Garden Food Pantry + PPE Supplies for those In Need
Mar 27 all-day
Shiloh Peace Garden

Community Collaboration Helps Neighbors in Time of Need

Food insecurity has risen significantly across the country due to pandemic-related job losses and struggles, and in Buncombe County local food pantries are popping up to help feed neighborhood families.

A collaborative, community-led project between Bountiful Cities, St. James AME Church, East End Valley Street Neighborhood Association, and Shiloh Community Association has neighbors helping neighbors to get non-perishable food and personal protective equipment (PPE) right where it’s needed most.

To serve people in need in the community, there are two new food pantries located at St. James AME Church and the Shiloh Peace Garden. Both pantries were handmade by Asheville local, Max Mandler of Mandler Construction. The pantry at St. James AME is dedicated to the memory of Bernadette Thompson, a longtime community activist and faithful member of the church for many years, and features artwork by local artist Jenny Pickens.

Community members will find both pantries stocked with non-perishable, nutritious food and free masks, hand sanitizers, cleaning supplies, and other items that will assist individuals in staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Upkeep and stocking the pantry will be a joint effort among the sponsoring organizations and the community-at-large. Thanks to CARES funding, Buncombe County government was able to help with initial supply efforts. The pantries will be open seven days a week and are set up to be self-serve. Everyone is welcome to utilize the pantries for both food and PPE needs.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
The Partner Agency Map: Who is your nearest food partner?
Mar 27 all-day
Online w/ Manna Food Bank
The Partner Agency Map:
Who is your nearest food partner?
Do you know your nearest local resource for free food?
Take a moment from your day and view the Partner Agency Map to learn more about your local resources are for free food. Whether you are looking for supplemental food yourself or know someone who may be, this information is great to know and share.
To create a food secure WNC we need to make sure we’re aware of the resources we have available for ourselves and the people in our personal networks.

FIND A FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION NEAR YOU

The MANNA Partner Network of over 200 nonprofit pantries, meal sites, and other community-based organizations help residents to access free food across 16 western North Carolina counties. Use the map below to find MANNA partners close to you, or search the up-to-date listing of food partners (by county).

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
UNC Asheville Opens On-Campus Vaccine Clinic in Partnership with MAHEC
Mar 27 all-day
UNC Asheville Reuter Center
TIME AND DATES VARY
Nearly a year into the coronavirus pandemic, UNC Asheville has a new role to play in combating COVID-19, expanding the campus’ commitment of care and compassion beyond the classrooms and into the community, as the Reuter Center has been transformed into a COVID-19 immunization site in partnership with the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC).

“MAHEC and UNCA are eager to urgently vaccinate as many people as possible every week until COVID is no longer present in Western North Carolina,” commented MAHEC’s CEO Jeff Heck. “UNCA is a great partner and together we will work to bring the vaccine to as many residents as possible.”

The site continues to call individuals as vaccine shipments arrive. Schedule updates and frequently asked questions will be posted at https://coronavirus.unca.edu/faq/covid-19-vaccine/, and individuals will be contacted directly with their appointment details.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
American Red Cross Be a hero Roll up a Sleeve
Mar 27 @ 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
Asheville Blood Donation Center

March is Red Cross Month, and for more than 130 years, heroic American Red Cross volunteers have provided hope and urgent relief to families in communities across the country.
This March the community is invited to join in the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross and be
someone’s hero by rolling up a sleeve to give blood.
According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds to respond to
patient emergencies. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients,
and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all require blood.
All blood types are needed.
Be a hero in your community by rolling up a sleeve….

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor
App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood
Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass® online health history
questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the
instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card
or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who
are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High
school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height
and weight requirements.

Read more
Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness
American Red Cross Be a hero Roll up a Sleeve
Mar 27 @ 8:00 am – 12:30 pm
Etowah Lions Club Den

March is Red Cross Month, and for more than 130 years, heroic American Red Cross volunteers have provided hope and urgent relief to families in communities across the country.
This March the community is invited to join in the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross and be
someone’s hero by rolling up a sleeve to give blood.
According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds to respond to
patient emergencies. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients,
and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all require blood.
All blood types are needed.
Be a hero in your community by rolling up a sleeve….

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor
App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood
Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass® online health history
questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the
instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card
or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who
are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High
school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height
and weight requirements.

Read more
Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness
Sunday, March 28, 2021
2021 World Water Day Celebrating Video Kunchu Community Borehole Solarization
Mar 28 all-day
Online w/ Improving Lives Initiative
Water has often been rightly described as the integral ingredient of life and at Davis and Shirtliff, all efforts have been made to improving the quality and management of this precious resource. Through the #ImprovingLives Initiative launched in 2020, the company and its partners have implemented 295 water projects across the region, improving 658,000 lives in the process. The availability of clean water is known to transform societies in terms of health, education, and economic prosperity and for this reason, World Water Day is observed annually by the UN in order to highlight the importance of sustainably managed freshwater. In commemoration of World Water Day 2021, the D&S #ImprovingLives initiative has solarized a water project in Kunchu community, Kajiado County that will benefit over 1,800 community members and particularly women who previously had to walk 34kms to access safe water for their daily use. The handing over of the water project was celebrated in a colorful ceremony, captured on video and available to view.

What does water mean to you? To Davis & Shirtliff, water is an integral ingredient for life. To commemorate World Water Day 2021, we upgraded the Kunchu Community borehole to a hybrid solar system. The 1,800 member community used to rely on a diesel generator to pump water, using over 70 litres of fuel a week. With the new solar powered system they no longer need to spend money on diesel and instead can harness the power of the sun for free. At Davis and Shirtliff, we dedicate our efforts to improving the quality and management of this priceless resource. Through its #ImprovingLives​ Initiative, Davis and Shirtliff has implemented 295 water projects, improving 658,000 lives.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
High-Risk Medical Conditions Group 4: Eligible COVID-19 Vaccine Beginning March 17
Mar 28 all-day
Online w/ NC Department of Health and Human Services
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, M.D. announced beginning on March 17, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of serious illness and people who live in certain congregate settings will be eligible for vaccination. The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers will become eligible April 7. (See Deeper Dive)
The state was able to update its timeline today based on provider feedback and expected supply. As with previous eligibility changes, some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to Group 4 on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1 through 3.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Higher Risk Individuals in Group 4 are Now Eligible for COVID Vaccines
Mar 28 all-day
North Carolina
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released information on the addition of high-risk, group 4 individuals to those eligible for vaccines. According to their release, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness and those who live in certain congregate settings are now eligible for vaccination. You can find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you at MySpot.nc.gov.
North Carolina follows the recommendations of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as to who is at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That includes adults of any age with conditions, such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, sickle cell disease, obesity, or smoking.
In addition, those who are eligible starting March 17 includes anyone who is living in higher-risk congregate or close group living settings who is not already vaccinated.
The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers, will become eligible April 7. Previously eligible groups – health care workers, long-term care staff and residents, people 65 and older, and frontline essential workers – will continue to be prioritized.
Some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to people with a medical condition on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1, 2 and 3.
Visit YourShotYourSpot.nc.gov (English) or Vacunate.nc.gov (Spanish) for more information about the vaccines, including answers to frequently asked questions..
Not sure what vaccine group you’re in? Visit FindMyGroup.nc.gov. You can also contact the COVID-19 Vaccine Help Center toll-free at 1-888-675-4567.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Hiking for Hunger
Mar 28 all-day
Online w/ Hiking for Hunger

Former Volunteer Manager, Micah Tomlinson, and former MANNA Community Market Driver, Keeka Grant-Tomlinson, began hiking the Appalachian Trail together as part of Hiking for Hunger – a fundraiser created by both of them to help raise awareness of hunger and food insecurity in WNC, while also raising funds for MANNA FoodBank.
To follow along with their thru-hike and to learn more about Hiking for Hunger, Hiking for Hunger | Making miles for meals in Western North Carolina.
Read more
Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness Hike Hiking
North Carolina to Further Relax COVID-19 Restrictions
Mar 28 all-day
North Carolina
Governor Cooper announced Tuesday that North Carolina will continue to ease some COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 204 will take effect Friday, March 26 at 5 pm and is set to expire April 30th at 5 pm. The general mask mandate will remain in effect.
Executive Order 204 has three general categories of occupancy restrictions: up to 100% capacity, 75% capacity, and 50% capacity. All businesses must continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between patrons and implement safety protocols as they expand capacity.
The Executive Order also increases the mass gathering limits. The number of people who may gather indoors will increase to 50 and the number of people who may gather outdoors will increase to 100. The Order also lifts the restrictions on the late-night sale and service of alcoholic beverages on bars, restaurants, and other establishments.
Indoors and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Museums and Aquariums
  • Retail Businesses
  • Salons, personal care and grooming businesses, tattoo parlors
Indoors up to 75% and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Restaurants
  • Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries
  • Recreation (e.g., bowling, skating, rock climbing)
  • Fitness and Physical Activity Facilities (e.g., gyms, yoga studios, fitness centers)
  • Pools
  • Amusement Parks
Indoors and Outdoors up to 50% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Bars
  • Movie Theaters*
  • Gaming Facilities*
  • Meeting, Reception, and Conference Spaces
  • Lounges (including tobacco) and Night Clubs
  • Auditoriums, Arenas, and other venues for live performances
  • Sports Arenas and Fields (includes professional, collegiate, and amateur
*Movie theaters and gaming facilities may operate at up to 75% capacity outdoors.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Registration Open for Senior Games + Silver Arts 2021
Mar 28 all-day
Buncombe County Parks

Each spring, hundreds of locals 50+ years-old enjoy participating in the Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and Silver Arts. This year’s program will be held at locations throughout Buncombe County from the week of Apr. 19 through May 19 (tentative). There is no registration fee this year.

To register, fill out a registration form (see documents below) or register online at ncseniorgames.org.

Sports include bowling, croquet, football throw, softball throw, golf, putt-putt, cycling, track and field, archery, cheerleading, swimming, billiards, badminton, cornhole, horseshoes, pickleball, racquetball, shuffleboard, tennis, and table tennis. Age categories start at 50 and increase at five year intervals.

Silver Arts categories are classified as Heritage (quilting, woodwork, crochet, basket weaving, jewelry, needlework, tole painting, weaving, knitting, pottery, stained glass, woodcarving, and woodturning), Visual (solo, small group, and large group), Performing, Literary (poem, short story, essay, and life experience), and Contemporary. Art pieces will be displayed online.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness Parks & Recreation Sports
The Partner Agency Map: Who is your nearest food partner?
Mar 28 all-day
Online w/ Manna Food Bank
The Partner Agency Map:
Who is your nearest food partner?
Do you know your nearest local resource for free food?
Take a moment from your day and view the Partner Agency Map to learn more about your local resources are for free food. Whether you are looking for supplemental food yourself or know someone who may be, this information is great to know and share.
To create a food secure WNC we need to make sure we’re aware of the resources we have available for ourselves and the people in our personal networks.

FIND A FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION NEAR YOU

The MANNA Partner Network of over 200 nonprofit pantries, meal sites, and other community-based organizations help residents to access free food across 16 western North Carolina counties. Use the map below to find MANNA partners close to you, or search the up-to-date listing of food partners (by county).

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
UNC Asheville Opens On-Campus Vaccine Clinic in Partnership with MAHEC
Mar 28 all-day
UNC Asheville Reuter Center
TIME AND DATES VARY
Nearly a year into the coronavirus pandemic, UNC Asheville has a new role to play in combating COVID-19, expanding the campus’ commitment of care and compassion beyond the classrooms and into the community, as the Reuter Center has been transformed into a COVID-19 immunization site in partnership with the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC).

“MAHEC and UNCA are eager to urgently vaccinate as many people as possible every week until COVID is no longer present in Western North Carolina,” commented MAHEC’s CEO Jeff Heck. “UNCA is a great partner and together we will work to bring the vaccine to as many residents as possible.”

The site continues to call individuals as vaccine shipments arrive. Schedule updates and frequently asked questions will be posted at https://coronavirus.unca.edu/faq/covid-19-vaccine/, and individuals will be contacted directly with their appointment details.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
American Red Cross Be a hero Roll up a Sleeve
Mar 28 @ 7:00 am – 3:00 pm
Asheville Blood Donation Center

March is Red Cross Month, and for more than 130 years, heroic American Red Cross volunteers have provided hope and urgent relief to families in communities across the country.
This March the community is invited to join in the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross and be
someone’s hero by rolling up a sleeve to give blood.
According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds to respond to
patient emergencies. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients,
and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all require blood.
All blood types are needed.
Be a hero in your community by rolling up a sleeve….

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor
App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood
Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass® online health history
questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the
instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card
or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who
are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High
school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height
and weight requirements.

Read more
Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness
Monday, March 29, 2021
2021 World Water Day Celebrating Video Kunchu Community Borehole Solarization
Mar 29 all-day
Online w/ Improving Lives Initiative
Water has often been rightly described as the integral ingredient of life and at Davis and Shirtliff, all efforts have been made to improving the quality and management of this precious resource. Through the #ImprovingLives Initiative launched in 2020, the company and its partners have implemented 295 water projects across the region, improving 658,000 lives in the process. The availability of clean water is known to transform societies in terms of health, education, and economic prosperity and for this reason, World Water Day is observed annually by the UN in order to highlight the importance of sustainably managed freshwater. In commemoration of World Water Day 2021, the D&S #ImprovingLives initiative has solarized a water project in Kunchu community, Kajiado County that will benefit over 1,800 community members and particularly women who previously had to walk 34kms to access safe water for their daily use. The handing over of the water project was celebrated in a colorful ceremony, captured on video and available to view.

What does water mean to you? To Davis & Shirtliff, water is an integral ingredient for life. To commemorate World Water Day 2021, we upgraded the Kunchu Community borehole to a hybrid solar system. The 1,800 member community used to rely on a diesel generator to pump water, using over 70 litres of fuel a week. With the new solar powered system they no longer need to spend money on diesel and instead can harness the power of the sun for free. At Davis and Shirtliff, we dedicate our efforts to improving the quality and management of this priceless resource. Through its #ImprovingLives​ Initiative, Davis and Shirtliff has implemented 295 water projects, improving 658,000 lives.

Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
High-Risk Medical Conditions Group 4: Eligible COVID-19 Vaccine Beginning March 17
Mar 29 all-day
Online w/ NC Department of Health and Human Services
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, M.D. announced beginning on March 17, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of serious illness and people who live in certain congregate settings will be eligible for vaccination. The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers will become eligible April 7. (See Deeper Dive)
The state was able to update its timeline today based on provider feedback and expected supply. As with previous eligibility changes, some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to Group 4 on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1 through 3.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Higher Risk Individuals in Group 4 are Now Eligible for COVID Vaccines
Mar 29 all-day
North Carolina
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services released information on the addition of high-risk, group 4 individuals to those eligible for vaccines. According to their release, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness and those who live in certain congregate settings are now eligible for vaccination. You can find a COVID-19 vaccination site near you at MySpot.nc.gov.
North Carolina follows the recommendations of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as to who is at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That includes adults of any age with conditions, such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, sickle cell disease, obesity, or smoking.
In addition, those who are eligible starting March 17 includes anyone who is living in higher-risk congregate or close group living settings who is not already vaccinated.
The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers, will become eligible April 7. Previously eligible groups – health care workers, long-term care staff and residents, people 65 and older, and frontline essential workers – will continue to be prioritized.
Some vaccine providers may not be ready to open to people with a medical condition on March 17 if they are still experiencing high demand for vaccines in Groups 1, 2 and 3.
Visit YourShotYourSpot.nc.gov (English) or Vacunate.nc.gov (Spanish) for more information about the vaccines, including answers to frequently asked questions..
Not sure what vaccine group you’re in? Visit FindMyGroup.nc.gov. You can also contact the COVID-19 Vaccine Help Center toll-free at 1-888-675-4567.
Read more
Categories: Community Health & Wellness
North Carolina to Further Relax COVID-19 Restrictions
Mar 29 all-day
North Carolina
Governor Cooper announced Tuesday that North Carolina will continue to ease some COVID-19 restrictions. Executive Order 204 will take effect Friday, March 26 at 5 pm and is set to expire April 30th at 5 pm. The general mask mandate will remain in effect.
Executive Order 204 has three general categories of occupancy restrictions: up to 100% capacity, 75% capacity, and 50% capacity. All businesses must continue to maintain 6 feet of distance between patrons and implement safety protocols as they expand capacity.
The Executive Order also increases the mass gathering limits. The number of people who may gather indoors will increase to 50 and the number of people who may gather outdoors will increase to 100. The Order also lifts the restrictions on the late-night sale and service of alcoholic beverages on bars, restaurants, and other establishments.
Indoors and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Museums and Aquariums
  • Retail Businesses
  • Salons, personal care and grooming businesses, tattoo parlors
Indoors up to 75% and Outdoors up to 100% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Restaurants
  • Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries
  • Recreation (e.g., bowling, skating, rock climbing)
  • Fitness and Physical Activity Facilities (e.g., gyms, yoga studios, fitness centers)
  • Pools
  • Amusement Parks
Indoors and Outdoors up to 50% Capacity, Subject to Masks and 6 ft. Social Distancing
  • Bars
  • Movie Theaters*
  • Gaming Facilities*
  • Meeting, Reception, and Conference Spaces
  • Lounges (including tobacco) and Night Clubs
  • Auditoriums, Arenas, and other venues for live performances
  • Sports Arenas and Fields (includes professional, collegiate, and amateur
*Movie theaters and gaming facilities may operate at up to 75% capacity outdoors.
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Categories: Community Health & Wellness
Registration Open for Senior Games + Silver Arts 2021
Mar 29 all-day
Buncombe County Parks

Each spring, hundreds of locals 50+ years-old enjoy participating in the Asheville-Buncombe Senior Games and Silver Arts. This year’s program will be held at locations throughout Buncombe County from the week of Apr. 19 through May 19 (tentative). There is no registration fee this year.

To register, fill out a registration form (see documents below) or register online at ncseniorgames.org.

Sports include bowling, croquet, football throw, softball throw, golf, putt-putt, cycling, track and field, archery, cheerleading, swimming, billiards, badminton, cornhole, horseshoes, pickleball, racquetball, shuffleboard, tennis, and table tennis. Age categories start at 50 and increase at five year intervals.

Silver Arts categories are classified as Heritage (quilting, woodwork, crochet, basket weaving, jewelry, needlework, tole painting, weaving, knitting, pottery, stained glass, woodcarving, and woodturning), Visual (solo, small group, and large group), Performing, Literary (poem, short story, essay, and life experience), and Contemporary. Art pieces will be displayed online.

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Categories: Community Health & Wellness Parks & Recreation Sports
The Partner Agency Map: Who is your nearest food partner?
Mar 29 all-day
Online w/ Manna Food Bank
The Partner Agency Map:
Who is your nearest food partner?
Do you know your nearest local resource for free food?
Take a moment from your day and view the Partner Agency Map to learn more about your local resources are for free food. Whether you are looking for supplemental food yourself or know someone who may be, this information is great to know and share.
To create a food secure WNC we need to make sure we’re aware of the resources we have available for ourselves and the people in our personal networks.

FIND A FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION NEAR YOU

The MANNA Partner Network of over 200 nonprofit pantries, meal sites, and other community-based organizations help residents to access free food across 16 western North Carolina counties. Use the map below to find MANNA partners close to you, or search the up-to-date listing of food partners (by county).

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Categories: Community Health & Wellness
UNC Asheville Opens On-Campus Vaccine Clinic in Partnership with MAHEC
Mar 29 all-day
UNC Asheville Reuter Center
TIME AND DATES VARY
Nearly a year into the coronavirus pandemic, UNC Asheville has a new role to play in combating COVID-19, expanding the campus’ commitment of care and compassion beyond the classrooms and into the community, as the Reuter Center has been transformed into a COVID-19 immunization site in partnership with the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC).

“MAHEC and UNCA are eager to urgently vaccinate as many people as possible every week until COVID is no longer present in Western North Carolina,” commented MAHEC’s CEO Jeff Heck. “UNCA is a great partner and together we will work to bring the vaccine to as many residents as possible.”

The site continues to call individuals as vaccine shipments arrive. Schedule updates and frequently asked questions will be posted at https://coronavirus.unca.edu/faq/covid-19-vaccine/, and individuals will be contacted directly with their appointment details.
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Categories: Community Health & Wellness
American Red Cross Be a hero Roll up a Sleeve
Mar 29 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Henderson County Offices American Red Cross Basement Office

March is Red Cross Month, and for more than 130 years, heroic American Red Cross volunteers have provided hope and urgent relief to families in communities across the country.
This March the community is invited to join in the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross and be
someone’s hero by rolling up a sleeve to give blood.
According to the Red Cross, someone in the U.S. needs blood every two seconds to respond to
patient emergencies. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients,
and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all require blood.
All blood types are needed.
Be a hero in your community by rolling up a sleeve….

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor
App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood
Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass® online health history
questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the
instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card
or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who
are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh
at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High
school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height
and weight requirements.

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Categories: Community Donations Health & Wellness
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
Mar 29 @ 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
The Council on Aging of Buncombe County
Medicare Advantage
Open Enrollment Period
ends March 31.
Each year, if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan or switch to Original Medicare (and join a separate Medicare drug plan) once during this time.
Our Medicare counselors are available to work with you individually to provide unbiased information about your Medicare insurance options.
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Categories: Community Education Health & Wellness