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, March 8, 2020
Flat Rock Playhouse seeking volunteers
Mar 8 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Flat Rock Playhouse and The Supporting Players are excited to announce they are welcoming volunteers who will participate in various programs that take you behind-the-scenes at the State Theatre of North Carolina.

“The Supporting Players of Flat Rock Playhouse is a great way to meet and work with people that are like-minded and have a desire to come alongside the staff to help secure the future of performing arts in western North Carolina, “ remarks Karolyn Killian, President of Supporting Players. “It is a pleasure and a joy to volunteer my time and talent for such a wonderful group of people that are dedicated to excellence in live theatre and our community!”

The Supporting Players are a unique way to get an inside look into life on the Rock while making an impact on our community. If you are interested in joining this passionate collective of volunteers and becoming part of the Flat Rock Playhouse family, make sure to tune into WTZQ on March 10th at 8:00 am to hear from some of the Supporting Players. Additionally, you can visit flatrockplayhouse.org/volunteer or email [email protected] to learn more!

Monday, March 9, 2020
Coach Needed at Hominy Valley Elementary Girls on the Run!
Mar 9 all-day
Hominy Valley Elementary
Image

 

We are in URGENT need of two assistant coaches at Hominy Valley Elementary on one or both program days (greater need on Wednesdays). The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm.

With your support, 15 girls will grow their confidence, learn to stand up for themselves and others, and realize their voices matter. You don’t even need to like running!

Flat Rock Playhouse seeking volunteers
Mar 9 all-day
Flat Rock Playhouse

Flat Rock Playhouse and The Supporting Players are excited to announce they are welcoming volunteers who will participate in various programs that take you behind-the-scenes at the State Theatre of North Carolina.

“The Supporting Players of Flat Rock Playhouse is a great way to meet and work with people that are like-minded and have a desire to come alongside the staff to help secure the future of performing arts in western North Carolina, “ remarks Karolyn Killian, President of Supporting Players. “It is a pleasure and a joy to volunteer my time and talent for such a wonderful group of people that are dedicated to excellence in live theatre and our community!”

The Supporting Players are a unique way to get an inside look into life on the Rock while making an impact on our community. If you are interested in joining this passionate collective of volunteers and becoming part of the Flat Rock Playhouse family, make sure to tune into WTZQ on March 10th at 8:00 am to hear from some of the Supporting Players. Additionally, you can visit flatrockplayhouse.org/volunteer or email [email protected] to learn more!

Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Awakening Support Group
Mar 10 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism

This group is dedicated to the growing number of people interested in Awakening to their True Nature. We explore the experience of simply Being through:

| Self-Inquiry | Presence | Surrender | Gratitude | Meditation |

• Transcend egoic mind patterns
• See the gift in challenging situations
• Live your Life’s Purpose
• Find lasting Inner Peace

Group meetings consist of Meditation, Video Satsang (watching videos of spiritual teachers) and a Sharing Circle (optional).

Donations of any amount are welcomed. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. (Donate online at https://tinyurl.com/awakeningsupport)

About the Facilitator:

Trey Carland, author of “A Seeker’s Guide to Inner Peace: Notes to Self,” has been hosting Awakening group meetings since 2007. “My passion is sharing the gift of Awakening with the World.”

Comments:

“Trey Carland embodies perfectly the quote, “still waters run deep.” I happened upon Trey several years ago through his spiritual awakening group. From this experience, Trey appeared to me as a wise Sage. Trey is accepting and patient with people. His demeanor is calm and loving. For me, it was evident that the stillness of Trey’s soul, is like a shimmering river that runs endlessly, with much depth. With celebration, I am blessed for having him as a friend. ” ~ John K.

(Read More at http://www.treycarland.com)

Thursday, March 12, 2020
11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 12 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Friday, March 13, 2020
11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 13 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Literacy Changing Lives Tour
Mar 13 @ 9:00 am
Literacy Council

 

Would you like to learn more about how literacy changes our students’ lives?

Please join us for coffee and a one-hour tour of the Literacy Council.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES for 2020

Friday, January 10 – 9am | Monday, February 10 – 4pm | Friday, March 13 – 9am
Monday, April 13 – 4pm | Friday, May 8 – 9am | Monday, June 8 – 4pm

 

Saturday, March 14, 2020
Coach Needed at Hominy Valley Elementary Girls on the Run!
Mar 14 all-day
Hominy Valley Elementary
Image

 

We are in URGENT need of two assistant coaches at Hominy Valley Elementary on one or both program days (greater need on Wednesdays). The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm.

With your support, 15 girls will grow their confidence, learn to stand up for themselves and others, and realize their voices matter. You don’t even need to like running!

11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 14 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Annual Candler Cleanup
Mar 14 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
AB-Tech Enka Campus

Image

Join in the annual Candler cleanup with the Enka Candler Business Association and Asheville GreenWorks. Sign up with your family or work team and select a road to work on for the morning. Please dress appropriately for the weather, including long pants and closed-toe shoes. All other gear and supplies will be provided.

Sunday, March 15, 2020
Coach Needed at Hominy Valley Elementary Girls on the Run!
Mar 15 all-day
Hominy Valley Elementary
Image

 

We are in URGENT need of two assistant coaches at Hominy Valley Elementary on one or both program days (greater need on Wednesdays). The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm.

With your support, 15 girls will grow their confidence, learn to stand up for themselves and others, and realize their voices matter. You don’t even need to like running!

LEAF Volunteers is now LEAF WeX
Mar 15 all-day
LEAF
We’ve opted to shift the name and give some different benefits.
WHAT is changing? The name, WeX Star Crew benefit, & Festival HQ
– Regular Volunteers are now WeX. Work 10 hours in exchange for Weekend (Fri to Sun) Ticket
– Plus Volunteers are now WeX Plus. Work 15 hours in exchange for a Weekend Plus (Thu to Sun) Ticket
– Star Volunteers are now WeX Star. Work 20 hours in exchange for a Weekend Plus (Thu to Sun) Ticket AND a Culinary Passport -OR- a Star Guest Pass Ticket (Thu to Sun). Guest passes are LIMITED.

We’ll update our Auto-Reply as well as make a note on the website when the guest pass is no longer an available option. Those who have submitted completed applications prior to the cut off will have the guest pass option.

WeX Headquarters (HQ) will now be located under the Ship with a designated lounging area for WeXs. Make sure to come by and say hello!! You’ll pick up official schedule cards and culinary passes here as well.

CANCELLED: Pollinator Meadow Workday
Mar 15 @ 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Beaver Lake Pollinator Meadow

Image

Asheville GreenWorks invites you to join Florrie Funk, of the Bee City Asheville Leadership Committee, for an afternoon to improve one of Asheville’s pollinator havens! The workday will consist of removing invasive species from the pollinator meadow at the Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary.

PLEASE wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. There will be gloves, but please bring hand pruners, trowels, or other weeding tools if you have them!
We will primarily be removing Japanese Honeysuckle, Porcelain Berry and non-native Clematis vines, pulling them out and digging out the bigger roots. These are aggressive invasive vines that displace the native wildflowers and grasses that native pollinators depend on. This is an excellent opportunity to learn how to identify and manually remove some of our area’s most tenacious invasives.

Volunteers will receive a Bee City USA – Asheville window cling!

 

 

Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Awakening Support Group
Mar 17 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism

This group is dedicated to the growing number of people interested in Awakening to their True Nature. We explore the experience of simply Being through:

| Self-Inquiry | Presence | Surrender | Gratitude | Meditation |

• Transcend egoic mind patterns
• See the gift in challenging situations
• Live your Life’s Purpose
• Find lasting Inner Peace

Group meetings consist of Meditation, Video Satsang (watching videos of spiritual teachers) and a Sharing Circle (optional).

Donations of any amount are welcomed. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. (Donate online at https://tinyurl.com/awakeningsupport)

About the Facilitator:

Trey Carland, author of “A Seeker’s Guide to Inner Peace: Notes to Self,” has been hosting Awakening group meetings since 2007. “My passion is sharing the gift of Awakening with the World.”

Comments:

“Trey Carland embodies perfectly the quote, “still waters run deep.” I happened upon Trey several years ago through his spiritual awakening group. From this experience, Trey appeared to me as a wise Sage. Trey is accepting and patient with people. His demeanor is calm and loving. For me, it was evident that the stillness of Trey’s soul, is like a shimmering river that runs endlessly, with much depth. With celebration, I am blessed for having him as a friend. ” ~ John K.

(Read More at http://www.treycarland.com)

Thursday, March 19, 2020
11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 19 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Friday, March 20, 2020
11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 20 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Saturday, March 21, 2020
Coach Needed at Hominy Valley Elementary Girls on the Run!
Mar 21 all-day
Hominy Valley Elementary
Image

 

We are in URGENT need of two assistant coaches at Hominy Valley Elementary on one or both program days (greater need on Wednesdays). The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm.

With your support, 15 girls will grow their confidence, learn to stand up for themselves and others, and realize their voices matter. You don’t even need to like running!

11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger Volunteers needed
Mar 21 @ 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
Reuter Family YMCA
rotarians
                                                          against
                                                          hunger

Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day.
 Rotary clubs across the region are on a mission to improve food access. The public can help by volunteering for the 11th Annual Rotarians Against Hunger meal packing event on March 21 at the Reuter Family YMCA.
“The goal is to package 350,000 nutritious meals, consisting of black beans, brown rice, and white rice,” said Cory Jackson, executive director of Community Health at the YMCA of WNC. “The meals will be distributed at no charge throughout the area by MANNA FoodBank and at our 30 regional mobile markets.”
Volunteers are needed to help set up, package meals, and clean up throughout the day. The event is a fun, family-friendly, and immensely rewarding experience for people of all ages.
Volunteer slots:
First shift: 8-10 a.m.
Second shift: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Third shift: 1-3 p.m.
Take down and clean up: 3-6 p.m.
This year’s event is part of a week-long series of volunteering events in Western North Carolina hosted by PubCorps. For those unable to make the March 21 event, PubCorps will offer another meal packaging opportunity. Please visit www.pubcorps.com for more information.
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Asheville Marathon & Half at Biltmore Estate
Mar 22 all-day
Biltmore Estate

The nationally recognized, 8th Annual Asheville Marathon and Half marathon, will return to Asheville’s Biltmore Estate on March 21 & 22, 2020. The Asheville Marathon and Half events are ’boutique style’ events with limited entries available of 1,525 runners per day.

In 2018, the Asheville Marathon was named by Outside Online as one of the Top 9 vacation-worthy marathons and The Top Ten Best Spring/Summer Marathons to Run by MapMyRun. We were also listed as one of the 70 American Road Races every runner should finish by Runner’s World Magazine.

In 2017, the Asheville Marathon was named Top 25 Must-Do American Marathons by Competitor Magazine. In addition, the Asheville Half Marathon at Biltmore was honored to also be selected in the “Best Of” category in the 100 Half Marathons Club.

Run in America’s largest backyard at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina at the 8th Annual Asheville Half Marathon 3/21 & AVL Marathon & Half Marathon on 3/22/20 OR DO BOTH DAYS and complete one of our Challenges! Details can be found on our website at www.ashevillemarathon.com.

Blood Donations Where Lifesaving Starts
Mar 22 all-day
Blood Connection

It is very important for donors to continue donating in the weeks and months ahead in order to maintain an adequate local blood supply. If you are feeling healthy and well, please make an appointment before donating so we can maintain the proper social distancing. The safety of our donors and staff is our top priority!

Coach Needed at Hominy Valley Elementary Girls on the Run!
Mar 22 all-day
Hominy Valley Elementary
Image

 

We are in URGENT need of two assistant coaches at Hominy Valley Elementary on one or both program days (greater need on Wednesdays). The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:15 pm to 3:45 pm.

With your support, 15 girls will grow their confidence, learn to stand up for themselves and others, and realize their voices matter. You don’t even need to like running!

Untied Way: Volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual)
Mar 22 all-day
Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

We really can’t remember a time when we’ve seen the entire community come together like it has over the past week. We are so incredibly honored and humbled to be working alongside each of you as we navigate these difficult times.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is playing a critical role in the COVID-19 community-wide response efforts; serving as the community hub for volunteering around this crisis. We are working daily with partners, government agencies, businesses and organizations, and individuals; identifying community needs and responding through the power of volunteerism.

We’ve set up our online portal to serve as an all-encompassing inventory of community-wide volunteer needs that address relief efforts. We have one simple ask of you today, sign up to receive COVID-19 specific volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual). This unprecedented situation calls for an unprecedented response, sign up today!

To stay up-to-date on the latest COVID-19 news, frequently visit United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s COVID-19 page.

Monday, March 23, 2020
Blood Donations Where Lifesaving Starts
Mar 23 all-day
Blood Connection

It is very important for donors to continue donating in the weeks and months ahead in order to maintain an adequate local blood supply. If you are feeling healthy and well, please make an appointment before donating so we can maintain the proper social distancing. The safety of our donors and staff is our top priority!

Untied Way: Volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual)
Mar 23 all-day
Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

We really can’t remember a time when we’ve seen the entire community come together like it has over the past week. We are so incredibly honored and humbled to be working alongside each of you as we navigate these difficult times.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is playing a critical role in the COVID-19 community-wide response efforts; serving as the community hub for volunteering around this crisis. We are working daily with partners, government agencies, businesses and organizations, and individuals; identifying community needs and responding through the power of volunteerism.

We’ve set up our online portal to serve as an all-encompassing inventory of community-wide volunteer needs that address relief efforts. We have one simple ask of you today, sign up to receive COVID-19 specific volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual). This unprecedented situation calls for an unprecedented response, sign up today!

To stay up-to-date on the latest COVID-19 news, frequently visit United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s COVID-19 page.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020
Blood Donations Where Lifesaving Starts
Mar 24 all-day
Blood Connection

It is very important for donors to continue donating in the weeks and months ahead in order to maintain an adequate local blood supply. If you are feeling healthy and well, please make an appointment before donating so we can maintain the proper social distancing. The safety of our donors and staff is our top priority!

Untied Way: Volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual)
Mar 24 all-day
Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

We really can’t remember a time when we’ve seen the entire community come together like it has over the past week. We are so incredibly honored and humbled to be working alongside each of you as we navigate these difficult times.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is playing a critical role in the COVID-19 community-wide response efforts; serving as the community hub for volunteering around this crisis. We are working daily with partners, government agencies, businesses and organizations, and individuals; identifying community needs and responding through the power of volunteerism.

We’ve set up our online portal to serve as an all-encompassing inventory of community-wide volunteer needs that address relief efforts. We have one simple ask of you today, sign up to receive COVID-19 specific volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual). This unprecedented situation calls for an unprecedented response, sign up today!

To stay up-to-date on the latest COVID-19 news, frequently visit United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s COVID-19 page.

Awakening Support Group
Mar 24 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism

This group is dedicated to the growing number of people interested in Awakening to their True Nature. We explore the experience of simply Being through:

| Self-Inquiry | Presence | Surrender | Gratitude | Meditation |

• Transcend egoic mind patterns
• See the gift in challenging situations
• Live your Life’s Purpose
• Find lasting Inner Peace

Group meetings consist of Meditation, Video Satsang (watching videos of spiritual teachers) and a Sharing Circle (optional).

Donations of any amount are welcomed. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. (Donate online at https://tinyurl.com/awakeningsupport)

About the Facilitator:

Trey Carland, author of “A Seeker’s Guide to Inner Peace: Notes to Self,” has been hosting Awakening group meetings since 2007. “My passion is sharing the gift of Awakening with the World.”

Comments:

“Trey Carland embodies perfectly the quote, “still waters run deep.” I happened upon Trey several years ago through his spiritual awakening group. From this experience, Trey appeared to me as a wise Sage. Trey is accepting and patient with people. His demeanor is calm and loving. For me, it was evident that the stillness of Trey’s soul, is like a shimmering river that runs endlessly, with much depth. With celebration, I am blessed for having him as a friend. ” ~ John K.

(Read More at http://www.treycarland.com)

Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Blood Donations Where Lifesaving Starts
Mar 25 all-day
Blood Connection

It is very important for donors to continue donating in the weeks and months ahead in order to maintain an adequate local blood supply. If you are feeling healthy and well, please make an appointment before donating so we can maintain the proper social distancing. The safety of our donors and staff is our top priority!

Untied Way: Volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual)
Mar 25 all-day
Hands On Asheville-Buncombe

We really can’t remember a time when we’ve seen the entire community come together like it has over the past week. We are so incredibly honored and humbled to be working alongside each of you as we navigate these difficult times.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe is playing a critical role in the COVID-19 community-wide response efforts; serving as the community hub for volunteering around this crisis. We are working daily with partners, government agencies, businesses and organizations, and individuals; identifying community needs and responding through the power of volunteerism.

We’ve set up our online portal to serve as an all-encompassing inventory of community-wide volunteer needs that address relief efforts. We have one simple ask of you today, sign up to receive COVID-19 specific volunteer opportunities (both in-person and virtual). This unprecedented situation calls for an unprecedented response, sign up today!

To stay up-to-date on the latest COVID-19 news, frequently visit United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s COVID-19 page.

“Faith, Power, and Privilege” – Talk by Yavilah McCoy, Leader for Equity and Inclusion of Jewish People of Color
Mar 25 @ 7:00 pm
UNC Asheville Highsmith Student Union, Blue Ridge Room

Yavilah McCoy, who founded Ayecha, an organization dedicated to Jewish people of color, and who continues work on equity and inclusion as CEO of Dimensions Educational Consulting, will present a talk, “Faith, Power, and Privilege,” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, in UNC Asheville’s Highsmith Student Union, Blue Ridge Room. This event, sponsored by the University’s Center for Jewish Studies, and Department of Religious Studies, along with Carolina Jews for Justice, is free and open to everyone.

A teacher, writer, editor and diversity consultant, McCoy was born and raised in an orthodox Jewish home in Brooklyn, N.Y. Her grandparents converted to Judaism, and she continues the traditions handed to her over three generations as part of her African American Jewish family. In her talk, McCoy will discuss the practice of holding multiple identities within efforts to build greater equity and justice in the changing political and social climate of 2020. She will address the challenges of diversity and inclusion in religious communities, as well as opportunities that these communities can engage toward becoming deeper allies and stronger advocates in working together toward social justice.

McCoy is a certified trainer for the Anti-Defamation League’s World of Difference Institute, the National Conference for Community and Justice, and the National Coalition Building Institute, and a certified coach for the Auburn Theological Seminary Pastoral Training Program. She also co-authored and performed The Colors of Water, a 2009 theater piece sharing the history of the generations of her family.

McCoy was a leader of the Jewish delegation to the 2017 Women’s March, and two years later, was placed in the spotlight as one of three Jewish leaders added to the Women’s March steering committee after accusations of anti-Semitism had been lodged against march organizers.

“People will need to recover their deepest sense of their humanity in relationships,” she told Jewish Boston about her work in the Women’s March leadership. “All of my work is based in relationship-building. And the first thing I ask people to do is to agree to be proximate to one another.”

She also told Jewish Boston that she takes a similar approach in addressing racism and sexism she has encountered in the Jewish community. “In contrast to demanding that our leaders be denounced for the racism and sexism they have exhibited, I and many other Jewish activists that I respect have figured out strategies to engage in ‘teachable moments’ where leaders can listen, learn and change their behavior in accountability to the people and communities they have been empowered to serve,” said McCoy.