**Epic Raffle**
Even though we cannot party together, we pulled together an amazing raffle basket as a way to say THANK YOU to all who donate to any of the three nonprofits above in 2020. To enter, simply make a donation of any amount to one of the three nonprofits listed above. If you have already donated to these groups in 2020, fear not – we will enter you in the raffle, too! The winner will be contacted in January 2021.
Way back in March 2020, we selected the following nonprofits. Though we were unable to support them as we typically do (through heartfelt toasts and lively gatherings), we wanted to highlight them to you and share some news related to each one.
NC Glass Center
The NC Glass Center (NCGC) is dedicated to education, exploration, and collaboration in all forms of glass. If you are not familiar with this group, check out its website. Despite the impacts of the pandemic, NCGC has been able to adjust and maintain its outreach programs (socially-distanced, in-person programing for youth and veterans). Also, starting in December 2020, NCGC launched its Cup of the Month subscription.
How to Help:
Donate to NCGC via its website
Visit the NCGC Gallery or make a purchase from its online shop (shop)!
Green Built Alliance – Blue Horizons Projects
Blue Horizons Project (BHP) was formed through the former Energy Innovation Task Force (EITF), a working group convened in April 2016 by the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, and Duke Energy. BHP was conceived to help achieve specific goals by promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy options throughout the region. BHP has a new Community Council seated and the meetings are open to the public.
How to Help:
Support BHP’s Energy Savers Network (free, income-qualified winterization program)
Donate to Green Built Alliance via Mountain Xpress Give!Local (Gift provided for donations over $50!).
Children First/ Communities in Schools of Buncombe County
Children First/Communities in Schools (CIS) of Buncombe County serves the community through direct services, education, and advocacy for family-friendly policies. Support from people in our community has made it possible for this group to serve students and families during this challenging year. This group has seen a greater need than ever before at the Family Resource Center at Emma Elementary, where curbside food box pick-up, clothing, school supplies, emergency financial assistance for rent and utility payments, and other supports are offered. Our Student Support Specialists work in five local schools and are currently serving students virtually and in-person, with proper health and safety measures in place.
How to Help:
Donate to Children First/ CIS via its PayPal link.
Donate via Mountain Xpress Give!Local (Publix is matching donations up to $3,000!)
We are still putting the finishing touches on the basket, but so far items include (value: $400+):
Strada (gift card)
Buxton Hall BBQ (gift card)
The Admiral (gift card)
Smoky Park Supper Club (gift card)
Poppy Popcorn
Gift items from Duncan & York
Sovereign Remedies (gift card)
Spicewalla Spice Set
Coca-Cola Gift Basket
French Broad Chocolate Lounge (gift card & chocolate)
Orange Peel (gift card)
Coach purses (two!)
ENTER NOW BY DONATING TO: