Last Updated on May 16, 2023
When everyone plays on the same field, there’s no end to the possibilities available for that community. It’s only when a level playing field is open to some and not others that a community begins to fail.
Today, we shine a spotlight on a local organization that works to provide equity to all in the community, regardless of background. From their work in vaccine equity, to health and housing equity, and beyond, we invite you to learn more about BeLoved Asheville and how you can help them meet their mission.
What is BeLoved Asheville?
BeLoved Asheville brings together people from all walks of life to create innovative solutions to some of the toughest challenges in Asheville and across Western North Carolina. Their various projects tackle issues around racism and systemic inequities, housing and food insecurity, poverty, and inequities in healthcare. And ultimately, the goal is to cultivate a transformational way of life rooted in community, creativity, and equity.
What services do they offer?
The projects at BeLoved Asheville are designed to create home, health, equity, and opportunity for all. Their current projects include:
BeLoved Village – A village of 12 micro-homes of 440–700 square feet, built chiefly with donated labor and materials. The first model home was erected in the fall of 2020. Once completed, the homes will go to neighbors who’ve struggled with housing insecurity.
Asheville in Black – An initiative to shed light on noteworthy stories, the excellent work, and leadership of Black people in Asheville. Through community relationships and connection to resources, this project focuses on how amazing people “show up” in community.
Racial Healing & Cultural Organizing – Work that includes education, cultural gatherings, children’s programs, neighborhood fiestas, and community events. The purpose of these efforts is to bring people together in a sense of collective belonging.
Asheville En Espanol – A network of Latinx leaders working together to connect Latinx people and make visible their lives and contributions to our community. By working as change agents through cultural celebrations and shared resources, they strengthen communities, share gifts, and support equitable access.
Street Medics Outreach – Since 2017, these trained “first, first responders” provide on-the-spot assessment and first aid on the streets. Street and mobile outreach happen weekly, as well as during multiple Health Fairs throughout the year.
Food Access & Free Farmers Markets – BeLoved understands that community is built around a table and with each other. Through sharing, we all are fed and connected. Their Street Pantry Program is on the frontlines, making sure those on the streets have access to necessities.
How can I support BeLoved Asheville?
It takes a community to make a community. As a nonprofit, BeLoved depends on volunteers and donations to continue to build community and live out their mission. BeLoved needs volunteers for everything from construction help at BeLoved Village to bilingual services on the streets to COVID relief. And donations are needed for their various projects, as well as initiatives mentioned above.
Raise a Home Auction, April 30, 2022
Reserve your tickets to this year’s charitable event du jour. BeLoved’s Raise a Home Auction will feature both a live and a silent auction to support BeLoved Village. This innovative solution to affordable housing helps residents at approximately 30% area median income (AMI) build wealth and put down roots. That’s a wonderful resource much needed in the city with the highest rental rates in the state. With 75% funding in place for this $1.2 million project, BeLoved is hoping their RAH Auction will help push their funding over the top!
In addition to supporting an amazing cause, attendees of the RAH Auction can expect to enjoy a live jazz band, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a wine and beer bar.
Learn more and buy tickets at BeLovedRAHAuction.org.
Can’t attend the Raise a Home Auction? Show your support and make a donation today on the auction site!
Get more by giving back
At Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity and means to Live Abundantly in WNC. Donate time and money to an organization like BeLoved Asheville that means something to you. Reach out to BeLoved Asheville or contact your Allen Tate/Beverly-Hanks agent to learn about local nonprofits in your community.
BeLoved Asheville
Donation Center: 32 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville
(828) 571-0766
