At United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, we believe meaningful change begins with a clear understanding of our purpose, our values, and how we work alongside others to build a stronger community.  That’s why we’ve taken the time to define what drives us. These phrases aren’t just statements—they’re the foundation of every decision we make, every partnership we form, and every action we take to support the people of Buncombe County.

VISION: A united and resilient community where everyone belongs and everyone thrives.

MISSION: We bring people, partners, and resources together to improve lives and tackle our community’s toughest challenges. 

IMPACT AREAS: Youth Opportunity |  Community Resiliency

For over a decade, United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County (UWABC) has focused on ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive. Through Community Schools and United for Youth (U4Y), we connect people, organizations, and resources to achieve our shared Bold Community Goal:
 ALL Asheville City and Buncombe County students graduate from high school ready and fully prepared to pursue their goals and dreams.

How We Create Youth Opportunity

• Connecting Schools and Communities: With the aid of our valued partners, our nine Community Schools serve as neighborhood hubs of service, connecting students, families, and school staff to vital resources, enrichment programs, and one another.
• Empowering Through Collaboration: As the backbone organization for U4Y, UWABC unites schools, local government, nonprofits, and youth leaders around a shared vision of educational success.
• Centering Caring, Trusted, and Engaged Adults: Together with community partners, we ensure every young person is supported by adults who listen, believe in them, and help them grow — from early learning through graduation and beyond.
• Driving Systemic Change: We build partnerships, monitor progress, and advocate for policies that eliminate barriers to learning, such as hunger, homelessness, and limited healthcare access, all of which impact student achievement.
• Mobilizing a Community of Opportunity: By bringing together funding, data, and community efforts, we aim to ensure that opportunity, not circumstance, shapes a student’s future.

Every student deserves a community that believes in their potential. By strengthening schools, supporting families, and working together, UWABC and our partners are building a future where every student in Asheville and Buncombe County can learn, grow, and succeed, with no exceptions. Learn more about our two-pronged strategy to help the next generation realize their goals and dreams by clicking the buttons below. 

United for Youth Block Party | United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County

Asheville Area Focus is sponsored by United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County |