As we step into 2025, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible generosity and support that YOU made possible through WE ARE: Women Entrepreneur Asheville Recovery Endeavor. Thanks to you—our founding donors and raffle ticket purchasers—2024 was an extraordinary year for rebuilding, hope, and empowerment.

Together, we raised over $180,000 last year, which allowed us to award four life-changing grants to women-owned businesses in Western North Carolina:

  • Dr. T MD
  • Children's Castle Childcare
  • Asheville Tea Company
  • Penland & Sons Department Store

And then, something remarkable happened…
At the start of this year, your ongoing belief in WE ARE inspired even more generosity. In January, we received over $100,000 in additional contributions from community-minded companies like Aeroflow, Pinegate Renewables, the Green River Foundation, and several anonymous donors. These funds allowed us to extend our reach and award grants to four more incredible businesses:

  • Deer Valley Athletic Club
  • Smiling Hara Tempeh
  • Montgomery Sky Farms
  • Asheville Print Studio

Your support is not just rebuilding businesses—it’s rebuilding lives and revitalizing our community. From farms and tea companies to daycare centers and local artisans, WE ARE is fostering resilience and hope across Western North Carolina.

MULTIPLY OUR IMPACT

We are thrilled to share some additional exciting news: an anonymous donor has pledged $50,000. To maximize the impact of this donation,  this generous gift is contingent upon our ability to raise a matching $50,000 from other donors. This could be from individuals, businesses, or a combination of both.

With this match, we have the opportunity to support even more women entrepreneurs in rebuilding their dreams and strengthening the heartbeat of Asheville. But we can’t do it without you!

If you or someone you know might be interested in contributing toward this matching opportunity, please email allison@soulku.com.

In lieu of purchasing on our website, you can also write a check to HATCH AVL Foundation.

Mail checks to:
Hatch AVL Foundation
c/o Meg Ragland at Plum Print
45 South French Broad Ave #100
Asheville, NC 28801