Two Asheville nonprofits are pulling a Freaky Friday switch. This Friday, Sept. 22, leadership staff and board members from Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity and MANNA FoodBank are trading places, each spending the day doing service at the other's organization.

Folks from MANNA FoodBank will help build homes and operate the ReStore, while those from Asheville Habitat will help with warehouse operations in an effort to aid members of our community facing food insecurity. Plus, a group of 10 volunteers that serve at both nonprofits weekly will join in on the special day. The trade is to celebrate both of their milestone anniversaries, honoring 40 years of serving the Asheville area.

A spotlight on service

Since it was founded in 1983, Asheville Habitat has built nearly 400 homes and repaired more than 500 houses, helping people in our community achieve affordable homeownership. Looking to get involved with the cause yourself? Volunteer opportunities are available with Asheville Habitat's construction, home repair, and deconstruction teams — plus, you can lend your skills at the ReStore. If you aren't able to volunteer, you can explore options to donate, advocate smart housing policies, or sponsor a home.

Dedicated volunteers unite to help end hunger in WNC. | Photo via MANNA FoodBank

Over the last four decades, MANNA FoodBank has provided more than 300 million pounds of food to 16 WNC counties, including the Qualla Boundary. Beyond food distribution, the nonprofit also helps those in need of food access with the Feeding Children program and MANNA Food Helpline, providing support to people signing up for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). September is Hunger Action Month, so now is the perfect time to get involved. Check out the steps to become a volunteer at the warehouse or make a donation.

Tickets are now on sale for MANNA's 22nd Annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on Monday, Oct. 23, with proceeds benefiting its food distribution programs. Choose a bowl handcrafted by local potters and enjoy a meal of soup, bread, and dessert — the bowl serves as a keepsake to remind you of those across WNC struggling with food insecurity.