Community Baby Shower and Career Day will bring free supplies, career opportunities, training resources, and other support directly to residents

The Housing Authority of the City of Asheville (HACA) will host two free events for residents in October, offering residents practical support ranging from baby essentials to career and training opportunities.

HACA will host a Community Baby Shower on Saturday, Oct. 3, followed by Career Day on Thursday, Oct. 15. The events will take place at the Arthur R. Edington Education & Career Center, located at 133 Livingston St. in Asheville.

While the events meet different needs, both are part of HACA’s effort to make assistance more accessible by bringing resources directly into the communities it serves.

“We are excited to connect residents to a wide range of partners,” said Catherine Mencher, Director of Private and Public Partnerships for HACA. “Whether someone needs diapers for a new baby, help with a resume, or guidance on going back to school, we’re bringing those resources together in one place.”

Supporting New and Expectant Parents

The Community Baby Shower will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 2–5 p.m. Parents who live in HACA communities can pick up free baby essentials, including diapers, wipes, clothing, and other supplies.

HACA is hosting the event with support from AmeriHealth Caritas North Carolina, Asheville Dream Center, Baby2Baby, HealthyBlue, and Sistas Caring 4 Sistas.

The event is intended to ease some of the immediate costs that come with welcoming a baby while also helping families learn about organizations and services available in the Asheville area.

“Having a baby is joyful, but it can also be overwhelming and expensive,” Mencher said. “We want families to feel supported, take home some meaningful baby supplies, and to know there are people in this community ready to help.”

Opening Doors to Work, Education, and Service

Later in the month, HACA will host a Career Day on Thursday, Oct. 15, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. The event is designed for residents across a range of ages and experience levels, including those entering the workforce, considering a career change, returning to work after time away, or exploring education and volunteer service.

Local employers, training providers, educational institutions, military recruiters, volunteer organizations, and community partners will be available to speak directly with residents. Participating organizations will range from Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Asheville Hotel Group to Literacy Together and Healthy Blue.

Residents can also receive help creating or updating a resume, preparing for an interview, strengthening public-speaking skills, finding volunteer opportunities, returning to school, and learning how to dress for the workplace. The event will also connect attendees with information about childcare assistance, free financial coaching, adult education, high school equivalency programs, and employment training.

“Career development is not one-size-fits-all,” Mencher said. “One resident may be ready to meet an employer that day, while another needs help finishing a high school credential, finding childcare, or building confidence before an interview. All of those steps matter.”