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Local voices, fresh updates—straight from your community media team

Discover highlights from JMPRO events this month with interviews, photos and videos! Relive the emotion of the most memorable moments with reporters.

Let's start!

I. Events

1. Come to the massage school in Asheville and take advantage of its low-cost therapeutic services

Hope DeVall, director of the School of Massage in Asheville, spoke with JMPRO about the school's training program and the therapeutic benefits available to the community. In the interview, she noted that students nearing graduation give cheap massages as part of their training.

The process begins with pre-registration by calling (828) 761-1553. Upon arrival, patients can speak with their assigned therapist to customize the experience: massage intensity, room temperature, and lighting level.

DeVall announced plans to include classes in Spanish and add bilingual professionals to better serve the Latino community. Massages not only help reduce daily stress but also contribute to disease prevention and improve overall well-being.

Enjoy this fun tour with our reporter Wendy Reyes through the Massage School facilities at 707 Haywood Rd, Asheville.

2. Education with a Purpose: Kimberly Nava and the Teacher Education Program at UNC Asheville

Dr. Kimberly Nava shared details about her history as an educator with over 19 years of experience and her passion for teaching at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Nava is also an active member of LatinxEd, a group that promotes Latino leadership and participation in higher education.

Estela Ralios and Joaquín Tordoya interviewed Kimberly at UNC-Asheville about the Teacher Licensure Program and its opportunities for aspiring educators in the state. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in a variety of disciplines, such as psychology, biology, or literature, while simultaneously preparing for their teaching license.

Learn more about this meeting and Dr. Nava's life as an assistant professor at Asheville University in this video.

3. Did you know that walking football is beneficial for older adults? Discover Asheville Parks & Recreation's sports program

Asheville Parks & Recreation offers soccer classes for seniors 50 and older to encourage the sport. Ben McKinney, who leads the "walking football" program, says it encourages inclusion and improves health and social connections for adults.

Summer sports activities have ended, but the arrival of fall paves the way for similar upcoming events. Remember that Asheville Parks & Recreation publishes quarterly guides with information on walks, clubs, meetings, and other events.

Walking football is a modified version of soccer that prohibits running and physical contact, focusing on safety. The benefits range from improving mobility, balance, and cardiovascular health to combating isolation and depression.

Learn more about walking football and Ben McKinney in the following interview conducted at Memorial Stadium in Asheville.

4. An afternoon filled with music, dance, and food. The “United Cultures” Festival in Marion

Centro Unido held the “United Cultures Festival 2025” in Marion on September 13 to honor the community's resilience after Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. The activities included live music, traditional Latin dances, and booths featuring local entrepreneurs.

This festival, with the theme “United After the Hurricane,” lasted approximately five hours. Food stands, crafts, raffles, and guest organizations offered resources and information, as well as shared the joy of the moment.

Marion was again impressed by the performance of "México en el Corazón" and its over 70 guest artists from Guadalajara. A small commemoration or “vigil” was also offered for those affected by last year's storm.

Community reporters joined the festival to gather vibrant stories from the community and artists.

5. Project Access, an innovative solution providing affordable medical care for individuals without health insurance

Project Access is a network of volunteer physicians who help uninsured and low-income patients access comprehensive care. Benefits include preventive screenings, medications, and medical equipment, such as crutches and eyeglasses.

JMPRO reporters spoke with Project Access Director Julie Schneier, who said that enrollment starts with a referral from a primary care physician. After receiving the message, Project Access sends an application to the patient, which must be completed with the documentation described.

Additionally, if you need an interpreter, you can contact the Interpreter Network (WIN) by calling 828-274-0950. The professional can help you schedule the appointment over the phone and attend it in person. Remember that this is not health insurance; however, it is a way we can help members of our community.

If you'd like to learn how to apply for Project Access and what the requirements are, click the following video.

6. Learn about labor rights and access to living wages with Just Economics

Just Economics Executive Director Vicki Meath and Ariana "Seimy" Mendoza spoke with JMPRO reporters about access to fair wages, as well as access to housing and healthcare in the state. The interview touched on other related topics, such as benefits and labor rights.

They mentioned the free "Voices for Economic Justice" program, available until November 6, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The goal is to teach the community about economic education and strengthen leadership skills. If you would like to participate, please call (828) 280-8628 for more information.

Meath explains that they are seeking dialogue with companies to establish fair pay for workers. There is a directory of certified companies that have completed this task on the Just Economics website.

To learn more about the organization's work and the "Voices" program, click the video below.

7. Learn about the work of doulas at Sistas Caring 4 Sistas to support pregnant women

Sistas Caring 4 Sistas is a Western North Carolina organization offering doula services to support families from preconception to parenthood. A doula is a trained expert who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after delivery.

Kahlani Jackson, the doula program manager, says support is offered to around 19 counties, providing education and comfort techniques like exercises, movements, and massage for couples.The organization's primary goal is to reduce stress and increase relaxation during pregnancy.

In January, a community doula training program will be offered for bilingual Latinas who wish to become doulas.

8. Visit the Canton Library and enjoy a day of reading with friends and family.

The library at 11 Pennsylvania Avenue in Canton is a perfect place to enjoy reading with friends and family. The community has access to many resources, including books, audiobooks, DVDs, computers, graphic novels, and manga for youth.

The calendar features monthly activities like youth chess tournaments, reading groups, creative writing clubs, Lego building, and more. Canton is a public library belonging to Haywood County.

Dennin Holmes Mora, library assistant, explains that online courses are offered in Canton for learning English and computer skills. You can obtain a library card that provides access to books, movies, and the Zoom Pass program for free entry to select museums and zoos.

To learn more about the library and its facilities, watch this video interview with branch manager Jennifer Stuart.

9. IAM provides free food supplies, clothing, and medications to families in Henderson County.

Interfaith Assistance Ministry (IAM) is based in Hendersonville and assists those in crisis with food, hygiene items, clothing, and financial help.

This organization provides assistance to more than half of Henderson's Latino community, helping 100 to 150 families every day through its financial services. According to Executive Director Elizabeth Moss, part of the process involves conducting interviews with families to identify their needs.

For more than eight years, Elizabeth has supported families dealing with financial challenges, particularly with rent and utility bills. After a successful investigative journalism career in Miami and San Francisco, she relocated to North Carolina with her husband. She then became a journalism professor at UNCA before leading the organization.

II. Publications of the month

Salud y Bienestar

Discover how Project Access helps those without health insurance, get affordable massages from the WNC Massage School, and see how Bounty & Soul tackles food insecurity. Don't forget to explore the Doula program thanks to Sistas Caring 4 Sistas among other stories. Read the post here.

Nuestras Historias

Learn how to get fair wages and employee benefits at Just Economics, sign up for free photography classes with JMPRO, participate in community events, enjoy readings at the Canton Library, and explore many interesting stories.

You can read our publication here.

III. Community Reporters

Free photography classes in your neighborhood thanks to JMPRO

JMPRO offers free basic photography courses in Asheville, supplying all equipment and graphic materials for students’ learning.

The initiative aims to empower and strengthen the community and foster creativity and expression through photography. If you would like more information about the classes, please send a WhatsApp message to (828) 785-9206 or through JMPRO's social media channels. Remember, these classes are designed for those with little or no knowledge of photography.

We share some photographs of the workshops we have offered this month.

JMPRO Community Media Highlights!- SEPTEMBER/2025 Click here for an update from JMPRO Community Media!

Connecting Community Stories & Resources for Better Health — September Edition

Check out some of our September highlights with interviews, photos and videos from your community reporters at JMPRO Community Media!

Let's get started!

I. Events

1. West Asheville Massage Students Expand Access to Affordable Therapy

Hope DeVall, director of the School of Massage in Asheville, spoke with JMPRO about the school's training program and the therapeutic benefits available to the community. In the interview, she noted that as the school's students approach graduation, they must provide affordable massages as part of their training.

The process begins with pre-registration by calling (828) 761-1553. Upon arrival, community members can speak with their assigned therapist to customize the experience: massage intensity, room temperature, and lighting level.

While massages are available to all community members, DeVall announced plans to expand the student population by offering classes in Spanish that add bilingual professionals who can better serve our Latino community. Massages not only help reduce daily stress but also support disease prevention and overall well-being.

Enjoy this tour through the Massage School facilities at 707 Haywood Rd in west Asheville with our reporter Wendy Reyes.

2. Education with a Purpose: Kimberly Nava and the Teacher Education Program at UNC Asheville

Dr. Kimberly Nava shared with JMPRO some of her history as an educator with over 19 years of experience and ongoing passion for teaching at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Nava is also an active member of LatinxEd, a group that promotes Latino leadership and participation in higher education.

Estela Ralios and Joaquín Tordoya interviewed Kimberly at UNC-Asheville about the Teacher Licensure Program and its opportunities for aspiring educators in the state. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in a variety of disciplines, such as psychology, biology, or literature, while simultaneously preparing for their teaching license.

Learn more about this meeting and Dr. Nava's life as an assistant professor at UNCA in our video.

3. Step Into Wellness: How 'Walking Football' Supports Healthy Aging in Asheville

Asheville Parks & Recreation offers soccer classes for seniors 50 and older to encourage healthy living. Ben McKinney, who leads the 'walking football' program, says it encourages inclusion and improves health and social connections for adults.

While summer has ended, the arrival of fall paves the way for similar upcoming activities. Asheville Parks & Recreation publishes quarterly guides with information on walks, clubs, meetings, and other events that provide opportunities for community members to support their health and wellbeing.

'Walking football' is a modified version of soccer that prohibits running and physical contact, focusing on the safety of the players. The benefits range from improving mobility, balance, and cardiovascular health to combating isolation and depression.

Learn more about walking football and Ben McKinney in the following interview conducted at Memorial Stadium in Asheville.

4. United After the Hurricane: A Celebration of Culture and Ongoing Recovery

On September 13, Centro Unido hosted the “United Cultures Festival 2025” in Marion to honor the resilience of Western North Carolina communities following the impact of Hurricane Helene. The event brought people together through live music, traditional Latin dances, and booths showcasing local entrepreneurs and culture.

With the theme “United After the Hurricane,” the five-hour festival was a vibrant celebration of strength and community spirit. Attendees enjoyed food, artisan crafts, raffles, and resources provided by local organizations—all while sharing in the joy of recovery and connection.

A highlight of the day was the return of "México en el Corazón," whose stunning performance featured over 70 guest artists from Guadalajara, captivating the Marion audience once again.

The festival also included a moment of reflection: a small vigil was held in honor of those affected by last year's storm—reminding everyone of the shared journey through hardship and healing.

Community reporters joined the festival to gather stories from the community and participating artists.

5. Project Access: Free Healthcare Support for Uninsured Community Members

Project Access is a network of volunteer physicians providing free, comprehensive healthcare to uninsured and low-income patients in our region. Services may include preventive screenings, medications, and essential medical equipment like crutches and eyeglasses.

JMPRO reporters spoke with Julie Schneier, Director of Project Access, who explained that the enrollment process begins with a referral from a primary care provider. Once the referral is received, Project Access sends the patient an application, which must be completed along with the appropriate documentation.

For community members who need help with language access, the Western Interpreter Network (WIN) at 828-274-0950 is available to bridge that gap. A professional interpreter can assist with scheduling appointments by phone and can also attend the visit with community members in person.

Keep in mind: Project Access is not health insurance, but it’s a valuable resource for accessing medical care—another way we support one another as a community.

If you'd like to learn how to apply for Project Access and what the requirements are, click the following video.

6. ‘Voices for Economic Justice’ Launches This Month

Just Economics Executive Director Vicki Meath and Ariana “Seimy” Mendoza spoke with JMPRO reporters about critical issues affecting our community—fair wages, housing, and healthcare access across the state. Their conversation also covered important topics like labor rights and employee benefits.

They highlighted the free “Voices for Economic Justice” program, running through November 6, every Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This program aims to educate the community on economic issues while building leadership skills. If you’re interested in participating, call (828) 280-8628 for more details.

Meath emphasized that Just Economics is seeking dialogue with companies to promote fair pay for workers. A directory of certified companies committed to fair wages is available on the Just Economics website.

To learn more about the organization's work and the "Voices" program, click the video below.

7. Guiding the Journey: Pregnancy Support Across 19 Counties

Sistas Caring 4 Sistas is a Western North Carolina organization dedicated to supporting families from preconception through parenthood, in part by offering professional doula services. A doula is a trained expert who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

Kahlani Jackson, the doula program manager, shares that their services extend across 19 counties, offering education and comfort techniques such as exercises, movement, and massage that expecting parents can use on their journey. The organization’s primary goal is to reduce stress and promote relaxation throughout pregnancy, helping families feel empowered and supported.

In January, a community doula training program will be offered for bilingual Latinas who wish to become doulas.

8. A Place to Learn, Play, and Grow: Inside the Canton Library

The Canton Library at 11 Pennsylvania Avenue is an inviting space to enjoy reading and activities with friends and family. The community has access to a wide variety of resources, including books, audiobooks, DVDs, computers, graphic novels, and manga for youth.

The library’s calendar features monthly events such as youth chess tournaments, reading groups, creative writing clubs, Lego building sessions, and much more. As part of the Haywood County Public Library system, Canton offers a landing space and wealth of resources to the community.

Library assistant Dennin Holmes Mora shares that Canton also provides online courses for learning English and improving computer skills. Residents can obtain a library card granting free access to books, movies, and the Zoom Pass program, which offers complimentary entry to select museums and zoos.

To learn more about the library and its facilities, watch this video interview with branch manager Jennifer Stuart.

9. IAM’s Vision of Hope and Stability

Interfaith Assistance Ministry (IAM), based in Hendersonville, supports individuals and families in crisis by providing food, hygiene items, clothing, and financial assistance.

The organization plays a vital role in the community, serving over half of Henderson County’s Latino population and assisting 100 to 150 families each day through its financial services. According to Executive Director Elizabeth Moss, each case begins with an interview to better understand a family’s specific needs.

For more than eight years, Elizabeth has helped local families facing financial hardship—especially with rent and utility assistance. Before joining IAM, she had a successful career in investigative journalism in Miami and San Francisco, later moving to North Carolina with her husband. She went on to teach journalism at UNC Asheville before stepping into her current leadership role at IAM.

II. Publications of the month

Salud y Bienestar

Discover how Project Access helps those without health insurance, get affordable massages from the WNC Massage School, and see how Bounty & Soul tackles food insecurity. Don't forget to explore the Doula program thanks to Sistas Caring 4 Sistas among other stories. Read the post here.

Nuestras Historias

Learn how to get fair wages and employee benefits at Just Economics, sign up for free photography classes with JMPRO, participate in community events, enjoy readings at the Canton Library, and explore many interesting stories.

You can read our publication here.

III. Community Reporters

Free photography classes in your neighborhood thanks to JMPRO

JMPRO offers free basic photography courses in Asheville, supplying all equipment and graphic materials for students’ learning.

The initiative aims to empower and strengthen the community and foster creativity and expression through photography. If you would like more information about the classes, please send a WhatsApp message to (828) 785-9206 or through JMPRO's social media channels. Remember, these classes are designed for those with little or no knowledge of photography.

We share some photographs of the workshops we have offered this month.

JMPRO Community Media Highlights!- SEPTEMBER 2025 Click here for an update from JMPRO Community Media!