Current Happenings
Inspire, Empower, and Connect
Join Us For Our Open House!
November 14, 2023
6pm
First Presbyterian Church
46 Presbyterian Dr, Sylva, NC 28779
Learn about Circles of Jackson County
Discover how you can make a difference as an Ally or Volunteer
Meet current volunteers and Circle Leaders
Explore the impact of our community initiatives
Refreshments and light snacks will be provided
Please Dine With Us By Ann Melton
The first Tuesday of every month at 11:30 in the Mission and Fellowship Center of First Baptist Church you are invited to Dining for Jackson, to dine with a wonderful group of compassionate caring individuals who are working to support the amazing non-profits of Jackson County. Come and bring a covered dish and give what you would pay if you ate at a restaurant for lunch.
Each month a different non-profit will be featured and those attending will learn more about that organization – their goals and methods to reach those in great need in our community.
The non-profits shown in alphabetical order are: AWAKE, Center for Domestic Peace, Circles of Jackson, Equinox Ranch, Full Spectrum Farm, Habitat for Humanity, Hands on Jackson, Meals on Wheels, Rolling start, the Community Table, and United Christian Ministry.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all the folks who came in September and October. The fellowship was wonderful and the food great. But what was really special was that we were able to give United Christian Ministry well over a thousand dollars and the Center for Domestic Peace almost a thousand.
These non-profits are our heroes as they work tirelessly to help those in need in our county. In September we learned how United Christian Ministry provides food, and help with rent, water bills, and power bills, as well as gas for the car.
In October, Wes Myers with the Center for Domestic Peace gave a wonderful presentation to help us understand about their 24/7 Safeline (828-586-1237), their work with rape crisis victims, labor trafficking and sex trafficking victims, their emergency shelter, the court advocacy program, counseling referrals, and prevention and education programs for middle school and high school students as well as their work at Western Carolina University. We were told the importance of listening to folks and encouraging them to contact the Center if they are experiencing problems in their life.
Our world is changing and becoming more complicated and with that comes new problems but also new opportunities to help those around us.
At our next meeting on November 7, we will have a presentation by Dawn Neatherly, the Director of Circles of Jackson County and Rachel Byrd, the Client Services Coordinator. We will learn about the work they do and how we can be of help to them in the future. Circles works to help those who are striving to leave the poverty that is holding them back and help them to find good jobs and safe housing.
Generational poverty is prevalent in our county and we desperately want to help those folks to break the chains that are keeping them from living a better life.
So please consider joining us on November 7 or any first Tuesday of any month. If you are a pastor or business person, please come have lunch with us (don’t worry about bringing a covered dish) and hear the guest speaker for that day. We are right in town on Main Street. We are close enough for you to come during your lunch break and help us work to keep these non-profits working to meet the needs of so many in our county.
November is the month in which we give thinks for all our blessings. It is also a great time to give thanks for all the folks that volunteer their time and those who give so generously financially to keep these non-profits going.
So, at lunch time on November 7, remember us and come join us for lunch. You will be blessed.
Cora Haste Writes About the Circles Music Fest
The McGuire Estate in downtown Sylva came to life for the Circles Music Fest on Thursday night, Sept. 21. This unique fundraising event featured a silent auction, local musicians, food, and community fellowship. The event featured a laid-back atmosphere where guests ordered food and drinks. They socialized throughout the venue, enjoying live music and conversation.
There were around 40 people in attendance throughout the evening. Guests paid a $20 cover fee to enter the venue, and all proceeds went towards the Circles of Jackson County program. Circles is funded solely by public donations and grants. Between costs at the gate, the silent auction and other donations, the organization raised around $3000. This exceeded the fundraising goal of $1500. Circles will also receive a percentage of the money made from the McGuire Estate’s food and drink sales. The event aimed to not only raise money for Circles but to get the community involved.
Rachel Byrd recognized the community’s interest in live music and felt it was a great way to bring together local artists and community members to enjoy an entertaining evening for a good cause. The event featured several local artists on three separate stages. The McGuire Estate provided a charming backdrop for an evening of giving back. Mitchell Russotti was one of the artists performing at the music fest. This was an opportunity for him to get exposure as an artist but also support a good cause. “Sometimes people need a leg up in life, and if nobody is there to put out their hand a lot of people will just fall,” said Russotti about the Circles mission. “Any opportunity for non-profits in our community to interact directly, especially downtown, music events, which everyone in Sylva always loves – is great. It’s positive for the community, its positive for Circles obviously,” said Rachel Granning, an attendee to the Circles Music Fest.
Join Us For Circles Music Fest & Silent Auction Fundraiser
Discover an evening of music, food, and community at Circles Music Fest & Silent Auction Fundraiser. On September 21st, immerse yourself in live performances by local artists at The McGuire Estate/The Paper Mill in Downtown Sylva. With delicious food and drinks, live music, and a silent auction, this event offers a unique blend of entertainment and purpose. Proceeds will benefit Circles of Jackson County, allowing you to enjoy a memorable evening while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Farewell from Grace Chastain, former intern and Media Specialist
Grace Chastain, our former intern and current Media Specialist, is wrapping up her time at Circles this summer. Soon, she’ll be moving back home with her family, and beginning a graduate school program where she’ll be earning her Masters in Publishing degree from the George Washington University. Grace has always loved books and stories, and is thrilled to be taking steps to following a career where her passions lie.
“Circles not only provided learning experiences for me through an internship and a job, but provided a community where I felt cared for. While I’ve loved my time with Circles and the people I’ve worked with, I’m so excited to begin this new chapter. Circles of Jackson County will always hold a special place in my life, and I plan to make visits to Circles whenever possible!” - Grace
Circles USA blog featuring Circles of Jackson County members!
Recently, our very own Mary Anne and Evalee were featured in a blog article through Circles USA, follow this link to check it out! Congrats Mary Anne and Evalee!
Circle Leader Graduates with a GED!
Congratulations to Circle Leader Calbert on completing his GED! Calvin and his wife Arlene are both graduates of our program. We are very proud of his accomplishment.
We are back to meeting in person!
Meetings are open to the public; you don’t have to be a member of Circles to attend!
A free meal and childcare are provided. Additionally, we often offer educational programming after the meal.
First Presbyterian Church, 46 Presbyterian Drive, Sylva, NC, 28779
Every Tuesday at 6:00 p.m.
We often attend events at Western Carolina University and Southwestern Community College.
We love to chat with students and spread the word about Circles!
We visit classes, attend events, and table at fairs.
Feel free to invite us to your schools and events!
