Making an Impact

Written By: Josh Bryson, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation | Issue: April 2024

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation continues its mission to make a positive difference in the community by awarding grants to organizations that focus on addressing critical concerns occurring in health and well-being. The Health Foundation’s grant program recently supported AWAKE (Adults Working and Advocating for Kids’ Empowerment) and Life Challenge of Western North Carolina to help tackle the important issues of child abuse and substance misuse.

AWAKE is a non-profit organization that focuses on advocating for child abuse victims in Jackson County. They provide support and services to both the affected children and their families while also educating the community on identifying signs of abuse and how to report such instances.

One of the most vital aspects of AWAKE’s work is its on-site counseling program, which provides trauma-focused counseling services to children and their families. This counseling is crucial for helping children overcome traumatic experiences and provides them with the support they need to recover. These services are offered at no cost and provide a safe and confidential environment for children to heal from adverse experiences. In addition to counseling, AWAKE offers a range of other services through a multi-disciplinary team approach, including forensic interviewing, child medical evaluations, case management, and community outreach programs.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation also provided a grant to Life Challenge of Western North Carolina, a nonprofit organization that offers behavioral health and addiction services in the western region of North Carolina. Life Challenge focuses on helping women between the ages of 18 and 39 who struggle with life-controlling addiction, including but not limited to substance abuse (drug & alcohol addiction), depression, and eating disorders.

The grant awarded to Life Challenge supports breaking down barriers to addiction treatment by providing women with the tools, skills, and support they need to overcome their challenges and reclaim their lives. Not only does Life Challenge address the mental health challenges associated with substance abuse, but it also helps with associated health disorders. Life Challenge offers a comprehensive approach to recovery, addressing all aspects of a woman’s life to ensure a successful transition into a healthier and more fulfilling future.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation ensures that resources are available to organizations like AWAKE and Life Challenge of Western North Carolina. Support for these organizations will lift the health and well-being of Western North Carolina and create a stronger and healthier community for everyone.

For more information about AWAKE, please visit awakecacenter.org or
call (828) 586-3574.

For more information about Life Challenge of Western North Carolina, please visit lifechallengewnc.org or
call (828) 631-0055.