REACH, the Haywood County nonprofit whose mission is to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, recently moved into the house formerly occupied by KARE, the organization dedicated to helping child victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

The following articles highlight the work being done locally to help prevent domestic violence and sexual assault in Haywood County and the surrounding area:

As Sexual Assault Awareness Month comes to a close, Haywood County is witnessing a powerful moment of continuity, collaboration and commitment to ending violence. 

On April 27, REACH of Haywood County officially purchased the longtime home of KARE at 1159 North Main Street — a transition that reflects far more than a change in ownership. It is a passing of purpose, a shared mission and a promise that survivors of sexual violence will never be left behind. 

It’s been over a year and a half since the hollow ping of softball bats has rung out over Waynesville’s Dutch Fisher Field, but on April 13, teams again enjoyed the chance to kick up some dust on their favorite diamond. 

When Hurricane Helene decimated the area in September 2024, many community institutions lost so much. Mountaineer Little League lost two fields, including Dutch Fisher.

Smoky Mountain High School baseball team held a special “Youth Night” Thursday night to give the kids a wonderful experience with the varsity players.

Little League and youth players enjoyed an on-field experience at the Smoky Mountain baseball field just prior to the game between the Smoky Mountain Mustangs and the Tuscola Mountaineers. 

When I was young, there were a handful of future professions that my friends and I aspired to be — doctor, nurse, teacher, actor, writer, artist, farmer, lawyer, journalist, astronaut, president, model, fashion designer, rockstar and famous athlete, among others. Personally, I vacillated among several of these through the years, until I ultimately became a teacher then a writer. 

Lake Junaluska is now offering a new summer swim voucher instead of its traditional Summer Activity Pass to improve swimmers’ experience and value. The new vouchers — similar to a punch pass — can be purchased in increments of 10 to 50 visits, with unused visits rolling over to the next year.

Single day passes can still be purchased for $10 each per person. 

The Raccoon Creek Bike Park remains closed to the public as construction continues on the site, which is still an active work zone. Haywood County officials appreciate the community’s patience as work moves forward on the project and is anticipated to open in Summer 2026.

Once complete, the Raccoon Creek Bike Park will be a family-friendly outdoor amenity designed to serve riders of all ages and skill levels. The park will provide a safe and welcoming space for recreation, skill development and community programming. 

The Voices in the Laurel choirs have announced that spring registration is now open and the organization invites new/returning singers from Haywood, Buncombe, Jackson and Swain counties to be part of its 30th season. 

What do rangers eat for lunch? How did the Great Smoky Mountains get their name? Do rangers have to feed the bears? Are there alligators in the park? What about moose? Dolphins? 

“The kids really want to know,” said Scott Young, a volunteer at Great Smoky Mountains National Park who, together with his wife Jayne, has answered every letter kids from across the country send to the national park since they first took on the task in 2021.

Duke Energy Foundation has awarded The North Carolina Arboretum a $25,000 grant as part of its effort to support local conservation efforts and environmental impact programs across North Carolina.