Transforming our community through reparative actions.

Jan 30, 2025 - The Presbytery of Western North Carolina unanimously voted to transfer the former West Asheville Presbyterian Church property to RSAA at no cost, marking a historic act of reparations. Once home to Wilson’s Chapel AME Church, the site was lost to systemic racism in the 1920s. RSAA plans to transform the space into a community hub for Black empowerment and justice, with a capital campaign forthcoming to support renovations.

Jan 31, 2025 - The RSAA is hosting its Second Annual Sneaker Gala, building on the success of last year’s event, which raised over $20,000 and brought together more than 100 attendees. This year’s gala aims to further amplify reparative justice initiatives through community engagement, networking, and fundraising. Sponsorships will support innovative programming, equitable hiring, and long-term sustainability. Organizations are invited to join as sponsors to help drive systemic change and promote equity.

May 28, 2025 - RSAA hosted a Media Day at 690 Haywood Road to celebrate a new partnership with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) and honor a major community contribution from the West Asheville Presbyterian Admin Commission (WAPC).

The event marked the official announcement of a long-term recovery partnership between RSAA and MDS to support justice-centered rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Helene. MDS will use the Haywood Road property as a volunteer dormitory and operations base.

In a powerful moment, WAPC shared their intention of donating the facility to RSAA, reinforcing their commitment to community restoration and reparative justice.