Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)

• Who can participate in LAS?
  Those who want to learn more about the community and how they can make a difference should participate. We have no age requirements but do meet one day a week for eight weeks so participants are usually partially or fully retired. Sometimes new residents participate to “jump start” their understanding of the community and meeting others. Sometimes long-time residents participate to see the community through new eyes, meet new people, uncover new possibilities for themselves.

• What are the benefits?
  Participants enjoy many benefits including:
  • meeting new people as well as those that make the community work
  • understanding issues of vital concern to Asheville and Buncombe County
  • uncovering community needs needing
  • learning together with new friends.

• Where are LAS session held?
  The orientation is on the UNCA campus whereas subsequent sessions are held in location throughout the community. The location always connects with the topic of the day; a session on agribusiness might be in a tobacco barn while a session on the justice system might be in a jail or courthouse.

• Can I participate if I have some physical limitations?
  We try to accommodate individual differences within the constraints of a group activity. Some locations have stairs or steps. We tour some facilities. Call Denise Snodgrass (retired), director (251-6188), to discuss individual requirements.

• Is financial assistance available?
  We keep the cost affordable for everyone (53 hours of program for $210 is a bargain at less than $4/hour). We have some limited scholarship funds available on request.

• Who plans the program?
  Graduates of the program work as a Leadership Team with the director to plan the program for each topic day. Why do former participants recommend LAS so highly? Because LAS has made a difference in their lives, LAS graduates hope others can share a similar experience. Here’s what some LAS XIII graduates said:

“One of the most enjoyable things I have been a part of since moving here six years ago.” — Bette Walburgh

“LAS has given me added respect and admiration for this community and its people.” — Mimi Warren

“This program opened doors for me that I didn’t know existed. It will take time for me to process the extent of the experience. My friends in other cities are envious as a result of my sharing the experience of LAS.” — Liz Pritchard

“Now I feel I have truly become a part of our community.” — David Kwo

“LAS increased my knowledge of options for involvement in the community.” — Katherine Armitage

“Getting to know my classmates was a high point for me.” — Jack Jones