Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
Come give blood to automatically be entered for a chance to win an exciting trip for you & a guest to Super Bowl LVIII in Vegas! Includes travel, hotel, $1,000 gift card, pre-game activities & more!
For an appointment, please visit RedCrossBlood.org
and use the sponsor code “LandOfTheSky”
Or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

To schedule your lifesaving appointment, click the link below:

https://donate.thebloodconnection.org/…/drive…/221615
Julie Valentine Center
Celebrates a Legacy of Hope:
Featuring
Brooke Shields
Actress, Model, Author and Entrepreneur
Brooke Shields has spent her life in the spotlight. At the young age of 14 she was America’s Sweetheart, but that didn’t spare her the difficulties and insecurities faced by so many. In a conversation that deftly navigates between heartfelt and humorous, Shields talks candidly about her career trajectory and life in the public eye, living with an alcoholic parent and her own experiences as a mother. Audiences will find her story resonates with their own lives as Shields talks openly about finding the mental and emotional strength to live life to the fullest.
Actress, Model, Author and Entrepreneur, Brooke Shields began her accomplished professional career at only eleven months of age when she was selected as the Ivory Snow Baby, and by age 3 was a runway model. At age 9, Shields began her extensive film career when she won her first acting role in Alice Sweet Alice and rapidly gained fame after starring in Louis Malle’s Pretty Baby, the Palme D’or Award winner at the Cannes Film Festival, and the coming-of-age tales Blue Lagoon and Endless Love. As a model, she has graced the covers of hundreds of magazines, most notably Time Magazine as the “Face of the Eighties”. Today, Shields continues her prolific appearances in a broad range of worldwide publications, decades after it all began.
The two-part documentary Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields (which screened to critical acclaim at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival and garnered recent Emmy nominations) premiered on Hulu in April 2023. This galvanizing look at Shields as actor, model, and icon, as she transforms from sexualized young girl to a woman discovering her power, is directed by Lana Wilson ( Miss Americana ). Holding a mirror up to a society that objectifies women and girls, Shield’s story shows the perils and triumphs of gaining agency in a hostile world. The documentary is now ABC News most-watched Hulu debut program ever.
Shields will next be seen in the new romantic comedy, Mother of the Bride for Netflix. The film, directed by Mark Waters ( Mean Girls ) also stars Benjamin Bratt and Miranda Cosgrove. This generational comedy of errors follows Lana (Shields) as her daughter Emma returns from London and announces that she’s getting married the next month. Things become more complicated when Lana learns that the man who stole Emma’s heart is the son of the man who stole hers years ago.
Shields recently unveiled her latest entrepreneurial project “Commence” (formerly “Beginning is Now”), a digital platform that inspires women over 40 to live their best lives with beauty and wellness products developed for the challenges that arise during this period. Rooted in the idea that every second, minute, and day is a chance to start something new, “Commence” celebrates the complexity and diversity of women in this age group from a foundation of true well- being to overcome challenges and adversity and gain the courage to begin again. In addition to community, the site features a mix of content, commerce, and products to promote movement, self-care, rest, nutrition and foster resilience, and happiness.
Shields launched her new podcast, Now What? With Brooke Shields which is focused on asking people about pivotal moments in their lives, now available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.
Shields has also announced an upcoming book, currently untitled, that promises to explore the humility and power of aging. Blending personal narrative and guidebook, Shields hopes to flip our popular beliefs about aging by lifting the voices of experts and everyday women who find this era of life a period for self-discovery, energy and opportunity.
In addition to her film achievements, Shields has maintained a successful and critically acclaimed television career. Her work on The NBC hit Suddenly Susan garnered her a Golden Globe nomination, and she received an American Comedy Award nod for her guest role on Friends. She is the recipient of five People’s Choice Awards, and has previously starred in NBC’s Lipstick Jungle, in addition to guest appearances on a wide range of hit shows including That 70’s Show, Hannah Montana, Two and A Half Men, The Middle, Army Wives, and Murphy Brown. Shields lent her voice to the Adult Swim animated series Mr. Pickles . She also starred in and executive produced Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ mystery movie franchise, Flower Shop Mystery . Shields starred in Law & Order: SVU as a major recurring character in the hit show’s 19th season, and had a reoccurring guest turn as River Fields in the critically acclaimed comedy Jane The Virgin. Shields other films include, Hot Flashes, Daisy Winters, Furry Vengeance, Out of Order, A Castle for Christmas, and Holiday Harmony.
Shields is the best- selling author of several books, including The Brooke Book, On Your Own, and the highly publicized and critically acclaimed Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression. She tapped into her experiences as a mother, successfully branching out into the world of children’s books, penning Welcome To Your World, Baby and It’s the Best Day Ever Dad for Harper Collins. Her latest book There Was a Little Girl: The Real Story of My Mother and Me, quickly became a New York Times best seller.
While attending Princeton University, Shields pursued her love of Theatre as a member of the Princeton Triangle Club. Shortly after graduating with an honors degree in French literature, she made her Broadway debut as Rizzo in the hit musical Grease , for which she earned the Theatre World Award in 1994 for “Outstanding Debut on Broadway.” Shields went on to star in Chicago, Wonderful Town, and Cabaret all of which earned her rave reviews. In 2011, she assumed the iconic role of Morticia Addams alongside Roger Rees in the hit Broadway show, The Addams Family. Shields appeared in the acclaimed ensemble Girls Talk, written and directed by Roger Kumble. She also made her directorial debut with the Hollywood Bowl production of Chicago. She had her critically acclaimed nightclub debut at Feinstein’s at The Loews Regency, performing In My Life, a freewheeling music and stand- up romp through her life’s ups and downs. The show sold out its entire run. She can next be seen at her one-woman show Previously Owned by Brooke Shields, a unique theatrical event where Shields will tell her story in a way only she can, at the Café Carlyle in New York City.
In addition to her professional career, Shields continues to be a strong advocate for women’s issues and keeping the arts alive in schools. She is a happily married mother of two strong and intelligent daughters.
Did you know that just one blood donation can help save up to three lives? The American Red Cross is currently experiencing an emergency blood shortage and reports the nation is facing the lowest number of blood donations in 20 years. If you would like to help, you can donate blood at the upcoming 14th Annual Battle of the Badges, a friendly competition between Buncombe County and Asheville first responders.
Last year, Battle of the Badges was able to collect a total of 160 units of blood that helped change the lives of patients in need. Help us match or exceed that goal during this year’s blood drive.
- Battle of the Badges Blood Drive 2024
- Wednesday, Feb. 21
- 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
- First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St., in Asheville
You can schedule an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org and enter “avlbattleofbadges” or call 800-RED-CROSS
Join Friends and Family as we welcome Chef Michelle Bailey to do her first Pop Up Dinner with us here at The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage on Thursday, February 22, 2024, with cocktails for purchase & snacks by Chef Bailey, starting at 5:30 pm and Dinner at 6:00 pm.
That is right folks we will have Chef Bailey and Jolene present to kick off the AVL Food Series here at The Mule, so get your tickets today before they sell out only 75 tickets are available.
The Evening will start at 5:30 pm with Cocktails for purchase at The Mule and Snacks by Chef Bailey for the guests to enjoy, mingle, and visit. Then at 6:00 pm you will be invited to a plated and served 4 course Dinner by Chef Bailey, with the option to purchase a drink ticket pairing or an NA Pairing if you so select.
Chef Bailey has selected Our Voice to be the Non-Profit for the event and a portion of your ticket sales will go to this non-profit whose mission is : Guiding Principles for Buncombe County’s Anti-Sexual Violence and Anti-Human Trafficking Agency. We are very fortunate to have this non-profit as part of our community here in Asheville with Values we can all believe in.
Chef Michelle Bailey crafts refined wood-fired fare using traditional southern techniques, fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers, makers, and foragers, and live fire.
Bailey has over 20 years of culinary industry experience leading both kitchens and catering companies. She has served as Executive Chef of Smoky Park Supper Club, Highland Lake Inn, The Venue, and The Marketplace. She also cooks at events including the annual Le Pied Du Mont Boucherie Festival at Comfort Farms, Pig Island NYC, and Salt Fire Smoke.
Now leading her own culinary venture, Bailey focuses on tailoring menus for special occasions, from intimate dinners to company retreats, weddings, and other celebrations. She also offers in-home cooking classes for small groups.
Her pride and joy, and often the star of Bailey’s pop-ups and events, is Jolene, her custom-built Santa Maria fire table handbuilt by John Haney of Alveron Barbecue.
Our VOICE takes an intersectional, person-centered approach to support survivors and prevent future acts of sexual violence. We hold ourselves accountable to these core values:
Believe All Survivors
We advocate for the health, safety, and happiness of everyone impacted by sexual violence. Our programs are open to people of all genders, sexual orientations, racial identities, socioeconomic statuses, and abilities. All reports are taken seriously.
Promote Dignity
We honor the inherent dignity and worth of all people and believe that everyone has a right to healing, wholeness, and a life free of sexual violence.
Support Individual Agency
Survivors choose their own path to healing. We provide them with information in a compassionate way without reservation or judgment.
Shift Paradigms
Sexual violence is a societal problem linked to many forms of oppression. Working alongside community partners who align with our values, we will remain at the forefront of advocating for societal change.
Create a Culture of Care and Honesty
Compassion and respect guide our relationships with each other and with community members. We foster a culture of open, direct, and caring communication.
Please come and support Chef Bailey and Our Voice at this lovely dinner on February 22, 2024, at The Mule.
Produced by Shay & Company in Partnership with Devil’s Foot Beverage Company
Stay Tuned for Menu Details
The Blood Connection will set up a mobile unit at the WNC Nature Center parking lot on Saturday, February 24, from 10am – 3pm. Blood donors will get $40 in e-gift cards, plus a free guest pass to the Nature Center. As a bonus, the Friends of the WNC Nature Center will receive a $10 donation for each person who gives blood. We recommend signing up in advance.
Lace up your running shoes, grab your winter hat, and join us for the 9th Annual Chilly Challenge 8K & 1-Mile Chili Chase on Saturday, February 24, 2024. Run or walk with us to benefit North Buncombe Middle School!
Join the Franklin School of Innovation for a festive night to celebrate ten years of innovation and trailblazing for the future!
Saturday, March 2, 2024
6:00 – 9:00 PM
Held at The Mule at Devil’s Foot Beverage Company
131 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville NC 28803
ADULTS 21+ ONLY
Please see the event page for ticket orders and more details:
https://auctria.events/Franklinschoolofinnovationgala
This fundraising event will feature delicious hors d’oeuvres from 67 Biltmore, light entertainment and fabulous drinks from The Mule.
This event is open to all local and afar, please mark your calendars for the ONLINE AUCTION & 50/50 RAFFLE!
Featuring glamorous hotel stays, art, fine beverages, local dining gift certificates, collectibles, and more!
Bidding opens February 19th and runs until March 2nd. Bidding can be done virtually, but we would hope to see you there!
We’re thrilled to present the “Blue Ridge Jamboree: ON THE RISE”, a showcase of our region’s top artists ages 25 and younger.
Hosted by acclaimed musician and storyteller Josh Goforth, ON THE RISE features:
• Addie Levy
• Appalachian Roots
• Bayla Davis
• Eric + Addie
• Newfound Gap
• Hightop Mountain Harmony
All proceeds of The Blue Ridge Jamboree will support FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge’s Lynn Davis Scholarship program, which funds students who are pursuing college degrees with a commitment to enhance the natural beauty, ecological vitality, and cultural distinctiveness of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge region.
Show rating: Ages 21 and up
See all of our upcoming events at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/beardedladyproductions
Join us on Thursday, March 14th at 7:00 p.m. at New Belgium Brewing for an evening of non-stop fun and laughter! Bearded Lady Productions is proud to bring back “Divine Intervention,” the sell-out smash hit game show fundraiser. This event is a fundraiser with all profits being donated to Our VOICE. Ages 21 and up. The $15 tickets are available now at www.AshevilleDragBrunch.com.
Step into the fabulous world of “Divine Intervention,” a 90-minute game show that channels the spirit of the classic Family Feud but with a fabulous twist! Hosted by the charismatic Divinity Holeburn, this show guarantees real audience engagement with saucy side-commentary, cheeky prizes, and dazzling drag performances that will leave you in awe. But that’s not all! If you’re feeling lucky, you could even be chosen to participate as a contestant in the game show and win some fabulously tacky prizes. And while the contestants take a break, the audience will be treated to silly commercial breaks and even more dazzling drag performances.
New Belgium has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ communities for over 20 years. They employed the first Diversity + Inclusion specialist in the craft beer industry, and now have a DEI Director leading this work across our fast-growing business. They are a member of the Human Rights Campaign Business Coalition for the Equality Act and advocate against discriminatory public policy. They are proud to support organizations working for LGBTQ+ health, education, and equity year-round (https://www.newbelgium.com).
OurVOICE is Buncombe County’s anti-sexual violence and anti-human trafficking agency that takes an intersectional, person-centered approach to support survivors and prevent future acts of sexual violence. Their core values are as follows: to believe all survivors, promote dignity, support individual agency, shift paradigms, and create a culture of care and honesty. Learn more at https://www.ourvoicenc.org.
See this and a variety of other fundraiser shows planned for the year at www.AshevilleDragBrunch.com. Tickets are non-refundable. Bags and backpacks are subject to search. Seating at this event is theatre style. Produced by Bearded Lady Productions 501c3.
Can’t make it but still want to help? Donate at https://www.ashevilledragbrunch.com/donate.
Asheville Catholic School presents the 17th Annual Shamrock Run on Saturday, March 16. The event will benefit the O’Brien and William Edward Gibbs Memorial Scholarship Fund. There are two races: a 5K and a 10K, both of which start and finish at ACS and run through the beautiful neighborhoods of North Asheville. A fun run will precede the start of the 5K and 10K. The 5K and 10K will start 15 minutes apart. The 10K will start at 8:30 AM and the 5K at 8:45 AM. The Fun Run will begin at 8:00 AM. This year’s race will be on the day before St. Patrick’s Day giving everyone a perfect way to celebrate this fun holiday. There will be great food, beer, and a DJ before and after the race.
Celebrate the start of Spring with Firefly Gathering! Join us in the daytime for Earthskills demos, live music, and local flavors, then dance the night away with our after-hour DJ sets. Learn more and get your tickets today at www.fireflygathering.org
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Full Description:
Tickets are going fast for this community celebration! This experience shares a taste of everything that Firefly is known for: earthskills, expert instructors, live music, local flavors…and ample time to dance! With day and night-time offerings, this Mini-Fly has something for everyone.
Bring the whole family during the day for Earthskill demos with our expert instructors, and enjoy live music, a traditional Cherokee Indian dinner, and all the craft beverages that One World Brewing has to offer while you’re there (dinner and drinks available for purchase from vendors)! As the sun goes down, bust out those dancing shoes and join us for our DJ Dance Party with DJ Lakesolace from 8pm – 10pm and DJ Meticulus from 10pm – 12pm (21+ ONLY).
Our ticket options give you the flexibility to join for all or part of the event, with full event tickets starting at just $29. Join us on March 16th at One World Brewing West through the ticket link below. We can’t wait to dance in the Equinox with you!
Additional Info:
Here’s our schedule for the day:
4PM – 7PM: Earthskills Demos with Grant Adkisson, Josh Barnwell, Jessica Kaufman, Tyler Lavenburg and Luke McLaughlin.
5PM – 8:30PM: Traditional Cherokee Indian Dinner (available for purchase at the event; sliding scale $20-40)
6:30PM – 8PM: Live Music Set with Auram
8PM – 12AM: DJ Dance Party (21+ only)
The annual March for Meals campaign commemorates the historic day in March 1972 when President Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 and established a national nutrition program for seniors 60 years and older.
The event will feature staff, volunteers and community leaders speaking about the importance of addressing senior hunger and isolation, followed by a Proclamation from the Mayor of Hendersonville, and ending with packing that day’s meals for drivers to deliver to homebound seniors throughout the County. Participants have the opportunity to take part in a ride-along with a Meals on Wheels driver and get a hands-on look at the impact of this vital program.
This campaign arrives at a pressing time for Henderson County’s Meals on Wheels service. Demand continues to exceed available financial resources. This issue is magnified by the pending loss of COVID-related funds at the end of this fiscal year. In response, COAHC recently had to make the difficult decision to stop accepting clients beyond their current funding capacity, resulting in a waitlist of over 100 homebound seniors, with an average wait time of at least 6 months before receiving service. This means that there are dozens of seniors in our community who are unable to access the vital support they desperately need to age in place
Looking to be challenged physically and spiritually?… join us for the 2024 Carry Your Cross 5K, 1K Kid’s Run, and Little Kid’s (Ages 2-5) Fun Run – Saturday, March 30, 2024. – 5K participants carry a 4ft length of 2×4 lumber across your back for the final 2/10 of a mile – uphill! Come join us for a run that you won’t soon forget. * 5K AWARDS & AGE GROUPS Special Commemorative Awards to: * Top 3 Male/Female Overall * Top 3 Male/Female Masters [40+] * Top 3 Male/Female in the following Age Groups: * 12+ under, 13-15, 16-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 + KIDS 1K AWARDS to the Top 3 Male/Female Overall Schedule Saturday – March 30th * 7:00 – 8:45 Packet Pick Up and Onsite Registration in the Family Life Center (gym). * 9:00 5K START * 9:45 +/- Little Kids Fun Run START * 10:00 +/- Kids 1K START * 10:30 5K Awards Ceremony
We must protect and restore abortion access.
Since the reversal of Roe v Wade, the future of abortion access has been handed to state legislatures. This catastrophic SCOTUS decision is to the detriment of many states across the South.
In fact, now 1 in 3 women live in states without access, and the top ten states with the highest rates of maternal mortality have all passed abortion bans. The 2024 election is critical to abortion access in NC.
The Reproductive Freedom Art Show is an artistic act of defiance. All proceeds raised from the art show will support Planned Parenthood Action PAC NC. The Action PAC supports pro-reproductive health candidates by direct voter contact work, reaching low propensity voters and mobilizing the electorate to vote for pro-choice candidates.
Help protect and restore access to safe, legal abortion and reproductive rights by participating in this show by donating artwork, your time, shopping, or just spreading the word.
We are starting our first full month of Spring which means a few more weeks of spring break. High travel seasons like spring break can lead to increased needs for blood and decreased rates of donations. You can help make sure the blood supply stays at a safe level when you Spring into Life Saving at the AdventHealth Blood Drive. We are excited to partner with The Blood Connection to meet the blood needs for people across our community.
Blood Drive
AdventHealth Hendersonville & The Blood Connection
Thursday, April 4 | 10 am to 3 pm
100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville
Look for The Blood Connection Mobile Donor Unit near the Valet parking lot.
All donors will receive a $50 e-gift card!
Join AVL Clothing Swap for our biggest event yet! Now located at the Regeneration Station, the swap works the same as always: purchase your ticket (now a tax-deductible donation!) drop off clothing (clean and in good condition) at Regeneration Station before the event date. On the day of the event, show up to shop the swap!
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Thank you to Carolina Furniture Concepts for hosting our annual coat drive on Friday, April 19 and to WLOS-13 and Two Men and a Truck for sponsoring the event. Our community has always been very generous in donating many great items that keep our neighbors warm this winter.
The coat giveaway will be held on Wednesday, October 23 and Thursday, October 24 at 23 Hamilton Street, Asheville, NC 28801.
Veggie Stars, Herbs, Flowers
ELIDA helping children succeed
Uniting Communities: Inaugural She Slays 5K and One-Mile Fun Run Empowers Women
In a celebration of solidarity and empowerment, the inaugural She Slays 5K and One Mile Fun Run is set to kick off on April 20th, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to support the Women Helping Women program at UNC Health Pardee.
This exciting event aims to foster a sense of community while raising crucial funds for a program dedicated to uplifting and supporting women in need.
Participants of all ages and fitness levels are invited to lace up their running shoes and join in the festivities. Whether racing to beat personal records or strolling leisurely, everyone’s participation contributes to the greater cause of empowering women in our community.
Registration for this event is now open – Register for She Slays Now.
Looking for a new second-hand treasure? Love a good deal? Want to support a local non-profit? Come check out the Blue Ridge Roller Derby Yard Sale! Shop for a variety of items from clothes to furniture and more, or just come say hi to your favorite skaters. All proceeds from the sale benefit Blue Ridge Roller Derby.
Sale is in convenient West Asheville at 133 Dorchester Ave. from 8am to noon. See you there!
Veggie Stars, Herbs, Flowers
ELIDA helping children succeed
Get revved up for best weekend of the year! Join us for the Tail Chaser 250, where you will experience an epic “ride at your own pace” dual sport adventure ride on the best scenic paved, gravel, and back roads in the Southeast. This in-person event is an absolute must for anyone who loves being on the motorcycle, hanging out with good people, and enjoying the beauty of the open road.
We’ll be returning to Deerwoode Reserve, situated along the French Broad River, just outside Brevard, NC, where we’ll gather for meals together in their new event pavilion, enjoy the property’s beauty, and stay both Friday and Saturday nights. We’ll be able to spread out in wide open fields for camping and cabins available for rent, and enjoy the view beyond.
Join Eurosport Asheville and the entire adventure motorcycle community to help raise essential funds for Muddy Sneakers and the Veterans Healing Farm. It’s an honor to donate 100% of the proceeds of Tail Chaser 250 to these organizations doing important work in our communities. We really appreciate your support!
So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to immerse yourself in a weekend of adventure and being a part of the motorcycle community. The Tail Chaser 250 is waiting for you – suit up and prepare for the best weekend of the year!
Join us every Tuesday in April for Taco Tuesdays at Highland Brewing! Indulge in delicious tacos from Dirty Gertie’s while enjoying our $5 Cerveza special in the Taproom. Bring your friends and family for a flavorful evening with tasty food and great drinks. Don’t miss out on this weekly fiesta! See you there!
A portion of Cerveza sales will be donated to SAHC all month long. To see all the amazing things they are a part of click here!
Liberation Tools is a cooperative subset of the 501c3 nonprofit Soul & Soil Project based in the unceded Tsalagi (Cherokee) territory of Western North Carolina.
Our mission is to build a collective that sustainably and skillfully crafts quality tools used for growing food, and freely distributes them to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. To support these efforts, we sell these tools for twice the cost of producing one, thereby allowing people with accumulated wealth to access high quality tools by also paying for an identical tool to be sent to a BIPOC land steward.
Participating Asheville Restaurants |
The Western North Carolina AIDS Project (WNCAP) will host its annual Dining Out For Life event on Thursday, April 25. Now in its 22nd year, Dining Out For Life 2024 encourages residents of Asheville and Western North Carolina to dine out at participating restaurants. This celebration supports both the local restaurants that host the events while raising money for WNCAP’s life-saving services. The money raised by Dining Out for Life helps provide care, rental assistance, and education in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
2024 Participating Restaurants (List Updated Daily)
* Member of Asheville Independent Restaurant Association
*Farm Burger Downtown
*Farm Burger South AVL
*Gan Shan West
*Jettie Rae’s Oyster House
*Laughing Seed
*Posana
*Salt Face Mule
The Noodle shop
*Twisted Laurel Downtown AVL
*Vinnie’s Italian
*Vinnie’s South
Vivian Asheville
Liberation Tools is a cooperative subset of the 501c3 nonprofit Soul & Soil Project based in the unceded Tsalagi (Cherokee) territory of Western North Carolina.
Our mission is to build a collective that sustainably and skillfully crafts quality tools used for growing food, and freely distributes them to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. To support these efforts, we sell these tools for twice the cost of producing one, thereby allowing people with accumulated wealth to access high quality tools by also paying for an identical tool to be sent to a BIPOC land steward.