Celebrating Disruption

2022 AWARDS NIGHT RECAP

Thank you to everyone who Celebrated Disruption with us in honor of the incredible work being done in WNC! 

Our 2022 CoThinkk Annual Event, “Celebrating Disruption,” was a celebration of community that blended our cultural roots and visions in such a beautiful way. Together we recognized the triumphs, challenges and labors of love that often goes unseen. CoThinkk is shifting the narrative on equity, access and visibility for communities of color through the sharing of our time, talent and treasure.

On behalf of the CoThinkk family, we would like to congratulate the grant recipients and thank all of the community leaders!

Keynote Speaker:

Geny Hernández López

Geny Hernández López is a southern woman from the coast of Chiapas, Mexico. She is a popular educator – both in her work and lifestyle. She grew up on the border of Mexico and Guatemala, and since she was a child, her life has coexisted with migrants’ live.

Geny arrived in Asheville almost 10 years ago, since then, she has been involved in the struggle for immigrant rights and in social, cultural, and educational work in her community.

She has collaborated with Nuestro Centro, now Raíces, and plays many roles within the organizations that fall under the La Milpa Collaborative.

Geny loves to dance to all rhythms, from salsa to tango. for Geny, dance and music feed her soul. currently, Geny coordinates El Telar Shared Resources for Home Childcare, but she is transitioning towards direction of La Milpa Collaborative.

Honoring Kelly Goins:

Diana Blackett

CoThinkk took a minute to recognize the life and legacy of founding member Kelly Goins, whom the group lost two years ago. In Goins’ honor, CoThinkk has added $500 to all of its grant awards for wellness, self care, and/or professional development that furthers social entrepreneurship.

Kelly Goins, a passionate community leader, entrepreneur, and founding member of CoThinkk left an indelible mark on our community through her passion and tireless work to build the capacity of critical nonprofit organizations in our community.

Honored by Diana Blackett.

See The Evening In Photos

Click arrows to see more. All photos by Still Smiling Photography

Acupuncture Free Clinic of Asheville

COmmunity Extravaganza

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Elegant Blendz

Elevation of Youth/Adults in Communities

Racial Justice Coalition

Every Black Voice Campaign

Food Reparations Coordination

Herbal Euphoria Apothecary

Warrior Moms

How to Eradicate Fear – Cherokee Entrepreneurs  

I Voice Media, LLC

La Alianza

Models of Community Care

elegant blendz?

Picture Worth 1000 Words

Southside United Neighborhood Association

The Power of Our Origin

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Umoja Health, Wellness and Justice Collective HOPE 4 the Future Afterschool Program

WR’s Gutter Cleaning, Pressure Washing and Snaking Maintenance, LLC

CONGRATS TO ALL THE APPLICANTS:

2022 LEADERSHIP AWARDEES

Congratulations to all the amazing leaders nominated and recognized by community!  

NNWEYNA SMITH 

COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

 MICHAEL HAYES

COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

FRANCINA EDMONDS

COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

DAWNA LEDBETTER

COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD 

KATHY ARRIOLA 

COMMUNITY ALLY AWARD

 ALLYSON M. DEESE 

COMMUNITY ALLY AWARD

RUBI MAR 

NEXT GENERATION LEADER AWARD

CONGRATS TO ALL THE LEADER AWARD NOMINEES!

 

A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors!

 Thank You to our Speakers and Community Members:

Geny Hernández López

Rob Thomas

Diana Blackett

Cenzontle Language Justice Co-Op

El Telar Childcare Services

Code for Asheville

Naima Harrell

Marsha Fretwell

Word on the Street

Greta Anderson

Annual Events Committee

CoThinkk Members

AND MORE