Non-clinical support grounded in lived experience
WNC Listening Line (River of Hope)
A non-crisis emotional support line available across WNC from 8am-11pm daily. Call or text 828-547-4547 for compassionate, judgment-free listening.
Website: https://wncll.org/
NC Peer Warmline & Crisis Services (WNC)
Peer Warmline (855-PEERS-NC): A 24/7 line to connect with someone who has lived experience with mental health or substance use.
Mobile Crisis Teams and Community Crisis Centers provide in-person statewide support.
Website: https://www.wncchs.org/
Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness (Asheville)
A peer-led recovery organization supporting people impacted by substance use and mental health challenges. Sunrise offers peer programs and drop-in centers focused on recovery, wellness, and connection rather than clinical care.
Website: https://sunriseinasheville.org/
Operation Gateway ACE Program
A peer-led program offering community support, mentorship, and connection for individuals impacted by trauma, substance use, and systemic barriers. The ACE Program focuses on building relationships, stability, and personal growth through consistent, community-based engagement.
Website: https://www.operationgateway.org/ace
Beloved Asheville
A community-based organization focused on relationship building, mutual aid, and healing for people experiencing homelessness and systemic marginalization. Services include outreach, housing support, food access, and dignity-centered connection.
Website: https://belovedasheville.com
Centro Intercultural de Apoyo Mutuo
A community-based organization offering culturally responsive peer support, education, and advocacy for Latinx and immigrant communities. CIMA centers mutual aid, emotional wellness, and community connection rather than clinical services.
Website: https://www.cimawnc.org
Umoja Health Wellness and Justice Center (Asheville)
A Black-led community organization offering peer support, advocacy, and wellness programming rooted in cultural identity and collective healing. Services include a drop-in center and community-based supports addressing health and justice.
Website: https://www.umojahwjc.org
SeekHealing
A nonprofit based in Asheville offering listening training, peer support, and connection practices to reduce isolation and support healing from stress, trauma, or addiction. They host free listening sessions on weekends, which you can sign up for online.
Website: https://www.seekhealing.org/
NAMI Western Carolina
Offers free support groups, educational programs (like Family-to-Family), peer-led connections, and community events for individuals and families across the region.
Website: https://namiwnc.org/