News

Only Hope removes Absher from all involvement in agency

By Lightning Reports, Published: August 18, 2025

The Board of Directors of Only Hope WNC Inc. has removed Michael Absher from “all positions of authority” and banned him from the organization's home for teen-aged boys, which is also Absher’s residence, the nonprofit said in a statement Monday.

Absher has remained in jail since his arrest on July 31 on two charges of statutory rape of a child 15 or under and now faces a total of 11 felonies. He remained in jail under a $650,000 bond after a hearing Monday. 

“Mr. Absher is no longer affiliated with the organization,” the Only Hope board said. “While the legal process has not yet been resolved, Only Hope’s Board recognized the need to act swiftly to ensure the continued stability and integrity of the nonprofit’s operations.”

“The safety, well-being, and trust of our clients and the community are our highest priorities,” interim Chair Kyle Barker said. “While this is a difficult moment, it is necessary for Only Hope to completely separate itself from Mr. Absher. We are committed to transparency, stability, and moving forward with purpose.”

Here is the rest of the statement:
“In addition to removal from employment and involvement in Only Hope programs, the former CEO will no longer reside at nor have contact with Only Hope’s residential facility. The Board of Directors has begun development of short- and long-term plans for Only Hope programs, implementation of safeguards to prevent future issues, and potential expansion of staff to provide additional oversight. The Board will meet weekly to actively manage daily operations, to engage with community partners, and to ensure that the organization remains a safe, supportive, and trusted community resource. The Board of Directors urges community members to continue supporting Only Hope’s mission during this transition period.”
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Absher 15 years ago, Only Hope WNC says its mission is to promote the value of education, honor individuality and diversity, nurture respect for self and others and provide hope for young people in need in the community. Since 2010, Only Hope has more than 19,000 young people, including the estimated 300 or more in Henderson County.