Free Daily Headlines

News

Set your text size: A A A

BofA honors Safelight as 2025 Neighborhood Builder

By Lightning Reports, Published: December 5, 2025

Bank of America has named Safelight as its Asheville 2025 Neighborhood Builder for its impactful work to aid and support Henderson County survivors of interpersonal violence, abuse or exploitation.

Since 1984, Safelight has served more than 46,000 individuals in Henderson County, providing critical resources and hope for those in need.

Safelight was honored during the Bank of America Philanthropy Forum Nov. 13 at Blue Ridge Community College as part of a community discussion about giving trends shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. Attendees reflected on the power of philanthropy and partnership in driving progress across Western North Carolina. Other nonprofits leading recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene were also recognized.

Bank of America’s signature Neighborhood Builders program continues to be one of the nation’s largest philanthropic investments into nonprofit leadership development, while providing unique multiyear flexible grant funding annually to high-impact nonprofits in communities nationwide.

As a Neighborhood Builder, Safelight will receive a $50,000 grant over two years, leadership training for the executive director and an emerging leader and the opportunity to connect with nonprofits through a peer network. Since the program’s inception, seven nonprofits have been selected as Neighborhood Builders in Western North Carolina, with Bank of America investing more than $350,000 in philanthropic capital to strengthen these organizations.  

“Safelight stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for survivors navigating trauma and rebuilding their lives, especially as Western North Carolina continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene,” said David Dowd, president, Bank of America Asheville. “Through flexible funding and leadership development, the Neighborhood Builders program empowers Safelight to meet urgent needs and create a stronger future for individuals and families in Henderson County.”