OUR ROOTS IN GASTON
“What began as a small initiative within school walls has blossomed into a county-wide commitment to ensure every child and family has the resources to thrive.”
Gaston Grows was founded by local educators and concerned neighbors who saw a gap in the basic needs of students. By partnering directly with schools, we provide urgent assistance in the form of food, clothing, and seasonal support, ensuring that when schools are open, no family is left behind.
Meet the Board
Get to know us
Ashley Rivera
President
gastongrows@gmail.com
Ashley Rivera has proudly served Gaston County for over a decade through both healthcare and education. She spent seven years working in a hospital setting as a medical technician, caring for individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. For the past five years, she has continued that commitment to service within Gaston County Schools, where she now works as a teacher supporting students and their families.
Through her work in education, Ashley has seen firsthand the challenges many local families face beyond the classroom. Each year deepened her understanding of the urgent needs within the community and strengthened her desire to be part of meaningful, lasting solutions.
Ashley founded Gaston Grows with the hope of making a tangible difference, ensuring families have access to food, clothing, and essential support so they can focus on stability, dignity, and growth.
Michelle Allen
Vice President
gastongrows@gmail.com
Michelle Allen has served as a school social worker for over 15 years, dedicating her career to supporting children and families in need. Throughout her work, she has consistently advocated to ensure students have access to essential resources and the basic necessities required to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Her commitment to serving families extends far beyond the school day. Michelle brings valuable knowledge, experience, and community connections to the nonprofit, strengthening its mission to provide meaningful and timely support to families across Gaston County.
Danny Weikel
Treasurer
gastongrows@gmail.com
Danny Weikel is a dedicated community member who is deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in Gaston County. Through years of hard work, integrity, and determination, he has advanced within his company, earning respect for both his leadership and work ethic.
With a degree in accounting, Danny brings valuable financial expertise to Gaston Grows. He is passionate about ensuring the organization operates with transparency, accountability, and sound stewardship. His focus is to help the nonprofit remain financially balanced while using every dollar responsibly, ethically, and in alignment with its mission.
Danny believes that strong financial oversight is essential to building trust within the community and sustaining long-term impact for the families Gaston Grows serves.