Written by: JoAnn Lindfors, Philanthropy Communications and Stewardship Associate
Barbara Nesbitt fondly recalls the early days of Givens Estates, where her husband Charlie played an important role in transforming a generous gift of land into a thriving retirement community rooted in faith and service.
Charlie Nesbitt played a pivotal role in the development of Givens Estates, and his contributions were highlighted in articles published by the Asheville Citizen Times throughout the development. The newspaper covered the early stages of the project, including the groundbreaking and initial construction on the land.
Charlie and his wife Barbara were married for 50 years. They began dating as teenagers when Charlie was 14 and Barbara was 13, after meeting at Central United Methodist Church in Asheville, NC. They married when Barbara was 21 and raised their family during the early years of Givens Estates’ construction, with their children born between 1969 and 1971.
According to Mrs. Nesbitt, although Mr. and Mrs. Givens were Episcopalian, they ultimately chose to donate the land to the Methodist Church. In August of 1975, more than 1,000 United Methodists voted to accept Mrs. Givens’ generous gift of 160 acres along with a $2.5 million trust. Charlie Nesbitt and Richard Wood played a key role in persuading the Givens family, paving the way for the land to be entrusted to the Methodist community and the eventual development of Givens Estates.
Charlie Nesbitt’s vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication helped lay the foundation for what Givens Estates has become today, a vibrant, mission-driven community rooted in compassion and care. His efforts, alongside those of many others, transformed a generous gift of land into a lasting legacy that continues to enrich lives. The story of Givens Estates is, in many ways, a reflection of Charlie’s commitment to faith, family, service, and values that remain at the heart of the community he helped build. Barbara Nesbitt is pictured with her son David and daughter-in-law Natalia at the Givens Communities 50th Anniversary Gala.