A Post-Helene Update from Read 2 Succeed

We hope this message finds you safe and surrounded by support. In light of the recent hurricane, we wanted to share some updates regarding Read 2 Succeed's operations and how we can continue to support each other during this challenging time.

Read 2 Succeed Staff and Operations
We are relieved to report that all staff and board members of Read 2 Succeed have been accounted for and are safe. We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of care from our community and will continue reaching out to tutors, volunteers, and supporters as communication is restored.

Cancellations and Program Adjustments
In response to the ongoing challenges, all Read 2 Succeed tutoring and PreK read-aloud sessions are canceled until further notice. Both Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools have announced an indefinite closure, and many of the community centers and schools we partner with are currently without water. We will continue to keep you informed as more details become available.

Additionally, all upcoming R2S volunteer events and planned R2S support is cancelled until further notice - this includes the Thomas Wolfe 8K, Oct. 8th Bingo Books & Booo's at 12 Bones Brewing (South Asheville), and the Christine W. Avery Learning Center Falling for Families Festival (moved to Spring 2025).

Gratitude for Recent Support and Local Businesses
The day before Helene hit, we held our 4th Annual R2S Fall Mixer at River Arts District Brewing (RAD Brew Co). Despite the weather, many of you came together to enjoy a delicious meal from Blessed Soul Food, support our raffle, and create a joyful space for connection. We are thankful for those who attended, and we will carry the warmth of that experience with us as we move through the months of recovery ahead.

While RAD Brew Co. fared better than many businesses near the river, we are deeply saddened to learn that several local businesses featured in our raffle were devastatingly impacted by the storm, including Second Gear and 12 Bones BBQ in the River Arts District and JW Bell, Scout Boutique, Corner Kitchen, and Lilly Pulitzer in Biltmore Village. Other contributing businesses in Weaverville and Old Fort, including Reems Creek Nursery and Painters Greenhouse, are working to recover and support loved ones and their communities.

We extend a huge thank you to those who purchased raffle tickets to help advance the R2S mission, and we also want to take a moment to honor the work and resources these businesses specifically have put into their community.

Supporting Our Community
Like many of us, the students and families R2S serves have been incredibly impacted by this disaster, facing daily challenges to surviving without water, power, reliable cell service and internet, and limited access to fuel and food. If you have the physical and emotional capacity to pitch in, we encourage you to check out the open source WNC Helene - How to Help Guide or visit HandsOn Asheville for volunteer opportunities, or plug into your neighborhoods and the organizations you already follow and support.

If you or your family are in need of supplies or assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. As a community-powered nonprofit, Read 2 Succeed is committed to connecting people and partners with resources and supporting one another through this recovery process.

With love and gratitude,
Jess & Ashley

Jessica McLean & Ashley Allen
Co-Executive Directors
Read 2 Succeed Asheville/Buncombe