Check out a fun Q&A below with our new Tutor & Volunteer Coordinator Traqoya! 

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role at Read 2 Succeed?
Traqoya here! Most important points, right? I am a daughter of God, mother of five, a growing business owner (Wintress Daughter Essentials), sister to 8, aunt to 10, niece to 10, a song’s instrument, and a creative being. I love PEOPLE, like seriously, and as the Tutor and Volunteer Coordinator, my heart is happy to connect, organize, and support the key individuals in our community around improving literacy for our Black and brown babies!

2. How did reading or literacy shape your childhood or early life?
Reading rescued me as a child. Because of it, I’ve been a queen, a pirate, a murder detective, a teacher, a revolutionist, a president, and so much more! Most importantly, reading emboldened me to be a force. I knew the world and all I wanted to know was just a book or internet search away. I realized reading gave me the permission to be EVERYTHING I wanted to be, regardless of anyone's say so. Reading freed me!

3. What was your favorite book as a child, and do you have a favorite now?
Bridge to Terebithia and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

4. What inspired you to join Read 2 Succeed and work in youth literacy?
As I focused on building community for my children and myself, the desire to connect positively to the very community we live in grew beautifully. My children are not in the public school system but are educated at home, and it has not been smooth sailing around literacy when working with my younger ones. This opportunity goes beyond my community, for me, and circles back to home. I get to practice what we preach and walk out this talk! My children get to enjoy this journey right beside me, all as we expand our community.

5. What are you most excited to contribute to our community and team?
Forever student, here! I rise to meet every expectation and exceed many times over, but I am most excited to join in and LEARN! Whatever I offer can always be corrected, redirected, and refined. All to empower me to show up and serve better.

6. How do you spend your time outside of work—hobbies, passions, or small joys?
Did I mention I have 5 kiddos?! Ha! They kind of take up my life, but it wasn’t meant to be any other way. My skincare business gets whatever time my children leave for it, but the time management is getting better! When I can, crochet, reading, singing, and creating is where you will find me.

7. What do you love most about our local community (Asheville or surrounding area)?
I really enjoy the nature within this county and surrounding areas–the creeks, trees, parkway, trails, and waterfalls.

8. If you could recommend one book to our staff, students, or community, what would it be and why?
The Bible. I didn't know how loved I was until I read it for myself!

Calling our R2S family—volunteers, community partners, donors, board members, educators, families, and friends! We can’t wait to gather with you at the 5th Annual R2S Fall Mixer on Wednesday, October 1st, from 5:30–7:30 PM at River Arts District Brewing Company.

This annual celebration has grown bigger and better every year, and it’s truly one of our favorite ways to bring the whole R2S community together.

Come enjoy:
✨ Delicious food & drinks
✨ Music, games & door prizes
✨ R2S swag & free children’s books
✨ Spectacular door prizes

Best of all—you’ll connect with incredible people who care about building a stronger ecosystem of literacy and learning across our community.

Entry is free (friends & family welcome!), and this year we’ll also be inviting guests to make an optional suggested donation to help power R2S’s youth literacy programs—from weekly Pre-K read-alouds and one-to-one tutoring to family reading events, book distribution, and more.

👉 Click below to RSVP and reserve your spot!

We can’t wait to kick off fall with you. 🍻📚

September is National Literacy Month, and our friends at River Arts District Brewing Company are celebrating by giving back. All month long, you can round up at the register to support Read 2 Succeed’s high-impact literacy programs.

Here’s how you can join the fun:

• Stop by RAD Brewing Co. (13 Mystery St., Asheville) anytime in September
  
• Enjoy craft brews and community vibes (plus, free popcorn!)
  
• Round up your tab—and watch your change spark real change for kids in WNC!
  

Plus, don’t miss RAD Brewing Co.'s lineup of community events: weekly trivia, live music, and Nerd Nite on Sept. 11, where Co-Executive Director Ashley Allen will be a featured presenter. 

Every pint poured and every tab rounded up helps fuel a love of reading in our community. Cheers to that!

Read 2 Succeed (R2S) is on a mission to help close the race-based opportunity gap through community-powered literacy programming that engages children, families, and community partners.

Become a Volunteer Reading Tutor with Read 2 Succeed
At Read 2 Succeed (R2S), we believe all children are capable, brilliant, and worthy of an education that affirms their full potential. We partner with families, schools, and volunteers to support K–5 students across Asheville and Buncombe County in becoming confident, joyful readers.

Public schools—especially those serving Black and Brown students—are under-resourced and impacted by systems that weren’t built for equity. That’s why we’re looking for community members ready to show up with consistency, humility, and respect for the hard work students are already doing to learn to read.
​
We’re recruiting volunteer reading tutors to commit to one student for the full school year, meeting with them twice a week during or after school. Our tutors are trained, supported, and deeply connected to a network of people committed to literacy justice and educational equity in our community.
Ready to get involved?
​Learn more and apply today:

What does reading tutor training involve?
Over the last three weeks of August, R2S will host training sessions with new volunteer reading tutors, exploring the state of literacy in Asheville City and Buncombe County schools and the Essentials of Foundational Reading Instruction. You will workshop best practices for teaching phonics and phonemic awareness and learn how to use the reading curricula and R2S lesson plan.
NOTE: All volunteer reading tutors are required to complete six hours of training across three days (Wednesday, Aug. 13th, 20th, and 27th from 6 PM - 8 PM on Zoom)​

How long is reading tutor training?
All new volunteer reading tutors are required to complete a minimum of six hours of training (two hours a day spread across three days). All upcoming trainings will take place on Zoom.

How do I get started?
Learn more and fill out a volunteer application by click the button above.

Questions? Contact Volunteer Coordinator Camille at [email protected]

Looking for fun, free ways to keep your child reading this summer? You're in luck! Summer is the perfect time to build joyful reading habits—and with a little extra motivation (hello, free books, sweet treats, and even pizza!), kids might just surprise you with how much they read.

We’ve rounded up 7 exciting summer reading programs—some national, some right here in Asheville—that are easy to join and totally free. Whether your child is into silly stories, graphic novels, or picture books, there’s something on this list to keep them turning pages all summer long.

1. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Journal
📚 Prize: A free book of your choice
🗓 When: July–August 2025
✍️ How it works: Download the Summer Reading Journal (English or Spanish), have your child read 8 books, and write a short response for each. Bring the completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store and pick out a free book from the summer reading list!

2. Panda Express “Read with Me” Program
🍱 Prize: A free kids meal
📖 How it works: Sign up for the Read with Me program online. You’ll get printable bookmarks and fun materials. Once your child reads 5 books, you’ll receive a coupon for a free kids meal.

3. Nothing Bundt Cakes “Books & Bundts”
🎂 Prize: A free mini bundt cake
📅 When: June 1 – August 31, 2025
🕒 How it works: Kids PreK–elementary can track 400 minutes of reading (just 15 minutes a day!). Download or pick up a reading tracker at your local Asheville store, then turn it in for a sweet reward. All three Asheville locations are participating!

4. Buncombe County Libraries Summer Reading Challenge
📖 Prize: A free book, bookmark & kiddie scoop from The Hop
🌈 For ages: 0–18
📍 Where: At any of Buncombe County’s 12 public libraries
🗺 How it works: Pick up an activity sheet at your nearest library. Complete 10 fun reading-related activities and return the sheet for a free book, bookmark, and a scoop of ice cream from The Hop. Details here.


5. Chuck E. Cheese Rewards Calendar
🎮 Prize: 10 free play points
📆 When: Ongoing through 12/31/25
📝 How it works: Download the Reading Rewards Calendar, track two weeks of reading, and bring it to any Chuck E. Cheese for free play points.

6. Pizza Hut “Book It!” Digital Program
🍕 Prize: Monthly reward certificate for a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza
📲 How it works: Parents and caregivers can sign up online to track reading through the Book It! digital dashboard. Kids in PreK–6th grade can earn a pizza reward each month from June to August.


7. Little Free Libraries Around Asheville
📚 Prize: Free books, anytime
🏘 Where: All around Asheville neighborhoods!
🔍 How it works: Visit a Little Free Library near you, take a book, leave a book, or just explore. It’s a free, year-round way to build your home library and discover new stories together.​


Let Reading Be the Reward
From bundt cakes to books, Asheville’s local libraries, businesses, and national programs are making reading even more rewarding this summer. Whether your child is already a bookworm or just starting to warm up to reading, these programs offer something special to help keep the joy of learning alive all season long.

🌞 Take Action Today: Choose one or two programs to explore this week. Set a reading goal with your child. Then celebrate their progress—big or small. You’ve got this!

Want more reading ideas and activities for kids? Check out our monthly Family Reading Newsletter with book recommendations, check out our blog, or follow us on social media @r2sasheville for tips, book picks, and local literacy events happening all summer.

Looking for a book-tastic way to support Read 2 Succeed *and* an incredible local BIPOC-owned bookstore?

Support the Cuentos y Café Summer Reading Book Drive now through June 30, 2025!

1. Purchase and donate children's books at Cuentos y Café pop-ups around Asheville during June - check out their upcoming events.
2. Purchase children's books at the Cuentos y Café online store and ship to Cuentos y Café owner: Tamara Olmedo, 528 Emma Road Asheville, NC 28806. Shop the online bookstore wish list!

All donated books will go directly to local families through Read 2 Succeed's family reading events and student book bundles!

Follow Cuentos y Café BIPOC Bookstore on Instagram and help spread the word!

Books give families an amazing opportunity to center stories, experiences, and history they may have never heard. What better example of this than read-alouds about Juneteenth, an important historical event that just became recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. Take a moment to explore these child-friendly books and learn more about how your family can honor the history of this holiday.

1.  “The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States (Holiday Celebration)” written by Alliah L. Agostini and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud

Using colorful illustrations and clear and kid-friendly language, this book explains how, despite Independence Day,  June 19, 1865 became the true day of freedom for Texas’s enslaved people. “The Juneteenth Story” does a great job outlining the timeline of Juneteenth- sharing how enslaved Africans first learned they were free to describing early Jubilee Day celebrations to Jim Crow restrictions to how Juneteenth became a federally recognized U.S. holiday.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

2.  “Juneteenth for Mazie” written by Floyd Cooper

Mazie learns about her Grandpa Mose, both his experience being enslaved and the celebrations that came with learning about the Emancipation Proclamation. She's ready to celebrate a pivotal moment in American history—the day her ancestors were finally freed from slavery. Mazie is filled with pride as she learns about the African American fight for freedom, from Juneteenth to the Civil Rights Movement. As Juneteenth approaches, Mazie reflects on the hardships they endured and the victories they achieved, embracing the significance of this powerful day.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

3.  “Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth” written by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by  Keturah A. Bobo
 
This picture books recounts the true story of Opal Lee, an inspiring woman who faced injustice as a child and dreamed of making Juneteenth a national holiday. Follow Opal Lee’s story as she shares with her grandchildren what it was like to live through Emancipation, Jim Crow, and to fight for justice, and find moments of joy and celebration. This inspiring historical account shows how one brave woman, rooted in history and hope, turned pain into power and helped the world remember that freedom belongs to everyone.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

4.  “A Flag for Juneteenth”written by Kim Taylor

In A Flag for Juneteenth, young Huldah turns ten the same day freedom comes to her Texas community. Through stunning quilted art, author Kim Taylor brings the joy, hope, and unity of that first Juneteenth to life in this story of Huldah and her family as they create a one-of-a-kind representation of their freedom.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

5.  “Juneteenth: A Children’s Story Special Edition” written by Opal Lee

This communal read-aloud of Juneteenth: A Children’s Story Special Edition, teaches young readers about the history of enslavement, freedom, and the importance of Juneteenth. Ms. Opal Lee, considered the Grandmother of Juneteenth, shares these experiences in a way that encourages understanding and meaningful conversations.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

6.  “Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth” written by Tonya Abari and illustrated by Tabitha Brown

Celebrate freedom with Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth, a vibrant board book for babies and toddlers!  Little ones are introduced to Juneteenth with bold, colorful art and lots of rhymes. This read aloud is a great introduction for Toddlers to the celebration and history of Juneteenth.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

7.  “All Different Now: Juneteenth the 1st Day of Freedom”  written by Angela Johnson and illustrated by  E.B. Lewis

Celebrate the spirit of Juneteenth through the eyes of a young girl in All Different Now, a beautifully illustrated story about the day freedom reached the last enslaved people in the South and the night that followed—marking a new beginning and a powerful moment in American history.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

8.  “The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story”  written by Glenda Armand and illustrated by Corey Barksdale

In this heartfelt story told in lyrical rhyme, young David hears his grandma recount the first Juneteenth—when freedom finally reached Galveston, Texas. Inspired by family tradition and history, this picture book honors the legacy of emancipation for generations to come.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

9.  “Juneteenth Jamboree” written by  Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Yvonne Buchanan

Cassie feels out of place after moving to Texas—until a surprise Juneteenth celebration fills her day with the joy of tradition! Through food, family, and festivity, she discovers the historical meaning of freedom for people who look like her. Through this heartfelt tribute to heritage and belonging, we follow Cassie as she starts to feel at home and learn about Juneteenth.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

10. “Jaylen’s Juneteenth Surprise” written by  Lavaille Lavette and illustrated by  David Wilkerson

Jayylen learns about Juneteenth from his Paw Paw Jimmy, who shares its meaning and music. Excited for the celebration Jayylen practices playing the frottoir, a washboard instrument played in Zydeco music. Follow Jayylen and family as they prepare a special surprise to honor the day when freedom was finally announced to enslaved African Americans.

Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Using culturally responsive children's books during the transition from Pre-K to Kindergarten helps children feel seen and valued. The following recommended books reflect diverse identities, especially from BIPOC communities, fostering a sense of belonging. When children see characters like themselves, it builds trust, encourages curiosity, and supports language development, while promoting empathy and respect in the classroom and communities.

Celebrate the huge transition to kindergarten milestone with these 10 titles recommended by R2S:

“KINDergarten: Where Kindness Matters Every Day” written by Vera Ahiyya and illustrated by Joey Cho

It's Leo's first day of Kindergarten, and he's nervous. His teacher, Ms. Perry, asked students to think of ways to show kindness. At the end of the day, classmates mention Leo returning crayons, holding the door, and helping a friend. Leo smiles, realizing he already knows kindness.

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything!” written by Alissa Holder and Zulekha Holder-Young and illustrated by Nneka Myers

Ayaan wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, feeling like nothing’s going his way. What if he doesn’t know the answer at school? What if he messes up? But as he steps out the door, his mom and some friendly neighbors are there with a reminder: HE IS SMART, HE IS BLESSED, AND HE CAN DO ANYTHING! With a little boost of positive energy, Ayaan’s day turns around, and he’s ready to take on whatever comes his way!

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“The King of Kindergarten” written by Derrick Barnes and Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

The morning sun shines like a crown as a confident little boy prepares for his first day of kindergarten. He's dressed, eaten pancakes, and ready to join a new kingdom of kids. Throughout the day, he faces new challenges with excitement, eager to share his achievements with his parents afterward. Derrick Barnes' empowering story, with joyful illustrations by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, gives new kindergarteners a confidence boost.

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“The Queen of Kindergarten” written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

MJ is all set for her first day of kindergarten! With her hair braided and a special tiara on her head, she’s ready to rock the day. The tiara reminds her of all the awesome things she brings to school—kindness, friendliness, and even soccer skills! This fun, confidence-boosting story is perfect for getting little ones excited for kindergarten!

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“The Day You Begin” written by Jacqueline Woodson  and illustrated by Rafael López

In this heartfelt book, National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and illustrator Rafael López explore the courage it takes to connect, even when you feel different or alone. Through lyrical text and vibrant art, they remind us that everyone feels like an outsider at times, but by sharing our stories, we can find others who will meet us halfway.

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“What Will I Be?” written by Jayla Joseph

This fun and uplifting book is perfect for kids ages 3-7! It shows that you can be anything you dream of, featuring a variety of careers in a simple, engaging way. It's a great read for all kids, encouraging everyone to celebrate differences and learn about BIPOC characters from a young age!

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“Black Boy Be You” written by Latoshia Martin

"Black Boy Be You!" is a joyful, empowering story that celebrates self-love and confidence. When Isaiah notices he's a little different from his friends during a day at the playground, he learns to embrace what makes him special. Perfect for inspiring young Black boys to love who they are—inside and out!

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“You Come From Greatness” written by Sara Chinakee and illustrated by Ken Daley

Born to Shine is a vibrant celebration of Black history and pride! Guided by his father's words, a young boy learns he's part of a powerful legacy—filled with inventors, leaders, and storytellers—and that he was born to do great things, too!

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“I Affirm Me: The ABC’s of Inspiration for Black Kid” written by Nyasha Williams and illustrated by Sofya Glushko

This is one of those books every Black child should have on their shelf. It’s an ABC of powerful affirmations—from A is for Afro to J is for Justice—that celebrates who they are and where they come from. It’s all about helping kids feel proud, confident, and full of love, while showing them just how magical they already are.

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

“Brown Boy Brown Boy What Can You Be?” written by Ameshia Arthur

Join Matthew as he dreams big and explores all the amazing things he can become! From building skyscrapers to healing the sick, Matthew imagines a world full of possibilities. This uplifting story encourages young readers to believe in themselves, aim high, and know that with confidence and determination, they can achieve anything.

Listen to a live read-aloud here.

Related articles:

R2S Recommends "Black Girl, Black Girl"
R2S Recommends "Black Boy, Black Boy"
10 Back to School Books Featuring Black Characters
5 Ice Cream Inspired Reading Tips & Ideas
11 Children's Books About LOVE Featuring Black Characters
6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination

Did you know that due to Hurricane Helene, Buncombe County cut nearly $4.7 million in funding to Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools in January 2025? Simultaneously, early childhood centers are trying to stay afloat amidst staffing shortages and facilities and operations impacts from the storm.

As relief funding and support reaches important stages for public comment. we are calling on our amazing R2S community to advocate for literacy and education! Local students have missed upward of a month of school this year due to the storm and winter weather early in 2025 – they need and deserve as much support as possible, and your voice is critical to ensuring our literacy and learning ecosystem stays strong.

Use the links below to read more and leave feedback about draft action plans for relief funding and education support.

City of Asheville releases Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Relief (CDBG-DR) Draft Action Plan
Outlining unmet needs caused by Hurricane Helene within the Asheville city limits, the $225 million CDBG-DR grant Draft Action Plan also highlights the proposed programs and activities to be funded.

Community members can leave feedback on the plan through a public comment platform open through April 3, 2025. Click here to review the draft action plan and leave public comment.

Want to discuss more with folks in the community before you leave comment? Check out two remaining Equity Inquiry Parties hosted by The People's Place AVL. Together, the community is taking some powerful first steps toward putting together a strong analysis of the City’s draft plan for using an expected influx of $225 million in federal money for disaster recovery.

Click here to learn more and see the schedule of remaining sessions (join in person or online).

"Mo Wants to Know": Public Feedback for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice "Mo" Green
NC Department of Public Instruction is looking for community insights in alignment with the six pillars outlined in Superintendent Mo Green's Entry Plan: (1) prepare each student for their next phase in life, (2) invest fully in public education, (3) revere public school educators, (4) enhance parent and community support and partnerships, (5)

Community members can read Mo Green's entry plan and leave feedback on a public form. Click here to review the draft entry plan and leave feedback.