Pisgah Investments Foundation Funds 13 New ESOL Classes around Buncombe County

With funding from the Pisgah Investments Foundation, we launched thirteen new ESOL classes at five different locations around Buncombe County. The introduction of these community-based ESOL classes has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since we began, these classes have quickly gained momentum, becoming a central focus for community engagement and support.

When we began volunteer recruitment over the summer, we weren’t sure what to hope for. However, the response was incredible, as enthusiastic tutors stepped forward to be part of this transformative program. Their passion and dedication have been essential in bringing this vision to life. During Tropical Storm Helene, we witnessed connections grow, highlighting the urgent need for quality literacy instruction as families navigated life after the disaster. As a result, we were able to expand our impact to thirteen community-based ESOL classes.

These include two classes at the Goodwill Industries Workforce Development Center in West Asheville; two classes at Bounty and Soul in Swannanoa, a nonprofit that provides free fresh produce and wellness education; two classes at Erwin Middle School in Buncombe County’s most ethnically diverse district; two classes at the First Baptist Church of Weaverville, and five classes at Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community in South Asheville, three of which are taught by Deerfield residents. THANK YOU, Pisgah Investments Foundation, for your support. It makes all the difference as we continue to transform lives through the power of literacy!

And to our volunteers and students . . . we couldn’t do it without you! Below is our Goodwill group class holiday party! Virginia and Rebecca teach this class and love the friendships they’re building.