In Avondale Estates this August, a neighborhood theater will come alive with classic rock and a sense of community purpose. But behind the bright lights and electric guitars is something more powerful than nostalgia–a benefit concert built on a unique blend of business, music, and Mission.
The event, set for August 16 at the historic Avon Theater, will raise funds for REAP—Reading is Essential for All People—a nonprofit founded by Jeremy and Jennifer Rhett in 2013. The organization offers structured literacy training for public school teachers across metro Atlanta to improve reading outcomes for all students, particularly those who struggle.
The idea for REAP was born on a road trip from a CertaPro Painters franchise conference. Jeremy, who owns the Decatur-based CertaPro franchise, was inspired by a presentation on using entrepreneurial resources to give back. He and Jennifer, now REAP’s executive director, put their heads together and drafted a business plan before they even made it back home.
More than a decade later, REAP has trained over 1,975 teachers and built a reputation for improving reading outcomes. School districts across the region credit the program for significant gains in literacy. One district even produced its own promotional video celebrating REAP’s impact, without being asked.
While REAP operates independently, it thrives with support from CertaPro. The business donates office and meeting space, as well as rehearsal space—yes, rehearsal space. That’s because Jeremy’s band, The Tiger Kings, practices at CertaPro HQ, which is outfitted with a stage, sound system, and lighting.
“It’s kind of the perfect mashup,” Jeremy says. “I love running a business. I love playing music. And I’m deeply passionate about literacy. This event brings it all together.” On August 16, The Tiger Kings and fellow local band Maxwell Street will take the stage. All proceeds will benefit REAP.
“We’re lucky to live and work in a place like Decatur,” Jeremy adds. “This community has supported our business, and it’s that loyalty that allows us to support REAP in return.” For those unable to attend, donations can be made at readingisessential.org. Businesses can also get involved through sponsorships or matching gift programs. And while REAP’s staff is lean with just two full-time employees and a team of dedicated trainers, every dollar goes directly toward empowering teachers and, ultimately, students.
“We always say, if REAP didn’t need to exist anymore, that would be the greatest success,” Jeremy says. “That would mean structured literacy has become standard in every classroom. Until then, we’re doing the work—one teacher, one student, one show at a time.”
Because in this story, the message is simple: every child deserves the chance to read. And every community has the power to help them turn to the next page.
To learn more about the event, visit here.
“We’re lucky to live and work in a place like Decatur. This community has supported our business, and it’s that loyalty that allows us to support REAP in return.