Ward and Smith to Sponsor the 2026 Authors for Literacy Fundraiser

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, community members will gather at the A-B Tech Conference Center in Asheville for the 17th Annual Authors for Literacy Fundraiser, featuring New York Times bestselling author Margot Lee Shetterly.

Best known for Hidden Figures, Shetterly will share insights during an evening that also highlights stories from Literacy Together’s staff, students, and board. The event begins with a reception at 5:00 p.m., followed by the seated program at 6:30 p.m., and concludes with a book signing hosted by Malaprop’s Bookstore.

Ward and Smith is proud to sponsor this year’s fundraiser in support of Literacy Together’s mission to help people of all ages reach their personal and educational goals through literacy. Proceeds from the event support programs that provide volunteer tutors to more than 450 students and deliver books to over 6,600 preschool children in Buncombe County.

With additional momentum from a $30,000 matching gift challenge from the Pisgah Investments Foundation, this year’s fundraiser offers an opportunity to double the impact of community support.

Tickets are still available. Reserve your spot today.