Meet Charlie and Teresa Barnard, two incredible road warriors who have ridden over half a million miles together and raised more than $600,000 for nonprofits across the country! This summer, they’re embarking on their next epic journey—a 6,000-mile motorcycle ride through 13 states—to support a cause that is truly changing lives: East Tennessee Freedom Schools (ETFS).

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Imagine a child starting each school year further behind simply because they didn’t have access to books or enriching summer learning experiences. For too many kids, especially in underserved communities, summer break means learning loss, and the setbacks can compound year after year.

 

That’s where ETFS steps in.

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ETFS provides a six-week summer literacy and empowerment program for K-8 students in Knox and Blount Counties. More than just a reading program, ETFS inspires confidence, nurtures leadership, and instills a love of learning in every child it serves. Students receive high-quality books, mentorship, and a curriculum rooted in cultural pride and academic success—all at no cost to families.