Local non-profit to host 25th anniversary celebration
October 24, 2018
In honor of 25 years protecting and restoring the Reedy River
Through education, action, and advocacy, Friends of the Reedy River hosts a 25th Anniversary
Celebration this fall at The Huguenot Loft. From 6:30-8:30 PM on Thursday, November 1,
founders of the organization and local partners will be recognized at our biggest fundraiser of the
year. All proceeds from the event will be allocated toward projects aiming to protect recreational
and drinking waters, habitat, and overall quality of life for a healthier Reedy.
Despite being no less than an awe-inspiring river, this 65 mile long waterway is the economic
engine that drove the revitalization of downtown Greenville.
“In 1993, Tom Tiller, Ben Geer Keys, and Brad Wyche had the vision to create Friends of the
Reedy River (FoRR) as a river advocacy organization solely dedicated to the improvement,
management, and protection of the Reedy River,” said Katie Callahan, Board President of Friends
of the Reedy River. “Change does not happen overnight, and these three visionaries began a
movement that built to where we are today – the Reedy River is the iconic space of the City of
Greenville, and travels from Travelers Rest down to Lake Greenwood.”
Though small, our imprint on the City is not insignificant. Within the last 25 years FoRR has made
great contributions in helping shape the future of Greenville, including helping purchase the first
parcel of land now known as Lake Conestee Park. Two years ago a five-story office building was
set to be built downtown alongside the bridge over the river, and FoRR worked tirelessly to ensure
the river and Falls Park were not impacted by this structure.
“From preserving and improving the Reedy River to educating and involving all areas of the
Greenville community, FoRR displays an impressive history defending and advocating for such a
special community resource,” said Scott Butler, 25th Anniversary Committee Chair.
Anyone who walks the Swamp Rabbit Trail between Faris and Woodland Way cannot fail to see
our handiwork. We were also instrumental in ensuring the new Cleveland Park extension by the
former stables will become a passive park with native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. This past
May, Duke Energy Water Resources Fund awarded FoRR a $100,000 grant to help develop this
property.
The celebration will feature not only a special program honoring our founders and local partners,
but unique food offerings from CHEF360, live entertainment from electric violin duo Synergy
Twins, cash bar, and silent auction. Local businesses and organizations, ranging from ReWa and
Greenville Water to Mast General Store and Caine-Halter YMCA, have partnered with FoRR as
official hosts or sponsors of the event.
Tickets can be purchased online using the link bit.ly/25thtickets. General admission tickets are $60
per person until November 1.
Friends of the Reedy River is a 501(c) (3) non-profit, volunteer-based, conservation organization
dedicated to promoting, protecting, and restoring the Reedy River. For 25 years, Friends of the
Reedy River has carried out its work through education, action, and advocacy. We envision a safe,
clean, and accessible river corridor that enhances the quality of life for all residents, businesses,
and visitors. For more information, visit www.friendsofthereedyriver.org.
