Deerfield Event: Salute2u

Deerfield Honors First Responders

The Salute2U Drive Thru is designed as a parade-style event where Deerfield residents and staff will line the neighborhood streets, proudly holding banners and signs to show their gratitude and support for our police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other first responders. It’s our way of saying “thank you” to those who work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

As first responders drive through the Deerfield campus, they will be greeted with cheers, appreciation, and tokens of our gratitude. Every first responder will receive a special Salute2U Swag Bag filled with goodies, and they will also have the opportunity to enter a raffle to win exciting prizes like REI outdoor bundles and PS5 video gaming systems.

RSVP Link Coming Soon!

Event Details

Salute2U Drive Thru

Sep 12, 2025

Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community, 1617 Hendersonville Rd. Asheville, NC 28803

“At Deerfield, we understand the importance of the work our first responders do. Their bravery and commitment touch our lives every day, and we want to dedicate this day to express our heartfelt thanks,” said Keith Einsmann, Chief Facilities Officer of Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community. “We invite all local first responders to roll through our campus on September 12 to feel the love and appreciation from our community.”

Event Sponsors

Deerfield Charitable Foundation | Asheville Rotary | Chick-Fil-A of South Asheville
Black Bear Pizza | Texas Roadhouse

Thank you all! I just drove through and was overwhelmed with the support that the community showed us. Every one of us at the Asheville Police department appreciates the support and the love that you all showed.

- Salute2u Attendee

Thank you. This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for us in the 30 years that I’ve been with the fire department!

- Salute2u Attendee

I cannot thank you guys enough for the incredible show of support. I primarily work night shift and It is very rare, even on day shift, that we see that level of gratitude towards LEO.

- Salute2u Attendee

Thank you so much to Deerfield and the residents. It was so special to drive through and see everyone. Honestly made my year. Thank you again.

- Salute2u Attendee

Thank you all so much!!! What you did was one of the sweetest things the community has done for us!!! It definitely means a lot!!!

- Salute2u Attendee

2024 Post-Event Recap

What an incredible opportunity to celebrate service and share gratitude as Deerfield came together today to honor first responders with the Salute2U Drive Thru. Members of local law enforcement, fire stations and EMS did a drive through our campus this afternoon greeted by the applause, waves, enthusiasm and heart of our residents and staff, united in saying “thank you” to all those who serve our larger community. Over 75 first responders – plus an amazing therapy dog – shared some time with us, with each one leaving with a gift bag, a chance to win one of five great prizes and hopefully the reinforcement of how much their work matters, today and every day.

Big thanks to the volunteers who made this possible, and to the Deerfield Charitable Foundation, Asheville Rotary, Chick-Fil-A of South Asheville, Black Bear Pizza and Texas Roadhouse for making this event the incredible moment that it was. Most importantly, however, a huge thank you to the first responders who inspired this event. Let’s do it again next year!