Ministry Spotlight: February 2026
WHEN FAITH MEETS OPPORTUNITY
Emerald Youth Foundation alumna Odreille Uwimana is living out her purpose on a global scale. While studying finance at Berea College, she interned with Girls Who Invest, studied abroad in Rome, and traveled throughout Europe and beyond.
Along the way, she learned the importance of slowing down, practicing gratitude and thanking God daily for the journey. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when faith meets opportunity.
We are so proud of Odreille and of the many young people who strive for excellence, pursue growth and boldly step into new opportunities.
EMERALD YOUTH PRAYER BREAKFAST
Save the date and mark your calendar! The Emerald Youth Prayer Breakfast will be Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Knoxville Expo Center.
We look forward to a morning of prayer and worship, connecting with nearly 2,000 friends from across Knoxville and sharing about how God is changing the lives of young people in our city neighborhoods.
Will you consider hosting a complimentary table? We’d love to have you host and invite your friends and family!
ACADEMICS, ATHLETICS, AND JOYFUL NOISE
As the spring semester continues, young people are engaged with Emerald during after school hours at locations throughout the city. From homework help to workshops, mentoring to recreation (including a pickleball lesson!) and plenty of laughter along the way, children and youth are settled into rhythms that support both growth and connection.
This month also marked an exciting time for the Emerald Youth Choir, which held its first practice of the spring. Singers gathered to begin preparing for upcoming events and appearances (including the May 1st Prayer Breakfast) filling the Worship Arts space at Haslam-Sansom Ministry Complex – Lonsdale with a joyful noise. These early rehearsals are always special, because they bring returning voices back together while welcoming new singers into the mix.
From the arts to athletics, more than 200 young hoopsters tried out for our AAU basketball teams, boys middle school soccer is kicking off, and despite the on again, off again cold weather, baseball season is underway and swim lessons continue at our heated pool inside East Knoxville’s Dr. E.V. Davidson Community Center.
Whether youth are diving into academics, growing athletically or lifting their voices in worship, Emerald continues to be a place where young people connect and thrive. We love seeing our spaces come alive each afternoon and look forward to all the fun this semester will continue to bring.
Take a quick listen to the choir as they get ready to sing this spring!
BLACK HISTORY MONTH: HONORING STORIES THAT SHAPE OUR CITY
Black History Month offers an important opportunity to pause, reflect and celebrate the individuals, stories and milestones that have shaped Knoxville’s history. These moments remind us that our city’s story is richer and more beautiful because of those who paved the way.
Throughout February on our Emerald Youth social media, we’ve reflected on key moments in Knoxville’s Black history: stories of resilience, courage, leadership and community.
These stories matter not only because they belong to the past, but because they continue to influence the present.
They help young people understand where they come from, what others have overcome and what is possible for their own futures. We’ve enjoyed sharing these facts as a way of honoring, learning and continuing the work of building a community where every voice is heard and valued.
If you missed seeing these features on our socials, check them here:
A SMARTER WAY TO GIVE: REDIRECT TAX DOLLARS THROUGH PLANNED GIVING
With 2026 underway, now is a great time to plan for potential liquidity events on the horizon. In this short video, discover how you can redirect tax dollars into charitable impact through our partners at 25 Giving, featuring Greg Ring and Justin Lopez.
Whether it’s a business, lake or mountain house, family farm or other appreciated asset, you may benefit by converting tax dollars into giving dollars, and support organizations like Emerald Youth Foundation. Read more here and see other valuable resources on our planned giving website.
Ready to go ahead and connect with us? Email David Olive, Director of Major & Planned Gifts, or call him at 865.637.3227 ext. 254.
FROM A-E TO THE NBA
Emerald Youth Foundation was honored to present a check for $3,000 to Austin-East Magnet High School on February 7 as proceeds from last summer’s Elston Turner Basketball Camp.
The camp – held annually in July at Austin-East – is led by East Knoxville native Elston Turner, who’s an A-E alumnus and longtime NBA coach. The camp is presented in partnership with Emerald Youth. Registration for the 2026 camp will open later this spring.
On February 16, Elston took a break from his duties as an assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves to return to Knoxville for a special occasion – the basketball court dedication at A-E, where his name now graces the hardwood inside the gymnasium.
Elston is a genuine blessing to the Roadrunner community and our entire city, and Austin-East is a valued partner to Emerald Youth Foundation. When schools, organizations and supporters work together, young people benefit in lasting ways.
SERVE WITH US
Do you have a heart for Christian ministry? As the spring and summer months approach, there are a number of ways to serve with us as a volunteer or in paid roles.
Join our Kingdom calling to help raise up a large number of urban youth to love Jesus Christ and become effective leaders who help renew their communities.
Volunteer opportunities include:
Worship Arts Ministry
Support for choir rehearsals
Wednesday night worship leaders
JustLead Ministry
Serve or provide Wednesday night meals (great opportunity for small businesses or groups)
Lead small groups for elementary–high school students
Tutoring & homework helpers
Emerald Youth Sports
Track & Field coaches
Swim lesson & swim team volunteers
Calling & Career Ministry
Tutors & homework helpers
Mentors
EMERALD ACADEMY MONARCHS: IN THE CLASSROOM AND BEYOND
It’s been a full start to the spring semester at Emerald Academy.
Upper school scholars traveled to Blount County to visit Maryville College and serve at Second Harvest Food Bank. The field trip gave scholars the opportunity to dream about their future collegiate paths, while also serving their community.
Also, a group of scholars, parents and alumni headed west on I-40 to Nashville to share with Tennessee legislators about all the good things happening at the school. Experiences like this help young people recognize that leadership is not something reserved for the future, it’s something they can participate in today. The group met with State Representatives Rebecca Alexander, Michele Carringer, Elaine Davis, Justin Lafferty, Sam McKenzie, Rick Scarborough, Mark White, Dave Wright and Jason Zachary, as well as State Senators Richard Briggs and Becky Duncan Massey. A meal at In-N-Out Burger on the way home hit the spot!
Enrollment season is now underway at Emerald Academy, and school leaders look forward to welcoming new families in the ’26-’27 year to an academic community grounded in strong values and high expectations. As Knoxville’s original public charter school, Emerald Academy remains committed to academic excellence, character development and whole-child support.
Families interested in applying to enroll for next year are encouraged to attend the upcoming Parent Information Session on March 3 at 5:30 pm. RSVP here.
