Ministry Spotlight: June 2026
EXPLORING WHAT'S POSSIBLE
This summer, high schoolers have had the opportunity to step into workplaces across Knoxville and get a firsthand look at a variety of careers through Calling & Career Experiences.
From visiting Beaty Chevrolet, to learning about hospitality and event management at Spaces in the City, to participating in activities in the healthcare field, young people have been able to explore industries they may have never considered before.
These visits allow young people to connect what they're learning today with possibilities for the future.
Along the way, they've met professionals who shared their own career journeys, answered questions, and offered insight into the skills and experiences that helped them get where they are today. For many high schoolers, these conversations help make future goals feel more tangible and attainable.
One of the most valuable parts of the experience is simply helping youth imagine what's possible.
By exposing them to different workplaces, careers, and paths to success, Calling & Career Experiences encourages young people to think bigger, dream confidently, and begin discovering how their interests and talents can shape their future.
PLAN WELL, GIVE WELL
Did you know that donating appreciated stocks or bonds is one of the most tax-effective ways to support Emerald Youth Foundation?
Gifts of securities can offer real financial advantages, including avoiding capital gains tax on appreciated assets and qualifying for a charitable income tax deduction. It's a way to do more good while keeping more of what you've built.
Charitable giving is deeply personal. The causes closest to our hearts often reflect our own life experiences, and for many donors, a planned gift is one of the most meaningful ways to express those values. For others, it's also a smart strategy for reducing taxable income or passing on appreciated assets in a more efficient way.
A trusted financial advisor can help you explore how to accomplish both goals at once. Find out more in Part Four of our ongoing series: "The Role of Professional Advisors in Guiding Donors."
A DAY OF PLAY AT DICK'S HOUSE OF SPORT
Youth recently had the opportunity to participate in Sports Matter Day of Play at Dick’s House of Sport, a fun-filled day designed to get kids moving, try new activities, and learn healthy habits along the way.
Throughout the day, young people rotated through a variety of sports and activities, including golf, baseball, softball, soccer, and even a few friendly games of kickball (a longtime Emerald favorite!). For many, it was a chance to try something completely new while building confidence and having fun with friends.
One highlight of the day was watching everyone step outside of their comfort zones.
Whether they were swinging a golf club for the first time, practicing a new skill, or taking on the rock wall, youth encouraged one another and celebrated each accomplishment, big or small.
The rock wall quickly became a favorite as climbers faced their fears, challenged themselves, and discovered they were capable of more than they expected. Some even made it all the way to the top several times!
Events like Sports Matter Day of Play help reinforce the importance of staying active and taking care of our physical health while reminding young people that movement can be fun. More importantly, the day created opportunities for laughter, teamwork, and trying new things in a supportive environment.
By the end of the day, everyone left with tired legs, big smiles, and a few new favorite sports!
FIELD TRIPS, FUN DAYS, AND NEW EXPERIENCES
Summer Day Camp has been packed with laughter, learning, and plenty of opportunities for having fun with friends.
From Water Day and Summer Fun Days to hands-on activities and dance parties, each week has brought something new for children and youth to look forward to.
We have explored new places through field trips to destinations like the American Museum of Science and Energy, where learning came to life! These experiences give young people the chance to discover new interests and see the world around them in a different way.
At Emerald Youth, summer is about more than keeping kids busy ... it's about creating experiences that help them grow in a relationship with the Lord, stay strong in their academics, and learn to make healthy choices.
Through friendships, new experiences, and caring mentors, young people are building confidence, curiosity, and memories that will stay with them long after summer ends.
We look forward to sharing even more summer highlights next month!
SUMMER SPORTS ARE IN FULL SWING
Summer sports are underway, and young people across the city are staying active, developing skills, and building confidence through a variety of athletic opportunities.
From Learn to Swim lessons to tennis and other summer sports, it is a full season!
One highlight of the summer is the upcoming annual Elston Turner Basketball Camp, led by East Knoxville’s own Elston Turner, who currently coaches with the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves.
Each year, the camp gives young ball players the opportunity to develop their basketball skills, build confidence, learn teamwork, and connect with caring coaches and mentors in a fun and encouraging environment.
You can play an important role in helping make the Elston Turner Basketball Camp possible. Through your generous support, young people from throughout our city neighborhoods will have access to this impactful experience.
There are two convenient ways to give:
Text the keyword ELSTON to 50155 (Message and data rates may apply.)
Click Here to make an online donation
Thank you for your support to help create opportunities for players to grow both on and off the court while making lasting summer memories.
SUMMER VOLUNTEERS MAKE IT POSSIBLE
Every summer, hundreds of young people participate in Emerald Youth programs across the city, and volunteers play an important role in making those experiences possible.
From helping with day camps and sports, to mentoring young people and supporting special events, volunteers provide the extra support that helps create safe, welcoming, and engaging environments for children and teens.
Many of the moments young people remember most are possible because someone chose to show up, invest their time, and be a Christlike example in their lives.
As summer continues, there are still opportunities to get involved, including:
Flag Football Coaches
Meal Teams
Middle School Volleyball Coaches
If you've been looking for a way to make a difference in the life of a young person, we invite you to join us!
CELEBRATING OUR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
As we continue celebrating the Class of 2026, we wanted to take one more moment to recognize the incredible accomplishments of our graduating seniors.
Over the years, these students have contributed so much to the Emerald Youth community through their leadership, perseverance, service, and willingness to support one another. It has been a privilege to watch them grow into the young adults they are today.
Each graduate's story is unique, but they all share a common thread of hard work, determination, and resilience. Whether they are heading to college, entering the workforce, pursuing a trade, serving their community, or exploring other opportunities, they carry with them experiences and relationships that have helped shape who they are becoming.
We are proud of every graduate and excited to see what comes next.
As you scroll through our graduate features, we hope you'll join us in celebrating these remarkable students and the bright futures ahead of them.
Their accomplishments are worth celebrating, and we can't wait to see where their journeys take them next.
