July 11, 2025
^{By Ella Dumont}

Recently, our team had the opportunity to visit the Hands-on Science Center (HOSC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee. The HOSC is a dynamic learning center for children, parents and teachers, dedicated to deepening the understanding and appreciation of STEM education. Through interactive exhibits and engaging programs, the center inspires kids to grow their knowledge in science, technology, engineering and math.

During our visit, we had the chance to speak with Austin Sisco, Executive Director of HOSC. He shared insights into the center’s offerings, their mission and even gave us a tour, showing us some exciting experiments in action. Austin mentioned that with the support of this grant, they plan to purchase a second 3D printer. This addition will allow them to create even more gadgets and trinkets to aid in children’s learning. Currently, they have one 3D printer, but with two, they will be able to double the number of educational tools they produce, helping even more kids engage with STEM.

We also got to witness the creation of a new mural being painted by one of their volunteers, Soozie Lowry. She is working on a beautiful landscape mural that will enhance the fun and creativity of the exhibit. Volunteers like Soozie play a vital role at HOSC, whether they’re assisting children, helping at the front desk, or creating artwork to make the space more vibrant. When you walk into the center, you can truly feel the love and dedication the staff has not only for science but also for nurturing the growth and curiosity of every child who visits.

The center is open year-round (Friday – Sunday), with special programming in the summer. In addition to walk-in visits, they offer summer camps with weekly themes that cover topics ranging from space and geology to electronics and food science. The HOSC has opened many doors for children eager to learn more about science, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for this incredible place!

July 11, 2025
^{By Jolie Boyle}

Horse Play located in Tullahoma, Tennessee is a therapeutic recreational horseback riding program for children with special needs, ranging from ages 4-18. Founded in 1997, the organization is dedicated to their mission, focusing on enriching the lives of special needs children in their community while helping them foster independence and self-confidence. Horse Play creates opportunities for growth, connection and enjoyment with their rehabilitation and recreational riding program.

The program originally started with four children and needed to borrow horses for recreation. This was the start of what they called their “Pilot Program.” Currently the program serves 50 plus children and owns two horses while leasing six others. Over 70 community volunteers, including several former members of the program who returned to give back to the organization that once supported them, assist with horse leading, lessons and horse care.

The facility features 17 acres and includes a large riding arena with an eight-stall stable for the horses and fields for the horses to run and play after lessons.

On June 27, we had the incredible opportunity to learn more about the organization and witness a session with five students taking place. Horse Play received a $5,000 grant which funded new saddles for their riders. We spent the morning getting to know the staff, volunteers, parents and program founder. They all shared their passion for the organization and we witnessed the joy and independence experienced by children. The horses were trained to react to certain gestures and vocal cues, and each child showed their ability riding and communication with the horses. The children's confidence and sense of freedom are greatly enhanced by these interactions.

Horse Play is more than just a program, it's a sense of community and growth.

July 2, 2025
^{By Jolie Boyle}

We had the opportunity to visit New Leash on Life, located in Lebanon, Tennessee, on Monday, June 2. This organization is an animal rescue with a mission dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals in the community through shelter, placement, spay/neuter services, education and awareness. Goals are set to educate the public about the importance of spaying and neutering while also showing the public how adopting a pet will provide them with a loving and secure home.

During the visit, we were able to see and learn more about how New Leash on Life will use its grant money. Our grant is going to help pets by providing low-cost rabies vaccines and youth education materials for people across Middle Tennessee. Additionally, we learned that the organization is planning to renovate the shelter to make for a more welcoming area for possible adopters to meet the animals.

The entire staff and their volunteers are extremely passionate about each animal’s well-being. We enjoyed seeing all the work they do and how they create a loving environment for the animals in their care.

June 18, 2025
^{By Ella Dumont}

The Nashville Predators had the opportunity to host one of Cottage Cove Ministry’s summer field trips at Ford Ice Center Bellevue. Cottage Cove Ministries is a faith-driven nonprofit whose mission is “to provide educational opportunities, life skills, cases, and training in the arts through the power and in the name of Jesus Christ.” Founded in 1995, Cottage Cove offers after-school and summer programming across three locations in the city. They serve at-risk youth by teaching them about academic support, arts and practical development, helping young people build confidence and creativity in a nurturing Christian community.

Along with tutoring and homework help, students are taught life skills including communication, healthy habits and goal setting. They also have the opportunity to learn about the arts. Whether it be performing or visual art, the kids are given a platform to showcase themselves which allows for self-expression and exploration. Throughout all these programs, the kids can grow academically and personally which will help set them up for long-term success.

Each summer, the Preds Foundation hosts a variety of "Kids on Ice" sessions, where charities are invited to one of the Ford Ice Centers for skating and a lunch. Cottage Cove joined us for a session on June 18th. The kids and staff enjoyed a fun skate and were joined by Nashville Predators alumnus J.P. Dumont. The opportunity to skate allowed the kids to try something new and interact with a professional athlete. This field trip is one of many that Cottage Cove gets to have in the summer. The Predators Foundation was so glad that we got the opportunity to help them grow not only as kids but on the ice as skaters as well!

August 15, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

In the heart of Spring Hill, The Well Spring Hill has a well-established food pantry that is constantly growing. They hope to strengthen the community; serving many individuals and families in need is the heart behind this food pantry. Recently, the Predators Foundation had the privilege of visiting The Well Spring Hill during a grant visit, where we witnessed firsthand their incredible impact on the community. Upon arrival, we were struck by the scale of The Well's operations. Serving a community that has seen a significant rise in food insecurity over the past five years, The Well Spring Hill has doubled its efforts to meet the needs of its residents. With a capacity to serve up to 6,000 people, The Well Spring Hill operates at full throttle, ensuring no one goes hungry. Each visit is meticulously organized, with volunteers checking in with them for an average of 40 minutes to ensure every family receives essential groceries and asks how they are doing. The dedication of over 600 volunteers per week, comprising 90% of the workforce, underscores the community's commitment to caring for its own. 

What sets The Well Spring Hill apart is not just its provision of food but its approach to community care. Volunteers, the backbone of The Well Spring Hill, actively listen to and engage with visitors, making each person feel seen and valued. This personal touch extends to the distribution process, where volunteers not only bag groceries but also assist in transporting them to visitors' cars. Something we got to hear more about was the Jetpack Program. It is a testament to The Well Spring Hill's innovation in tackling food insecurity among school children. Providing 1,400 packs weekly to over 30 schools, this initiative ensures that children have access to nutritious meals outside school hours. Partnering with Second Harvest, the program has evolved to include foods familiar and enjoyable to kids, ensuring both nourishment and dignity. The Well Spring Hill's impact extends beyond its walls. They secure essential donations and sponsorships through partnerships with local businesses, churches, and community groups. These collaborations enable The Well to expand its reach and provide even more support to those in need. In a world where food insecurity is a harsh reality for many, The Well Spring Hill is a testament to what a community can achieve when it comes together. Their dedication to feeding people and deeply caring about each person who enters the building is a reminder that compassion and action can genuinely transform lives. In conclusion, by providing not just food but dignity and hope, they are shaping a future where everyone has access to the necessity of nourishment. It takes a community to feed a community, and The Well Spring Hill embodies this ethos every day.

August 15, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

The Well Mount Pleasant location is more than just a food pantry; it is a community hub where dignity, innovation, and compassion intersect. During our recent grant visit, the Nashville Predators Foundation had the opportunity to explore the remarkable work being done at this location, which serves as a lifeline for hundreds of families. The Well Mount Pleasant has seen tremendous growth, now serving up to 1,200 families—an impressive leap from the 150 families it supported initially. With the capacity to assist 60 families an hour, The Well ensures that every visitor receives food, respect, and care. Personal shoppers guide guests through the pantry, where they can choose items, echoing a grocery store experience. This attention to dignity is central to The Well's mission, ensuring that quality and choice are never compromised.

 One of the standout features of The Well Mount Pleasant is its commitment to providing high-quality, fresh food. By introducing hydroponic farming, the pantry is growing its vegetables, aiming to produce 1,000 servings of fresh lettuce and eventually expanding to other crops. This initiative, supported by a fellowship grant, reflects The Well's forward-thinking approach to addressing food insecurity while promoting healthy eating. The Well Mount Pleasant's vision extends beyond immediate food assistance. Their free coffee shop is a testament to their desire to build community spaces where people can connect. Plans are in place to expand this into a full-fledged coffee shop, reinforcing The Well as a community gathering place. 

Behind the scenes, The Well Mount Pleasant operates a well-oiled machine. With 80 pallet spots in its warehouse and partnerships with 29 stores for food rescue, it is continually adapting to meet growing demands. Walk-in freezers are being added to accommodate more food donations, and innovative inventory scanning systems help manage the flow of goods between locations. 

Beyond food distribution, The Well Mount Pleasant is deeply invested in creating lasting change. The "Our Chance" program, developed in collaboration with Martha O'Brien and Second Harvest, provides family coaching to break the cycle of poverty. By working closely with 42 families over three years, The Well provides a safety net and paves the way for self-sufficiency and economic independence through promoting Family coaching. As we left The Well Mount Pleasant, I was inspired by the team's and volunteers' passion and dedication. Their work is a powerful reminder that addressing food insecurity requires providing food and fostering community and empowerment. The Well Mount Pleasant is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. They are feeding people and cultivating hope, dignity, and a brighter future for all. Those looking to make a difference should consider supporting The Well Mount Pleasant through donations or volunteering.

August 15, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

The Boys & Girls Teen Club is more than just a safe space for teens; it's a dynamic environment where young people are encouraged to explore their interests, build leadership skills, and form lasting connections. During our recent grant visit, the Predators Foundation had the chance to see the incredible club, and it's clear that this is a place where teens are empowered to thrive. Welcoming teens as young as 13, the club offers a structured yet fun environment for middle and high schoolers. High schoolers often take on leadership roles, setting a positive example for younger members. Programs like resume building and public speaking competitions, where participants present in front of a panel of judges, help prepare teens for future success. The club also hosts the "Youth of the Year" competition, a prestigious event recognizing outstanding teen members' contributions and achievements. The Boys & Girls Teen Club is designed with teens in mind, offering a range of activities that appeal to different interests.

As we visited the space, we saw each room and how it is specific to young adults. First, we saw the commons area, a hub of activity, with foosball, carpet ball, ping pong, and other games providing plenty of entertainment. Thanks to funding from the Nashville Predators, the club also has a small indoor basketball court, a popular spot for physical activity and teamwork. Next, we saw the fitness room dedicated to training and developing healthy habits and working toward personal goals—whether it was getting fit or even dreaming of going pro one day. Understanding the interests of today's teens, the club has invested in a state-of-the-art PC room with gaming systems like the PS5 and Oculus. These tools are not just for entertainment; they are used to teach life lessons and foster teamwork and problem-solving skills. The club also offers unique opportunities, such as a cosmology club, where members can explore the science of beauty and skincare. The Boys & Girls Teen Club ensures its programs are engaging and relevant year-round. 

One of the club's key strengths is its accessibility. With higher volumes of teens enrolled, the club provides transportation services, picking up high schoolers and bringing them to the club after school. This ensures that more teens can benefit from the club's programs, regardless of their transportation situation. The club is constantly looking for ways to serve its members better. One of the main goals is to increase teen participation by extending hours of operation after school. The club is also experimenting with "Teen Nights," specially designed to meet the interests and schedules of teen members. The club offers targeted programs that address the specific needs of its members. Programs like "Smart Girls" and "Passport to Manhood" allow teens to discuss important topics, learn life skills, and form meaningful relationships. Whether during the school year or summer, the club maintains strong attendance, offering a range of activities, including exciting field trips that broaden the teens' horizons. 

As we wrapped up our visit, it was clear that the Boys & Girls Teen Club is more than just a place to hang out after school. It's a community where teens are supported, challenged, and inspired to become the best versions of themselves. With ongoing efforts to expand and adapt their offerings, the club is poised to make an even more significant impact on the lives of its members.

August 1, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

Our Community Relations team had the privilege of visiting Men of Valor who are committed to “winning men in prison to Jesus Christ and discipline them”. Their purpose is to equip them to re-enter society as men of integrity – becoming givers to the community rather than takers. Men of Valor gives men that have been incarcerated another opportunity to change their life for the better. This program gives them another step to give life and learn skills to benefit them in the long run. This visit was not only an eye-opening experience but also a testament to the power of community support and holistic rehabilitation programs.

Men of Valor’s mission is centered around restoring men to their rightful roles in society by providing them with the tools, support, and guidance they need to reintegrate successfully. Their comprehensive program focuses on spiritual development, life skills, job training, and emotional support. Through their faith-based approach, Men of Valor aims to reduce recidivism rates and help these men build stable, productive lives post-incarceration.

During our visit, we were warmly welcomed by the Men of Valor team and given a tour of their facilities. We had the opportunity to see where these men are living, their property, garden and chickens. It was inspiring to see the genuine dedication of the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to create a nurturing and empowering environment. We also learned about the various phases of their program, from the initial intake and residential phase to ongoing support and mentorship after graduation. The organization’s focus on providing a stable, structured environment allows participants to break the cycle of incarceration and build a future filled with opportunities.

The grant awarded to Men of Valor will be instrumental in expanding their reach and impact. Specifically, the Predators Foundation gave 1,500 dollars to cover backpacks and school supplies for the children of the men who Men of Valor serve. We were deeply moved by the passion and commitment of everyone involved with Men of Valor. This organization is making a significant difference in the lives of the men they serve, as well as in the broader community. Our partnership with Men of Valor is a vital part of our commitment to supporting initiatives that foster positive change and empowerment. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of their programs, and we look forward to staying connected with their mission. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Men of Valor for the important work you do. We are honored to play a small role in your journey towards making a lasting impact on the lives of so many.

July 26, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

Today, we had the opportunity to visit the Blind Early Services of Tennessee (BEST) summer camp. This free, inclusive program for blind students encourages literacy, sensory engagement, social interaction and recreational activities through well-planned events.

BEST was founded in 2020 by two mothers of blind or visually impaired sons. Recognizing a need for support among families with visually impaired children, they established BEST to provide tailored resources and training. BEST’s programs include support, parent empowerment, early intervention, and early screening. Their mission is to empower and equip families through specialized programs, with a focus on continuing support for blind and visually impaired young children and their families. 

The Predators Foundation awarded BEST a Helper Grant to support their summer camp program. This program allows young children to attend camp free of charge, participate in games, experience various therapies and interact with peers who share similar experiences. Understanding that not all summer camps can accommodate children with visual impairments, BEST created a space where these children can enjoy a typical camp experience.

Seeing the work that BEST does for these young children and their families is incredibly inspiring and we are proud to support their efforts.

July 19, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

Recently our team visited the Boys and Girls Club of Rutherford County. During our visit, we learned more about this specific location, the number of children it serves, and the impact of the Helper Grant. 

The Boys and Girls Club of Rutherford County is dedicated to providing a safe, enriching, encouraging, and positive environment for students who need it most. The club has reached over 2,500 students and hosts around 170 students daily throughout the summer. Their programs include art classes, college support, financial education, physical activity, tutoring, literacy support, drug and alcohol education, cooking classes and leadership training. Students attending the club have a safe place to express themselves while learning essential life skills. 

The grant provided by the Predators Foundation helped purchase bikes for their new pump track, a bike course designed with bumps and banked turns to be ridden without pedaling. Instead, riders are meant to use body movement to pump the bike up and down. We had the opportunity to see this course in action when two of the students did a demonstration. The course gives students the ability to try something new, ride it as a beginner, and eventually work their way up to the track and pumping the bikes. Watching the kids enjoy the course was incredibly special and highlighted the unique impact of the Foundation and grant visits.

July 24, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

At The Center For The Arts in Murfreesboro, our team had the opportunity to watch the students from the Center Stage Academy perform a segment of their upcoming show, 13. The Center is dedicated to enhancing the community’s quality of life by promoting the arts.

The Center For The Arts opened its doors in 1995 and became an independent 501(c)(3) organization in 2008. The building in Murfreesboro, Tenn. previously served as a post office and a library and is now the group's home theater. Since opening, it has hosted numerous shows, art exhibits, vocal school sessions, and dance performances. With various programs, the center aims to spread the arts and reach a variety of groups throughout the community. The main stage program features about 10-14 shows annually, welcoming the community to enjoy each one. Additionally, Center Stage Academy offers camps for students from kindergarten through high school. Students prepare and perform a show during one to two-week-long camps, .

Beyond theater, the Center hosts an art gallery with a rotating collection of works from different artists. The gallery also serves as a gathering area before and after shows as well as a rehearsal space for the actors.

The Helper Grant awarded to The Center for the Arts supports student scholarships. As camps can often be expensive, the Foundation provided this grant to help alleviate the financial burden of students who cannot afford to attend.

Witnessing students’ passion for theater firsthand, we are proud to support the Center and partner with them in fostering the quality of life through the arts.

July 16, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

On July 16th, our team had the honor of getting to know John McFadden and Jen Liepis of Green Interchange. Green Interchange is a group with a mission to plant trees and sustain a healthy environment for healthier communities and economies. They are passionate about planting trees in places that directly benefit people and taking action to help our air, water, and community. These places include but are not limited to roads, waterways, and public spaces. 

Founded in 2020, Green Interchange started with the goal to absorb carbon emissions along roadways. Since then, they have planted over 40,000 trees and look forward to growing this number. Each year, the group organizes a program called Plant a Tree Tennessee, which aims to distribute trees throughout Tennessee in order to improve the environment. 

Green Interchange's Helper Grant will help create a youth program to engage kids in fun and educational ways, all while restoring Garrison Creek in Murfreesboro. At this event, children and their families work to remove invasive plants, plant native plants, and create Little Free Libraries, decked out by the Preds. 

Green Interchange is continuously growing and you can help! If you would like to volunteer, you can find opportunities here. We appreciate the work Green Interchange is doing throughout Tennessee and are proud to aid in their efforts.

July 15, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

Upscale Thrift Store
TenThirtyFive operates an upscale thrift store with a mission: allowing at-risk young women to shop for free. This initiative not only provides essential items to those in need but also fosters a sense of community and support. Upon entering, they are welcomed with a voucher to shop for clothing, shoes, accessories, and more. Each visit includes a bag of beauty care and hygiene products to take home. To help fund this full-time charity, the thrift store is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., inviting women in the community to shop and support the cause.

Serving a Wider Audience
Initially targeting girls aged 10-25, TenThirtyFive has expanded to support any needy woman. Whether a woman recently released from prison or someone referred by organizations like the Office of Family Safety, YWCA, or Women of Worth can shop and obtain essential items. The store features a variety of clothing, from activewear to professional attire, shoes, and bags, catering to diverse needs and preferences.

Open to the Public
TenThirtyFive's upscale thrift store is open to the public to sustain its operations. With items ranging from affordable jeans and tops to high-end donations from brands like Target and Jimmy Choo, there's something for everyone. Jewelry and other accessories are also available, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience. By opening the store to the public, TenThirtyFive generates funds to support its voucher program and outreach efforts.

Community Support and Growth
Boutiques, influencers, and the community have played a significant role in TenThirtyFive's growth, often spreading the word and donating items. This collective effort has allowed TenThirtyFive to serve a wider audience and provide continuous support to those in need. Repeat customers referred by various organizations can receive vouchers every three months, ensuring continuous support. With vouchers worth $100 and items priced between $5 and $12, women can build a wardrobe over a year, shopping in a dignified, welcoming environment.

Expanding Reach
TenThirtyFive began with a mobile store, partnering with local charities to provide clothing. The initial challenges of sourcing the correct items and sizes led to establishing their central location, a store in Mount Juliet and another store across the street. Clothing became a hub to bring women together, fostering a sense of community and support.

Supporting TenThirtyFive
TenThirtyFive thrives on community and grant support. The store has become self-sustainable in five years, employing seven part-time staff. Their philosophy is simple: when we look good, we feel good. By empowering women to feel their best, TenThirtyFive instills confidence, dignity, and worth, regardless of their situation.

Get Involved
Support TenThirtyFive by shopping at their upscale thrift store, donating items, or contributing to their initiatives. Donating items is easy-simply drop them off at any of their stores during operating hours. A small contribution, like sponsoring a shoe drive for just $10, can make a significant difference. Join TenThirtyFive in their mission to uplift and empower women, one outfit at a time.

July 8, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

On July 8th, our team was privileged to visit with the founder and executive director of Candle Wishes, Jenny Williams. In 2002 as a 17-year-old high school student, Williams recognized a need for underprivileged kids to be celebrated on their birthdays. While many organizations focus on winter holidays, birthdays often go unnoticed. Feeling a calling to fill this gap, Williams has dedicated the past 22 years to fulfilling children’s birthday wishes. 

Candle Wishes hosts monthly birthday parties for the children with upcoming birthdays. These events provide a day of fun for the children and their families, and each child goes home with a birthday present. Candle Wishes has made over 700 kids' birthday wishes come true annually. 

The organization relies on sponsors to provide gifts for the children. Individuals or organizations can sponsor a child by shopping for their wants and needs, and ensuring the personalized gift is memorable. Candle Wishes will collect the child's wish list of wants and needs to make this achievable. If there is ever a time that a child is not sponsored, Candle Wishes will use collected items and money from donors to fulfill those dreams. 

The Helper Grant from the Predators Foundation will be used to purchase gifts and continue making birthdays special for these children. 

To get involved, sponsor a child, or donate, please visit CandleWishes.com.

July 1, 2024
^{By Emma Neely}

Archie's Promise is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering economically disadvantaged families, displaced youth, and adults by providing affordable formal and business wear and free hygiene products. Their mission began with a simple yet profound goal: to help individuals and families build confidence and self-esteem by making essential items accessible and affordable. Whether it's donating formal wear for a special need’s prom, assisting individuals with interview attire, or reselling business and formal wear at discounted prices, Archie's Promise is here to ease the financial burden on their community and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to look and feel their best for any business casual, semi-formal, or formal event.

Through its innovative approach, Archie's Promise addresses multiple needs. The organization offers affordable formal and business wear, crucial for events like proms or job interviews, where appearances can significantly impact opportunities. Donations and partnerships ensure that no one faces financial barriers when dressing for success.

Recognizing the essential need for hygiene products, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, Archie's Promise took proactive steps to address this gap. They started by hosting local hygiene drives, but wanted to make it more personalized. They researched and collaborated with the Street Team Movement organization to install hygiene vending machines in local schools. These machines provide free products tailored to each school's needs, ensuring accessibility without stigma.

Our grant funded a hygiene machine that will be sent to Smyrna Middle School and set up before school starts. This will allow a more significant impact that extends beyond direct assistance. In the schools, they have created "hope cards," which are like credit cards for students so that when they need something, they can use it. This allows students to grab what they need quickly and efficiently.

Ordering new machines and specializing the products that will go into the machine so nothing will get stuck has been a game changer with this new innovative way to give out hygiene products. When they order the machines, they send the products that will go to the vending machines so they can make sure nothing gets stuck. There are now over 10 schools that will have these machines available in their own schools, and the number is only growing.

Local drives and partnerships, including an Amazon wish list for donations, allow community members to contribute actively. These efforts support ongoing initiatives such as the hygiene vending machines and ensure sustainability in meeting diverse community needs. Looking ahead, Archie's Promise continues to expand its reach and impact. With ongoing support crucial, especially for items like plus-size to size 0-1 formal wear and specific hygiene products, community involvement remains vital. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, everyone's contribution is integral to empowering individuals and families through Archie's Promise.

Archie's Promise exemplifies how targeted formal wear and hygiene support can uplift communities, fostering confidence and opportunity where needed most. By addressing material and emotional needs, the organization provides tangible resources and cultivates a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

June 27, 2024
^{By Jade Zaleski}

On June 27, our team met with Assurance Mamas via Zoom. Assurance Mamas is an organization that provides assurance to caregivers regarding the safety of their children while at school and childcare centers. 

Assurance Mamas has a vulnerability threat assessment which includes a review of security procedures, equipment, and action plans with blueprints. After the assessment, a list of recommendations will be given to strengthen the facility and procedures. 

With the support of the Nashville Predators Foundation, Assurance Mamas will be able to fund a portion of their training program. Their program helps train faculty and staff school or childcare centers how to protect the children and themselves if a threat were to happen.

June 20, 2024
^{By Erin Young}

Last week, the Community Relations team had the honor of visiting BrightStone in Franklin. BrightStone is a community dedicated to helping, supporting, and fostering adults with special needs. They recently moved to their 140-acre “Land of Dreams” campus, featuring an outstanding center with plans for future expansion.

BrightStone started in 1999 to provide a place for adults with special needs transferring out of high school. Initially, they served only four students and their families. As the initiative grew, BrightStone recognized a need for expansion. In 2007, the group moved into their first building, designed to accommodate their growing community and marking the start of BrightStone’s significant growth.

Now, on their new “Land of Dreams,” the vision of creating a thriving community is becoming a reality. BrightStone offers daily programs such as lifelong learning, where students explore topics such as emotional well-being and healthy relationships. There are also programs for art, pottery, gardening, exercise, music, and cooking. These activities provide students with opportunities to pursue their interests under the guidance of dedicated teachers and staff. One of these teachers, Sherri Gard, has devoted 17 years of her life to BrightStone, driving four hours each day, five days a week, to teach cooking to these students.

In addition to these daily programs, BrightStone has built two residential homes and launched a residential program. In this program students live with three other students and a house manager, learning essential life skills like cooking, cleaning, and independent living. This program was made possible by the expansion to their new campus.

In the coming years, BrightStone plans to further expand its facilities to create a community not only for its students but also for outside visitors. They aim to build a sports court, walking paths, 22 additional residential houses, a chapel and event center, a fishing dock, a medical clinic, an equestrian center, and more. This expansion will enable them to serve more individuals and welcome students from a broader community, addressing the unique needs of each student.

With the support of the Predators Foundation, BrightStone was able to purchase another kiln for their ceramics room. Here, students create handmade pottery, following each step of the process, to sell and raise funds for the organization. The addition of another kiln will expedite production and allow more student creations to reach the shelves.

This visit was nothing short of inspiring and fulfilling. Our team interacted with students, admired their art and pottery, watched them play outside, and learned about the outstanding program BrightStone is dedicated to creating. We are proud of our connection with BrightStone and look forward to our continued partnership with them in the future.