Faith Charities mission statement is simple: Where movement begins.
It’s latest endeavor, F.E.A.S.T., is a grand soiree that will highlight the numerous resources and non-profits that are available to people in East Tennessee.
Event Organizer Teresa Sheppard has felt compelled to connect people since she started Faith Charities and feels that F.E.A.S.T. could be a launching point for similar events across the country.
“I’ve always felt the urge to bring people together,” she explained. “Everything in our country is in such an uproar and the goal of this event is to overcome some of the obstacles that were facing. People are quick to point out things on social media, but rarely do we get into how to fix things. We want to look for solutions that make sense for people. Faith Charities has a heart to connect people to each other and to the services that they need. Knoxville is at a pivotal point where we can actually make a difference and spark a movement to create positive change.”
F.E.A.S.T. stands for Food, Entertainment & Activities Because We Are Stronger Together. Sheppard wants to provide services in a fun and inviting atmosphere, where people can openly talk about things that would normally make them uncomfortable.
“We want to gather people who work on making Knoxville better and focus on mental health, crime/violence, poverty, addiction & diversity & inclusion. We will do all this in a fun and relaxed way.”
Sheppard added that there will be a healthy mix of information, food, entertainment and speakers available to attendees. “We might have a drum line on stage at one point, then a comedian, and go into a Knoxville themed Family Feud, and then into a panel presented by representatives from various non profits and agencies that help those in need.”
When people walk into the Exhibit Hall they will see a connection area where they can find out what’s going on and register for prizes. On one side there will be a trade show with more than 25 of the largest local non-profits plus numerous business booths. On the other side of the exhibit hall will be a fun zone, where there will be laser tag, slobber knockers, bingo, corn hole, face painting, a giant slide and other activities. There will also be a community forum to address some of the toughest issues we face locally and nationally.
Health screenings will also be available where folks can check their Bone Density, blood pressure and prescription medications.
Throughout the day, breakout sessions will be programmed for attendees.
“We’ll have sessions for first time home buying, disability services, financial planning, mental health, addiction, human Trafficking and more,” said Sheppard. These sessions will take place in a separate room and are free and open to the public. Each session will be 45 minutes long and will be taught by leading professionals in the area.
WVLT news anchor Alan Williams will serve as emcee and former UT Vol and current UFC star Ovince Saint Preux will do a meet and greet. Todd and Renee Kelly will also attendance.
“We’re really looking to eliminate stereotypes and we want to try to do that in a creative way. We’ve got a few games that provide information in a fun atmosphere that will surprise people and hopefully make people more aware of their surroundings.”
The event is free, but people are encouraged to get tickets before hand, if possible, so that organizers can plan accordingly. More information can be found at www.faithcharities.org.
The event will take place in the Knoxville Convention Center in Exhibit Hall B on October 23, 2016 from 11 AM – 8 PM.
