A New Home, A New Start For Knoxville Family
By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
On July 16, the Knoxville Leadership Foundation gathered with the Emerald Youth Foundation family for a ribbon-cutting ceremony that opened the doors to a new beginning. The ribbon cutting wasn’t just a ceremony. It was the unlocking of dreams in a home built by hope, perseverance and community. This house is one of two born from the Neighborhood Housing Initiative, a vision to create more affordable homeownership opportunities in the Knoxville community.
Chris Martin, president of the Knoxville Leadership Foundation, spoke of the journey, a path paved with many decisions, planning and hard work. Adam Montgomery from Neighborhood Housing Inc. introduced the new homeowner, Mary Baxley, whose smile radiated the accomplishment of her dreams. Financial partners Traci Sisson from East Tennessee Foundation and Katie Moore from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency spoke on “how it takes a village.” Steve Diggs of Emerald Youth Foundation and Kevin DuBose from the City of Knoxville shared words woven with pride and possibility. Diggs quoted scripture Psalm 127:1, “Unless the Lord is part of building a house, it’s just wasted work.” He continued, “Emerald Foundation wants to ensure our families have adequate housing and support so they can continue to thrive and grow. The Lord is definitely in this place.”
Mary, the proud new owner and South Knoxville native whose children are also part of Emerald Youth Sports, thanked not just those present but also the hands that held her up along the way, especially her mother, who anchored her through a journey spanning more than three years. She spoke not of the physical structure but of a sanctuary. “This is not just an address. It’s a life-changing moment for me and my kids. We’re so excited to start memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s to new beginnings and to filling this space with those we love the most.”
Reverend Reginald Strong from Community Evangelistic Church closed the ceremony with a call to worship, sharing scripture from Deuteronomy and inviting everyone to join in. He dedicated not only the house but also the dreams that would grow inside it. After the ribbon was cut, the children laughed and played with it. Proud and excited, they led guests through each room, painting a picture of the plans for the spaces that they now call their own.
