Carry the Torch Knoxville: A Benefit Luncheon Featuring Becca Stevens, president and founder of Thistle Farms, author of “Practically Divine”

The Volunteer Ministry Center’s Carry the Torch Knoxville event on October 19, 2022, will feature Becca Stevens, president and founder of Thistle Farms, author of “Practically Divine.” A speaker, leader, priest and entrepreneur, Becca Stevens is the president of Thistle Farms, a multifaceted, international nonprofit. She founded the organization more than 20 years ago to provide a sanctuary and healing for women survivors of prostitution, trafficking and addiction not historically served. She leads important conversations across the country by speaking, writing, and heading a national network of like-minded organizations. She has helped establish justice enterprises and helped raise more than $55M in funding. The New York Times, PBS, ABC World News, NPR, CNN and the White House have all highlighted Becca and her work.

“She is a voice among many. Yet her voice is distinctive among those who envision a more loving, compassionate, and just world. VMC is honored to have the Reverend Becca Stevens as our keynote speaker for this year’s Annual Carry the Torch event,” says Dr. Bruce Spangler, CEO. “Her contagious passion and practical vision live through her writings while finding a full expression in her local and international initiatives, including Thistle Farms Residential Program in Nashville, TN.”

“Carry the Torch is vital to our fundraising efforts each year. In addition, it raises awareness about the experience of homelessness with a simple yet clear message of hope and promise of life beyond homelessness. I invite and encourage individuals, groups and organizations to attend the 2022 Carry the Torch event,” Spangler added.

The luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at the Knoxville Convention Center. For more information, contact Mary Beth Ramey at 865-524-3926, x 229 or visit carrythetorchknoxville.com. Donations to the event can be made online at vmcinc.org.

The mission of the Volunteer Ministry Center is to facilitate permanent supportive housing for those who are homeless and to provide services to prevent homelessness. To help VMC fulfill its mission, please donate at the link on the website, www.vmcinc.org.