Heartwarming and life-changing stories from A Hand UP for Women.
A Night of Celebration: The 23rd Annual Hand UP For Women Gala
💜 Over $130,000 Raised – But We’re Not Done Yet! 💜 Fundraising is still open! Every dollar helps us continue empowering women with mentorship, life skills training, and career development. 👉 Donate today by clicking here, emailing [email protected] or calling 865-525-9696. The 23rd Annual Hand UP For Women Gala was [...]
HUGS co-leaders share higher calling with program empowering Hand UP For Women graduates
The work at Hand UP for Women doesn’t stop once graduates complete the program - it’s a lifelong support system. Kim Davis and Betty Anderson have a special place in their hearts for the women they’ve helped over the years while volunteering with Hand UP for Women, a Knoxville-based nonprofit [...]
Melissa Davenport’s 180-Degree Transformation with Hand UP for Women
Born into a family marked by addiction, Melissa Davenport’s early years were full of challenges. Adopted by her aunt and uncle at a young age, Melissa longed for connection and sought it in the wrong places. Her life took a dramatic turn following her high school graduation, and it wasn’t [...]
Athena Gray’s Financial Transformation with Hand UP for Women
When Athena Gray began Hand UP for Women in 2021, she didn’t even have a bank account. Her understanding of financial literacy was limited. Through the program, Athena was able to transform her finances, learn the importance of building credit, save for large purchases and gain financial stability. From Debt [...]
A Second Chance Christmas: Michelle Schermer’s Journey of Transformation
Christmastime often brings feelings of joy, warmth, love and connection. For Michelle Schermer who had spent much of her life facing struggles, one Christmas in particular marked a turning point—a season of healing and hope.. "I’ll never forget that Christmas in 2006," Michelle shared, her voice filled with emotion. Having [...]
Gratitude in Action: Honoring the Impact of Hand UP for Women
Hand UP for Women has experienced remarkable growth and transformation for the past two decades. This success is a testament to the unwavering support from staff, volunteers, donors and the community. Together, they have spread the word about this vital ministry and contributed their time, resources, and financial support to [...]
Bid for Change: How a Fisherman’s Jersey Sparked Community Impact
Hand UP for Women has touched hundreds of women’s lives, many of whom are participants, graduates and volunteers. The organization’s home is in Knox County. But the 501(c)(3) nonprofit reaches even further. Thanks to the power of social media, a Hawkins County woman stumbled upon Hand UP and what began [...]
Overcoming Darkness: From Addiction to Redemption
Opioids, commonly known as prescription painkillers, can lead to serious consequences when misused. In Knox County alone, there have been 219 suspected drug overdose deaths as of September 2024. According to the Knox and Anderson Counties Drug-Related Death Report from the Knox County Regional Forensic Center, synthetic opioids were among [...]
Advisory Council Advantage: Two Members Propel Hand UP for Women
Asking a friend for help in a time of need can seem like a no-brainer. For Hand UP for Women, an advisory council serves a similar purpose, but on a larger level. This behind-the-scenes group plays a pivotal role in guiding and enhancing the nonprofit organization. Comprising experienced professionals and [...]
Christina Duncan’s Story: From Federal Prison to Hope for Pardon
Christina Duncan’s world was upside down. At 25 years old, she was imprisoned at Alderson Federal Prison in West Virginia for three and a half years. Thanks to completing a residential drug and alcohol program, she knocked some time off her sentence. “I always say that was probably one of [...]
Why Hand UP for Women Works
Hand UP for Women, a 501(c)(3) non-profit has grown, developed and matured with time and love since its inception in 2001. The Knox County Association of Baptists assisted with the organization’s startup, but the real momentum came when Eva Pierce was chosen as Executive Director. The organization began serving women [...]
Program Extension Builds Camaraderie and Enhances Knowledge
Expanding a program can be daunting, often seen as both a financial and time-consuming investment. Yet, for the dedicated team of staff and instructors at Hand UP for Women, extending the program from one year to a year and a half felt like the natural next step in transforming women’s [...]