The Community House in Fentress County has spent its first year of service building out the infrastructure of the foundation.
Executive Director Rachel Kerr said the Community House offered warming facilities in the winter and the Refresh and Refuel outreach over the summer. Kerr said people’s support for the Community House was this first year’s biggest highlight.
“They see a need,” Kerr said. “They see a desire to meet those needs. And they see that coming together means we can do a lot more. And so I think the unity of what we are seeing is probably honestly one of the most beautiful things that we’ve seen this year.”
Kerr said leading the non-profit has been an eye opening experience. Kerr said the dynamics change over time, but watching it from a different perspective has helped her better understand the needs.
Kerr said in addressing some needs, there have been some full circle moments. She said a couple who visited the Community House over the winter came to the warming facility in search of housing due to some unfortunate situations. Kerr said this couple was hesitant to receive because of their giving nature.
“Through the warming facility we were able to connect them with resources,” Kerr said. “Immediately that week, we were able to connect them with housing and a steady job. And by the end of that week, they were in an apartment with consistent work and they’re thriving right now. And the beauty of that is, with our Refresh Refuel outreach, she was able to come back and serve.”
Kerr said another person received help from the Community House has also been serving as a volunteer. Kerr said lots of people come to Fentress County because of the encouraging community, even though the Community House does not yet have a permanent facility.
“We are definitely trying to be relevant, be helpful, provide resources,” Kerr said. “But at the same time, we’re still trying to acquire the funds so we can have a facility to meet the needs on a deeper level.”
Kerr said in year two, the Community House will continue to serve in the capacity it currently does. She said if more needs emerge, the organization will research them and find a way to serve those needs. In addition, Kerr said the Community House is always trying to find more funding.
Kerr said a farm to table fundraiser event will be held next month, with all proceeds going to the Community House. There will be fine dining, live music, and food from local producers. Kerr said an event like this encompasses the Community House mission, because workers have to invest time and effort to get a great result.
