Stories of the Hope

Title: Spreading Hope in the Heart of Appalachia: The Inspiring Story of Alma EversoleIntroduction: In the snowy valleys of Kentucky, where the cold winds often mirror the struggles of the community, Alma Eversole stands as a beacon of hope. Through her dedicated service with Team Alma Ministries, she provides much-needed support and resources to families facing hardship in the Appalachian region. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges she confronts, and the unwavering spirit that drives her mission.Section 1: Who is Alma Eversole?Alma Eversole is more than just a community leader; she is a lifeline for many in Knot County and its surrounding areas. With a team of dedicated volunteers, Alma works tirelessly to alleviate the burdens faced by families, particularly students in her local vocational school. With her roots deeply embedded in her community, Alma goes above and beyond, often traveling as far as Florida to extend her support. Her commitment to helping others is evident in every action she takes.Section 2: The Challenges in Knot CountyKnot County, like many parts of Appalachia, faces significant economic challenges. Once thriving due to coal mining, the area now struggles with a lack of businesses and essential services. Alma explains that there is only one grocery store in the county, forcing families to travel miles for food. This economic decline has led to increased poverty and, sadly, a rise in drug addiction among local youth. Alma’s observation that many children return home after seeking opportunities elsewhere only to find a lack of resources is a poignant reminder of the systemic issues at play.Section 3: Alma's Mission of HopeAlma's mission is simple yet profound: to help her community. She collects essential items such as hygiene products, clothing, and food, organizing giveaways for families in need. By leveraging social media, she reaches out to the community, offering support and kindness. For Alma, each act of giving is not just a service; it’s a way to remind individuals that they are not alone in their struggles. She shares that helping others brings her joy and purpose, especially knowing that her contributions can ease someone’s burden, allowing them to focus on other essential needs, like medicine.Section 4: The Impact of Natural DisastersThe region has been hit hard by natural disasters, compounding the struggles faced by families. Alma recounts the devastating floods of recent years, which displaced many residents, including her own family. Despite her own challenges, including her battle with cancer, Alma remains steadfast in her commitment to serve. She recognizes that many families are still living in tents and are vulnerable to the harsh winter weather. Her relentless efforts to provide warming centers and assistance demonstrate her profound empathy and resilience.Section 5: A Personal Journey of Faith and ServiceAlma’s drive to help others stems from her deep faith and personal experiences. Having faced her own battles with cancer while caring for her special-needs daughter, she made a promise to God that she would dedicate her life to helping others if she survived. This promise has shaped her life's work, guiding her decisions and fueling her passion for service. Alma explains, "If you got two shirts and someone needs something, give one away." This philosophy underscores her commitment to community and compassion.Conclusion: Key TakeawaysAlma Eversole’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the impact one person can have on their community. Her unwavering dedication to helping those in need, despite her own hardships, highlights the importance of compassion and community support in overcoming adversity. Alma’s work exemplifies how love and service can transform lives, proving that hope can flourish even in the darkest of times.

In this heartfelt episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with Ray Perry, Executive Director of Pinnacle Resource Center in Huntsville, Tennessee. Ray shares the inspiring story of how he rose from a childhood in poverty to lead a nonprofit that's transforming lives in one of Tennessee's most impoverished counties.Discover the realities of rural Scott County, the innovative ways Pinnacle meets immediate needs while building long-term empowerment, and the power of partnerships (including with Mission of Hope). Ray opens up about his personal journey, a pivotal moment that steered him away from law, and why he feels called to give others the "hand up" he once received.If you're passionate about community impact, homelessness prevention, job training, or faith-driven service, this episode is full of hope and practical inspiration.Guest: Ray Perry, Executive Director, Pinnacle Resource CenterHost: Benson GregoryPodcast: Stories of the Hope – A Mission of Hope PodcastThe challenges and beauty of life in rural Scott County, Tennessee (population ~35-36,000, high poverty rates, limited economic opportunities)How past industries shifted away, leaving many without modern job-search skills (e.g., no email, no online applications)Pinnacle's person-centered approach based on Maslow's hierarchy of needs – meeting physiological basics first (food, shelter, clothing, hygiene) before long-term planningInnovative programs: computer access, job application assistance, and a new paid internship program in partnership with Nimble (tech assembly and skills training)Preventing homelessness through school partnerships, family support, and helping those on the "brink" who fall into aid gapsRay's personal story: Growing up in poverty, overcoming statistical odds, a disillusioning pre-law experience, and returning to serve his communityThe tragic loss of founder Jerry Voyles and how Ray stepped in during a financial crisis (from $437 in the bank to a ~$500K annual budget)The vital partnership with Mission of Hope – rapid delivery of beds for a family of 9 and why collaboration beats competition among nonprofitsPinnacle Resource Center Website:https://pinnacleresourcecenter.org/ (Learn more about services, donate, view immediate needs, or explore resources)Contact Ray Perry directly: (423) 201-2566 (prefers text)Phone (general): (423) 663-3333Email:help@pinnacleresourcecenter.orgLocation: Serves Scott, Campbell, and Morgan counties (main campus in Huntsville, TN)Mission of Hope: [Insert your organization's website/podcast page if available]If this episode moved you, consider supporting the work at Pinnacle Resource Center:Visit pinnacleresourcecenter.org to donate or learn how to helpText or call Ray at (423) 201-2566 to ask questions or get involvedShare this episode with someone who needs encouragement or wants to make a difference in their communityThanks for listening to Stories of the Hope! Subscribe for more inspiring conversations about resilience, service, and bringing light to those in need. See you next time!

🎙️ Stories of the HopeGuest: Rob HarlamertTitle: Lead PastorOrganization: Elevate Christian ChurchLocation: Lexington, KentuckyWhy We Keep Showing Up — Rob Harlamert on Generosity, Consistency, and Mission of HopeIn this episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory is joined by Rob Harlamert, Lead Pastor of Elevate Christian Church in Lexington, Kentucky, to talk about what it looks like for a church to consistently show up for a school it has no direct connection to, and why that matters.Rob shares how Elevate partnered with Mission of Hope to serve a small Appalachian school more than two hours away, participating in back-to-school distributions, Christmas deliveries, emergency needs, and annual shoe-and-sock drives. What began as one opportunity among many quickly became a defining rhythm for the church.The conversation explores the unique challenge pastors face when countless organizations ask for partnership, and how churches must discern where their people can make the greatest impact. Rob explains why Mission of Hope stood out: the infrastructure was already in place, the school wanted the partnership, and the focus remained on relationships rather than one-off events.Rob also reflects on how generosity shapes a young church’s identity, pushing back against the idea that churches should “hold back” in their early years. Instead, he argues that shared generosity unifies a congregation and creates lasting spiritual fruit.One of the most sobering moments comes when Rob recounts a Christmas delivery where a young student declined a gift, fearing it would be sold for drugs. The moment reinforced for him why consistent presence matters, and why he is committed to returning year after year.This episode is an honest look at ministry without romanticism: real kids, real need, real joy, and the conviction that if God is already at work somewhere, the right response is to join in.Why Elevate Church chose to partner with Mission of HopeHow churches evaluate partnership opportunitiesGenerosity as a core church valueThe difference between transactional service and relational ministryWhat consistent presence communicates to students and staffWhy “plug-and-play” ministry enables deeper impact“If you’re unsure what God wants you to do, go where He’s already working.”“When the whole church rallies around one thing, you accomplish something bigger than yourself.”“God was there before we ever got there.”Mission of Hope: https://missionofhope.orgVolunteer, donate, or learn how to serve a school.

Guest: Bob Lofsted – Mission of Hope Volunteer, Knoxville TNHost: Benson GregoryThis episode features volunteer driver and warehouse team member Bob Lofsted, who shares how retirement didn’t slow him down — it redirected him. A former educator with a love for hands-on work, Bob now spends his time driving Mission of Hope’s 26-foot box truck deep into eastern Kentucky, delivering supplies, supporting Mountain Ministry Centers, and encouraging frontline workers who serve families year-round.He explains how he first discovered Mission of Hope, why the work clicked with him immediately, and how volunteering has become more fulfilling than his decades-long career in public education. Bob also tells the remarkable story of a woman in Jackson, Kentucky, who began a ministry simply by calling the 800-number on a water bottle and watching God grow it into something much larger.Throughout the conversation, Bob keeps coming back to the real mission: sharing Christ, supporting those who serve their communities daily, and meeting physical needs so spiritual needs can be heard.How Bob found Mission of Hope after retiringMoving from warehouse volunteer to delivery driverHow the Knoxville warehouse team operatesThe importance of meeting physical needs to open spiritual doorsMountain Ministry Centers and what daily ministry looks like in rural AppalachiaThe story of a Jackson, KY woman whose ministry started with a single phone callPartnerships with churches, community centers, and God’s WarehouseWhat deliveries typically include (clothing, food, water, household items, mattresses)Why volunteering creates purpose, community, and spiritual fulfillmentOpportunities for people of any ability level to serveEvents like the golf tournament and clay shoot that need extra help“There are no small parts. Every task carries weight when the goal is sharing Christ.”“If what we’re doing doesn’t represent Christ, then it’s just another benefits organization — and that’s not why we’re here.”“Retirement isn’t about quitting work. It’s about refocusing your work on what matters.”“She looked at a bottle of water, saw an 800-number, made one call, and God built a ministry from it.”If you’d like to volunteer, donate, or find your place in Mission of Hope’s ministry:👉 missionofhope.orgVolunteers are needed for warehouse help, deliveries, special events, Christmas programs, and more. Valerie in the Mission of Hope office can help get you placed.Host & Producer: Benson GregoryCo-Producer: Becky MillsThanks for listening and sharing this episode of Stories of the Hope.Episode SummaryTopics CoveredKey QuotesLearn More / Get InvolvedCredits

🎧 Stories of the Hope – Serving Appalachia with Henderson SettlementGuest: John D. Newman, Executive Director of Henderson SettlementHost: Benson GregoryOrganization: Mission of HopeIn this episode of Stories of the Hope, we welcome John D. Newman, Executive Director of Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky. Nestled deep in the mountains near the Kentucky–Tennessee border, Henderson Settlement has spent nearly a century providing not just food, clothing, and housing support — but also dignity, education, and the hope of Christ.John shares the story of Henderson’s beginnings as a church and school in 1925, its evolution into a full-scale ministry meeting physical and spiritual needs, and the unique challenges of serving one of the most isolated regions in Appalachia. You’ll also hear how Mission of Hope steps in to bridge critical gaps — from diapers for newborns to food boxes for families and school supplies for hundreds of children.📍 Remote Ministry Roots – Henderson Settlement was founded to serve families so rural they nicknamed the region “South America” because of its isolation.🏫 From Schoolhouse to Full Ministry – What began as a pastor’s vision for education has grown into programs serving children, youth, and seniors alike.👶 Meeting Everyday Needs – Through its “Moms and Infants” program, Henderson Settlement supports around 70 young children with diapers, baby beds, strollers, and more.🥫 Feeding Families – Each month, the ministry distributes food boxes to more than 450 families and seniors, while providing 150 USDA-supported senior commodity boxes — with many more on the waiting list.🛠 Volunteers at Work – Over 1,200 mission team members travel to Frakes each year, building ramps, repairing homes, and even constructing new houses for families in need.🤝 Mission of Hope’s Role – MOH provides essential supplies, school support, and emergency help — ensuring Henderson Settlement never comes up short in serving the community.🙏 How You Can Help – Food, clothing, school supplies, and financial gifts all make a tangible impact in this rural corner of Appalachia.“Food sustainability is a true issue that’s not going away.”“Mission of Hope has taken a tremendous burden off of us — filling the gaps when we didn’t have diapers, food, or school supplies.”“If you’re here, you’re very young or very mature. And those are exactly the people Mission of Hope helps us serve.”Henderson Settlement: www.hendersonsettlement.com | (606) 337-3613Mission of Hope: www.missionofhope.org✝️ Stories of the Hope is a podcast by Mission of Hope, highlighting how God is working through partnerships and volunteers to bring hope to rural Appalachia.Episode SummaryKey TakeawaysQuotes from John NewmanResources & Links

👤 Guest:Sheila FusonTitle: Coordinator – Family Resource and Youth Services Center (FRYSC)Organization: Lone Jack School Center, Bell County, KentuckyIn this deeply emotional episode, host Benson Gregory sits down with Sheila Fuson, FRYSC Coordinator at Lone Jack School in Bell County, Kentucky — a woman whose persistence and compassion have literally changed lives.Sheila shares her 34-year journey serving the children and families of her small Appalachian community. From taking kids to dentist appointments and helping parents apply for jobs, to delivering Christmas gifts in the snow on her own time, Sheila is more than a coordinator — she’s a lifeline.The episode builds to a heartbreaking but redemptive story: two young girls found in heartbreaking conditions after their mother passed away. Thanks to Sheila’s persistence and Mission of Hope’s support, those girls were given warmth, furniture, education — and a new life. One of them, now a high school senior, still remembers the moment everything changed.What FRYSC coordinators really doHow poverty, addiction, and family loss affect kids in Eastern KentuckyThe real-world impact of Mission of Hope’s school partnershipsWhy volunteers are urgently needed — and how to get involvedA story of loss, love, and redemption that will stay with you“If you don’t have a heart for a kid, then this is not a job for you.” — Sheila FusonMission of Hope: missionofhope.org→ Donate, sponsor a child, or sign up to serve a school like Lone Jack.📝 Episode Summary:🔑 What You'll Hear:💬 Quote of the Episode:🔗 Resources:

🎙️ Stories of the Hope – August 2025 EpisodeTitle: Mentorship That Changes Lives: John Koch & Connor BlevinsHost: Benson GregoryGuests: John Koch (Mentor) and Connor Blevins (Scholar)Episode Summary:In this powerful episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with mentor John Koch and scholar Connor Blevins to explore the life-changing impact of Mission of Hope’s mentor-scholar program. John shares why he chose to get involved after retirement and how his weekly calls with Connor have become a rewarding, faith-filled connection. Connor opens up about his challenging childhood, his family’s path to recovery, and how the Mission of Hope scholarship and mentorship helped him envision and pursue a future he never thought possible.Key Topics:How John Koch got involved with Mission of Hope after retirementWhat mentoring looks like when done remotelyConnor's personal story: from instability and early exposure to addiction to academic achievementThe critical turning point in 8th grade that sparked Connor’s pursuit of excellenceHow Mission of Hope’s scholarship and mentor program changed Connor’s life pathConnor’s aspirations: law, business, and eventually politicsThe importance of thank-you notes and staying connected with scholarship organizationsAdvice for students and potential mentorsA closing reflection from Ephesians 2:10 and the call to serve othersNotable Quotes:🗣️ “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” – John Koch quoting Ephesians 2:10🗣️ “Knowing I’ve got somebody I can go to and just talk—that’s a pretty big thing for me.” – Connor Blevins🗣️ “Don’t just get the money and run. Send thank you letters. Stay in touch. Step out of your comfort zone.” – Connor’s advice to fellow scholarsTake Action:💙 Learn more about becoming a mentor or applying for a Mission of Hope scholarship: https://missionofhope.org📣 Share this episode to help spread the word about how mentorship changes lives.🙏 Are you retired or looking for ways to serve? Mission of Hope and find your place to plug in.

🔊 Show Notes:In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with Madison Mullins, the 100th graduate of the Mission of Hope Scholarship Program. Madison shares her inspiring journey growing up in Claiborne County, Tennessee, overcoming family hardship, and how Mission of Hope helped change the trajectory of her life.She reflects on receiving school supplies as a child, navigating college while caring for her ailing grandmother and younger siblings, and the incredible moment she opened her acceptance letter. Now a Student Success Coordinator helping students find their own paths, Madison is a living testament to the ripple effect of hope, perseverance, and support.💡 Topics Covered:Growing up in Appalachia with limited resourcesThe impact of Mission of Hope’s school supply and Christmas gift programsHow the scholarship—and a dedicated mentor—made college possiblePushing through overwhelming obstacles to graduate earlyGiving back: now working in schools to guide the next generationAdvice to students in difficult circumstances and potential mentors🙌 Quote of the Episode:"Be bold, be proud, and be loud. Don’t stop." – Madison Mullins🔗 Learn more:Want to help students like Madison? Donate, volunteer, or learn more at https://missionofhope.org

Stories of Hope Podcast: Alice Lloyd College & Mission of Hope🎙 Host: Benson Gregory🎙 Guest: Dr. Allison Southard, VP of Institutional Advancement at Alice Lloyd CollegeEpisode Summary:In this episode of Stories of Hope, we explore the remarkable history and mission of Alice Lloyd College in Pippa Passes, Kentucky. For over 100 years, this unique institution has been providing tuition-free, character-based education to Appalachian students, ensuring they graduate debt-free and ready to serve their communities. Dr. Allison Southard shares how Mission of Hope has been a key partner in supporting students, from childhood through college, with scholarships, supplies, and encouragement.🔹 What You’ll Learn:The inspiring story of Alice Lloyd and her vision for education in AppalachiaHow Alice Lloyd College operates as a work-study institution with no tuition costsThe impact of Mission of Hope on students, faculty, and the surrounding communityPersonal stories of students who have come full circle—from receiving aid as kids to working at Alice Lloyd CollegeHow you can get involved with Alice Lloyd College and Mission of Hope🌟 Key Quote:"We were given something here—an opportunity. And now we have a duty to pay that forward." – Dr. Allison Southard📌 Resources & Links:Learn more about Alice Lloyd College: alc.eduSupport Mission of Hope: missionofhope.orgVolunteer opportunities: Visit Mission of Hope’s website for ways to help in Appalachia📢 Enjoyed this episode?Rate, review, and share the Stories of Hope podcast with your friends! Your support helps spread the message of hope and transformation in Appalachia.

Podcast Show Notes – Interview with Emmette ThompsonHost: Benson GregoryGuest: Emmette ThompsonIn this heartfelt episode, Benson Gregory sits down with longtime friend and servant leader Emmette Thompson, Executive Director Emeritus of Mission of Hope. Emmette shares his inspiring journey from a corporate career to leading a life of ministry, his personal battle with addiction, and his unwavering passion for helping the people of Appalachia.With nearly 30 years of service, Mission of Hope has grown from a small Christmas outreach to a year-round ministryproviding food, clothing, education, and scholarships to children and families in rural Appalachia. Emmette reflects on the power of faith, the importance of servant leadership, and the transformative impact of investing in others.How Mission of Hope started and grew into a vital community support organizationThe challenges of rural poverty and why many people don’t recognize its severityThe power of connection in nonprofit work and why collaboration mattersEmmette’s personal testimony of overcoming addiction and how it shaped his callingThe importance of mentorship, faith, and passing the baton in leadership transitionsReal-life success stories from the Mission of Hope Scholarship Program🗣️ “You don't really know what somebody is going through until you follow them home.” – Benson Gregory🗣️ “Every day is a victory. If you’re struggling, start with the first day, then the first week, then the first year.” – Emmette Thompson🗣️ “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We just need to find the people already doing the work and support them.” – Emmette Thompson🎙️ Subscribe & Review – Don’t miss future episodes!

In this inspiring episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with Valerie Franklin, the dedicated Volunteer Coordinator for Mission of Hope. Valerie shares her incredible journey of faith, from feeling a lifelong call to serve the children of Appalachia to uprooting her life in Texas and moving to Tennessee to fulfill that mission.She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the vital work Mission of Hope does year-round, from disaster relief to scholarship programs, and, of course, their well-known Christmas and Back-to-School initiatives. Whether you're looking for a way to get involved or simply need a dose of encouragement, Valerie’s story is sure to inspire.Tune in to hear how small acts of kindness and faith-driven service are making a big impact in Appalachian communities—and how you can be part of it.🔹 Listen now and learn how you can help at missionofhope.org.

🎙 Stories of Hope Podcast: The Full Circle Impact of Mission of Hope🎙 Host: Benson Gregory🎙 Guest: Jonathan Defevers, Director of Special Education, Bell County Board of EducationEpisode Summary:In this heartwarming episode of Stories of Hope, we welcome Jonathan Defevers, a former Mission of Hope recipient who has come full circle—now serving as an educator, administrator, and parent in the same Appalachian communities where Mission of Hope continues to make an impact. From experiencing Mission of Hope as a student to witnessing its influence as a teacher, principal, and now a father, Jonathan shares how the organization provides not just gifts, but lasting hope to children in need.🔹 What You’ll Learn:How Mission of Hope has impacted Jonathan’s life from childhood to his careerThe emotional and practical significance of Mission of Hope’s Christmas and back-to-school programsStories of impoverished students whose lives have been changed by Mission of HopeHow Mission of Hope helps families in crisis beyond just Christmas and school suppliesThe role of teachers and administrators in ensuring students receive hope and resources🌟 Key Quote:"Mission of Hope goes far beyond just giving gifts. It provides dignity, encouragement, and a sense of worth to children who may have nothing else." – Jonathan Defevers📌 Resources & Links:Learn more about Mission of Hope: missionofhope.orgVolunteer or donate to support Appalachian students and familiesShare this podcast to spread awareness and hope!📢 Enjoyed this episode?Rate, review, and share Stories of Hope with your friends! Your support helps bring encouragement and transformation to Appalachian communities.

🎙 Stories of Hope Podcast: A Conversation with David Heatherly🎙 Host: Benson Gregory🎙 Guest: David Heatherly, Executive Director of Mission of HopeEpisode Summary:In this special episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with David Heatherly, the Executive Director of Mission of Hope, to reflect on the past year, discuss the organization’s impact, and look ahead to the future. From disaster relief efforts to scholarship programs and Christmas gift deliveries, David shares the incredible ways Mission of Hope continues to bring hope to thousands of families in Appalachia.🔹 What You’ll Learn:How Mission of Hope responded to devastating flooding in Eastern TennesseeThe year-round programs that go beyond Christmas, including school supply drives and scholarshipsStories of life-changing scholarships for students overcoming adversityThe role of volunteers and community partners in making Mission of Hope successfulHow faith and service are at the heart of Mission of Hope’s work🌟 Key Quote:"We’re not just delivering gifts—we’re delivering hope. And that hope can change a life." – David Heatherly📌 Resources & Links:Learn more about Mission of Hope: missionofhope.orgVolunteer or donate to support Appalachian familiesFollow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming projects📢 Enjoyed this episode?Rate, review, and share Stories of Hope with your friends! Your support helps spread encouragement and transformation in Appalachian communities.