On Thursday, September 7th, nearly 400 people gathered at Bridgewater Place for YOKE’s annual banquet. This year’s event was presented by TVA and Pilot. Together we celebrated all that God is doing through the ministry of YOKE. Thanks to the generosity of our guests and our sponsors, we raised $126,000 for the programs and services that YOKE provides in Knox, Blount, Anderson, Jefferson, and Grainger Counties.

YOKE Servant Leadership Award

YOKE’s Servant Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated uncommon servant leadership while advancing the mission of YOKE. This year’s honoree was Roger Gum, a lifetime member of YOKE’s board of directors. Roger has been an integral part of the ministry of YOKE, nearly since the beginning of YOKE. As YOKE’s longest-serving board member, he has been a constant source of advice and encouragement, and helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the ministry. For more on Roger’s impact, check out the video that we put together for him.

Program Update

We know that, while many people love YOKE stories, there are those who want to see the data behind the stories. But we’re still YOKE, so we had to make it fun. Check out the latest edition of YOKE News Live for a fun look at the difference YOKE is making around our community. You won’t regret it.

Alumni Hall

Our evening of celebration was enhanced by the addition of a YOKE alumni room. Around 60 former YOKE Folk were able to enjoy the event from their own space. Alumni appreciated the opportunity to hear about the continuing impact of YOKE, to catch up with old friends, and to spend some time with our founders, John and Helen Coatney. For all the details on future alumni events, make sure to sign up on our alumni page and join our alumni group on Facebook.

In Case You Missed It

If you weren’t able to attend this year’s Banquet, there is still time to have an impact. Visit our giving page to make a one-time gift to YOKE, or sign up to become an MVP (Monthly Vital Partner). To see all the pictures from the event, visit YOKE’s Facebook page.