Jonathan and Lori Haskell
“I am delighted to have this opportunity to build on the reputation that YOKE has established in this community,” said Haskell. “Everywhere I go I meet people who have been impacted by this ministry. From students and parents to church leaders and school administrators, everyone has had wonderful things to say about the difference this organization is making and I’m thrilled to be a part of that.”
YOKE began in 1978, through the work of John and Helen Coatney, as an after school program at what was then Christenberry Junior High School. Since then, YOKE’s work has grown to include programs in 26 schools across five counties in East Tennessee. In addition to the after school programs, YOKE also offers weekend camps in the fall and spring, and a week of camp each summer. YOKE’s program would not be possible without the efforts of hundreds of college-aged volunteers, known as YOKE Folk. YOKE recruits volunteers from local churches and universities, trains them and provides them with an opportunity to serve.
In addition to the new executive director, YOKE’s board of directors also promoted Eli Cockrum from area director to program director. Cockrum, who participated in YOKE as a middle school student, now assumes responsibility for all of YOKE’s programming. For more information, visit www.YokeYouth.com.
About YOKE Youth Ministries
YOKE Youth Ministries is a faith-based mentoring program for middle school students. Its mission is to connect kids with Christ. This is accomplished through after school clubs, camping experiences and personal relationships with the students. YOKE also engages hundreds of college students, known as YOKE Folk, in their programming and helps to prepare them for a lifetime of service. YOKE serves students in 26 middle schools across five counties in East Tennessee. For more information, visit www.YokeYouth.com.