Empower Upper Cumberland

06/04/2026

We Want to Hear From You!

If you are a current or former participant, we would love for you to complete a short survey. Your feedback helps us better understand the impact of our work and shape future opportunities throughout the Upper Cumberland community.

The survey link will be sent directly to your email, so be sure to check your inbox.

Your voice and experience truly matter to us. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for being part of this important work.

05/21/2026

Real change is happening right here in the Upper Cumberland.

Families are gaining stability, increasing income, and creating brighter futures for their children every day. This is what happens when a community comes together to remove barriers and create opportunity.

05/01/2026

Our team hit pause on the day-to-day to spend some intentional time together.

This was more than just a getaway; it was a chance to reconnect, reflect on the impact we’re making, and refocus on the work ahead.

We’re excited to come back refreshed, re-energized, and ready to continue serving our community even better.

03/05/2026

Kindness and community are at the heart of Empower UC. ❤️

Our Putnam County EmpowerMENT meetings bring families together each month in Cookeville to find support, encouragement, and connection as they walk through life-changing journeys.

After learning more about the impact of these gatherings, Rob shared the mission of Empower UC with the congregation at Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ. The response was incredible. Members quickly stepped up to prepare home-cooked meals, serve families, and create a welcoming space for fellowship.

Because of this outpouring of generosity, the church has committed to hosting and providing meals for our EmpowerMENT meetings throughout the entire 2026 year.

We are so grateful for community partners who believe in the power of support, connection, and compassion. 💙

02/24/2026

We’re excited to share our latest Annual Report!

Take a moment to check it out and see the incredible impact made possible through our partners, programs, and community support. Together, we’re making a difference and building a stronger future for the Upper Cumberland.

View the report here: https://empoweruppercumberland.org/news-and-events/prosperity-press/

02/10/2026

12/02/2025

Community kindness on full display!
Mad Dash Coffee in Jamestown collected donations and provided 30 full Thanksgiving meals to families in Fentress County - including 8 Empower families!

Each meal kit included everything from turkey and veggies to mac & cheese and pumpkin pie. 🥧🧡

Huge thank-you to everyone who made this possible!

12/01/2025

Check out Jodi's story on why she loves being a Navigator and helping families in Putnam County.

In Putnam County, Empower Upper Cumberland Navigator Jodi Evans is helping individuals move past the barriers that often stand between them and a more stable future. Her work is shaped by years of experience in higher education, where she frequently met students who wanted to improve their lives but

11/26/2025

This Thanksgiving week, we’re feeling incredibly grateful for our Empower families, partners, employers, and navigators who show resilience and heart every single day. 🧡

Empower isn’t just a program, it’s a community that lifts each other up.
We’ve watched families gain confidence, build new skills, achieve career goals, and take steps toward independence and stability.

One participant shared:

“Empower reminded me that I have a team of people who genuinely believe in my potential.”

That belief, support, and hard work is something to celebrate.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or reaching new milestones. We’re proud of you. 🍂

Wishing everyone a safe, warm, and hopeful Thanksgiving.
We’re grateful for YOU. 🦃✨

11/25/2025

Check out this fun event happening in Nashville, for all families with one or more children in the household, on January 20th.

Let’s make some noise for Tennessee’s littlest learners!
On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, families, educators, and early childhood advocates from across the state will gather in Nashville for Rock the Hill at the Tennessee State Capitol.

This isn’t just another day on the Hill — it’s a movement powered by families.
👶 Children will deliver colorful lunchboxes filled with family stories and goodies to legislators.
💬 Parents and caregivers will share real experiences about child care, preschool, and the challenges of raising young children in Tennessee.
🏛️ Lawmakers will step into a mock learning center at the Capitol to see what quality early learning looks like in action.

Families selected to represent their counties will:
🌟 Attend the event in Nashville
🌟 Meet legislators and participate in hands-on activities
🌟 Enjoy a meal, receive goodies, and get a $200 stipend for their time and commitment

Whether you’ve struggled to find care, feel the frustration of the high costs of quality care, or simply want to make a difference — your voice matters.

If you’re a parent living in Tennessee with one or more children under the age of 9, and you’d like to bring them to join us Nashville for this fun event on January 20th, then submit a short application by Monday, November 17th!
👉 Apply now to represent your county or share your story: https://www.tqee.org/join-us/rock-the-hill-2026/

Together, we’ll show up, speak up, and Rock the Hill — one rocking chair, one child, one story at a time.