Knoxville Community Action Committee Marks 60 Years of Dedicated Service to the Community

Knoxville’s Community Action Committee Celebrates 60 Years of Service

In the heart of Knoxville, a remarkable milestone was reached as the Community Action Committee (CAC) celebrated 60 years of service to the community. On November 7, a warm gathering was held at the CAC Ross Building on Western Avenue, bringing together nearly 200 people, including local leaders such as Mayor Indya Kincannon, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, and U.S. Representative Tim Burchett. What a fantastic occasion it was!

A Legacy of Service

Since opening its doors in 1964, Knoxville’s CAC has been a beacon of hope for low-income families and individuals, working tirelessly to help them improve their lives. As Executive Director Barbara Kelly shared, “We’re more concerned about the work that we do on a day-to-day basis.” It’s true—this agency has consistently chosen to focus on assisting those in need rather than basking in the limelight of self-congratulation.

Over the years, the CAC has developed a variety of programs tailored to the needs of the community, including activities such as Head Start preschool, essential home repairs, meal deliveries for homebound seniors, utility payment assistance, transportation help, and job training for those on disability benefits. It’s a true testament to the spirit of community support!

Holiday Cheer with the Empty Stocking Fund

In addition to its regular services, the CAC is launching the Empty Stocking Fund initiative to provide 3,000 holiday meal boxes this season. Just imagine the impact of that effort on families who might struggle to put food on the table during the holidays! It’s the perfect time to step in and lend a hand to those in need.

A Celebration to Remember

Even though it’s been a whopping 45 years since CAC last held a celebration, it was clear this event was much more than just a party. It was about recognizing the collective efforts of volunteers, public support, and the participants who courageously share their lives with the agency. Barbara Kelly noted, “It’s the people who come and who commit themselves to the things that we’re doing who achieve the success.”

Voices of Impact

A shining example of CAC’s impact is Artece Slay, who fondly remembers visiting the CAC as a teenager during summer breaks, where she would take refuge in the library and enjoy snacks from the vending machine. That humble beginning led her to land her first job through a CAC summer youth employment program. Today, she proudly serves as an education specialist with CAC. “It’s beautiful. It gives me purpose,” Artece said, reflecting on her journey from participant to staff member.

Artece’s story is just one of many. She emphasized how CAC has made a difference not only for individuals in need but also for the community as a whole. “I think [CAC has] served not just the low-income people that we were initially mandated to serve, but (we) really serve the entire community.”

A Continued Commitment

This remarkable anniversary is not only a celebration but also a call to action. The work of the CAC will continue as they strive to provide access to opportunities and support for the most vulnerable among us. As the past six decades demonstrate, the spirit of community involvement is alive and well, and there are still many more challenges ahead.

As Knoxville reflects on the past assets and the promise of the future, the CAC’s commitment to improving lives remains unwavering. Cheers to another 60 years of service!