Becoming a Servant Leader
It didn’t take much more than one conversation for Marissa Patrick’s mother to get her involved with Emerald Youth Foundation.
That brief exchange her mom had with Emerald Youth staff member Cory Carmichael happened in the school pick-up line at Belle Morris Elementary over a decade ago.
Today, Marissa is a sophomore at Middle Tennessee State University pursuing a career in elementary education. Her desire to teach is rooted in part due to her engagement with Emerald Youth: first as a child, then teen, and now as a summer staff member.
“I have been a part of Emerald Youth as long as I can remember,” she said. “It helped me become the woman I am and continues to be an amazing experience as a college student.”
“When I was younger, it was great to have someone outside of my parents give me a different perspective on life. The staff and volunteers at Emerald were always there for me with a smiling face, hug and encouraging words, especially when I needed them most to walk with me through tough times…that’s when they would really dig in and encourage my faith.”
Marissa is particularly grateful for the guidance she received during high school and continues to receive during college through the Calling & Career Ministry.
“The workshops on time management and organizational and people skills were very helpful. I also appreciate my life coaches, Cathy and Ricky Bean, and the difference they’re making in my life. They are amazing people,” she said.
Marissa’s experience has certainly come full circle: she is helping lead Emerald Youth’s summer 2019 day camp as an AmeriCorps member
Read more about how we’re continuing to engage with young people across Knoxville in our annual report.