The Power of Community: Stories That Transform Behind-the-Scenes

Children gathered around a table doing a creative activity in a colorful classroom

Behind every story of stability is a community that chooses to show up. At Grace Place in Hendersonville, TN, transformation grows through people who give their time, resources, and care to support mothers and children as they rebuild their lives. Volunteers and partners help create an environment where families can begin again with dignity and hope. Preparing meals and contributing through donations may seem like small acts, yet together they create a strong foundation for healing and growth. For those asking questions like “How can I help mothers and children in crisis?” the answer is to be present with a consistent and compassionate presence.

Why Community Support Matters in Breaking Cycles of Instability

Many single mothers facing housing challenges carry more than financial strain. Loss of support systems, uncertainty about the future, and emotional exhaustion often accompany their circumstances. A safe place to live is essential, yet stability deepens through relationships. Grace Place is built on the belief that healing happens within communities. Volunteers help create a space where mothers feel respected, children feel secure, and families can rebuild trust. These connections encourage long-term growth and restore a sense of belonging. Community support meets immediate needs while reinforcing a powerful message: no family has to walk this journey alone.

Creating Space for Rest & Connection 

Meal teams are among the most meaningful ways volunteers support Grace Place on program nights. Individuals, families, or groups can sign up to bring prepared meals for our families and program staff on scheduled program nights. This is a great, flexible option for groups and families. This act of service provides more than nourishment. Prepared meals create time for our families to pause, connect, and rest. They remove the daily pressure of planning and cooking, allowing mothers to focus on their families and their progress. Children also benefit from consistent, comforting routines that help rebuild stability in ways that feel both practical and personal. 

Building a Nurturing Environment Through Consistency

The environment at Grace Place is shaped by a steady, caring presence. Volunteers who serve in our weekly programs contribute to a culture of encouragement, respect, and accountability during program times, reinforcing the stability families need. Group activities and shared experiences all play a role in building connection. Mothers are supported by Program Teachers and encouraged to grow at a sustainable pace. Children benefit as well. Positive interactions with caring adults help restore trust and create a sense of safety. These experiences support emotional growth and bring moments of joy back into everyday life, and allow a nurturing environment to develop over time through repeated acts of kindness and consistency.

Volunteer Opportunities for Individuals and Groups

Grace Place offers several ways for individuals and groups to get involved in meaningful service:

  1. Flexible Opportunities (Individuals, Families, or Groups)
  • Meal Teams: Prepare and deliver meals for families and program staff.
  • Event Support: Assist with gatherings and program activities.

These opportunities are excellent for churches, corporate teams, and community groups to serve together in ways that create real impact, and are often the best fit for those searching for group or faith-based volunteering.

  1. Weekly Program Volunteers (Vetted, Consistent Commitment)

These critical, long-term roles directly support our weekly program nights on Mondays and Thursdays. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, these roles require an interview, vetting, and a consistent weekly commitment:

  • Program Support: Dedicated individuals provide consistent support for children’s programming or other essential program activities. These are not drop-in opportunities.

How You Can Be Part of the Story

Meaningful change begins with a willingness to take part. Grace Place in Hendersonville, TN, offers volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals to support families and help create an environment where stability and growth are possible. Getting involved means helping build a space where mothers can focus on their goals and children can experience security and care. Each act of service plays a role in shaping that environment. If you have been looking for a meaningful way to serve, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact.



Your Generosity Opens the Door to New Beginnings. 

Martie Burnett 

Martie’s real estate journey began in 2004 when she joined her husband Matt to lead the residential sales division, and she hasn’t looked back since. Over the past two decades, she has built a reputation as one of the top brokers in Middle Tennessee, earning the trust of countless clients through her unwavering commitment to exceptional service and her ability to represent every client and property with the utmost care and professionalism.

 

Together, Martie and Matt have grown what started as a real estate practice into a thriving family of businesses spanning real estate, roofing, and construction, a testament to their shared drive, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their integrated approach means clients benefit from a rare depth of expertise across every stage of buying, selling, and building a home.

 

Outside of the office, Martie is a proud mother of three and a devoted wife whose warmth and enthusiasm for life are impossible to miss. When she finally steals a moment away, you’ll find her surrounded by family and friends, enjoying the water and everything that comes with a good meal and great company.

Matt Denney

Advisory

A native of Hendersonville, Matt completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Tennessee before returning in 2005 to begin his career as a CPA in Nashville.   He honed his skills serving privately held businesses for national and regional firms until January 2021 when he joined Davis, Brown & Company PLLC as a partner.  He has a broad range of experience serving clients in the healthcare, manufacturing, retail, non-profit, and real estate industries.

 

Matt has always been passionate about serving and contributing to the success of nonprofits that cater to the needs of families.  During his career he has served on the boards of or volunteered for organizations focused on foster care, family welfare, and homeless youth.  In addition to shifting focus to the business needs of Sumner County it was also his intent to find local organizations that are benefitting his home community.  He is enthusiastic about dedicating his skills and passion to help further the mission of Grace Place and make a meaningful impact in this area.

 

Matt resides in Gallatin with his wife (Lindsay) and three children (Caroline, Andrew, and Luke).