At Empower School at Valley Dream Farm we believe in nurturing the potential of people and the land by enriching communities, strengthening faith, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Together we can create an environment where both soul and soil flourish.
In our work, we are motivated by the Christian story, which began with God inviting his people to know and work with him in a garden. By centering this work on a farm, we seek to join Christ in his promise of bringing flourishing to creation and to our hearts. We believe all creation is restored through him.
Empower School is located outside Knoxville, TN, nestled within the lush landscape of the Tennessee Valley. It’s here that founder Wilma Jordan grew up, on a piece of land owned by her parents that she would go on to expand. Her love of—and history with—the area drove her passion for preserving the beauty and legacy of the land.
Meanwhile, Executive Director Buddy Walker was leading a program in Florida that was successfully putting into practice his decades of experience in connecting faith with innovative regenerative farming practices. Together, the vision for Empower School at Valley Dream farm was born.
Our mission is to cultivate the abundant potential in people and the farmland of the Tennessee Valley through:
These four, interrelated commitments are the foundation of our mission.
Christian practices of discipleship will be integrated into farm life and open to all residents, regardless of faith background. We open our doors to the curious, seeking, and committed alike.
We commit to teaching sustainable farming practices with a focus on hands-on learning and open-hearted service. We seek to develop a generation of leaders who will have exponential impact around the world.
We commit serving a broader purpose beyond promoting sustainable agriculture. Community outreach and food donation are central to our program and mission.
In addition to facilitating deep connections within the school community, we’ll invite in the greater community by providing space for connection, rejuvenation, and shared learning.
Three dynamic leaders drive this vision of growth.
