Photos and logo courtesy of Area relief Ministries
Area Relief Ministries Board of Directors appointed a familiar face as its new executive director, Fred McKinnie, who has served as homeless and housing service director for the organization for the past 14 years. The board also appointed Faith Moore as ARM’s new director of development and marketing. The board has challenged McKinnie and Moore to elevate ARM’s mission to empower the homeless, forge new connections and amplify its impact.
“Fred has served Area Relief Ministries in several capacities, honing his skills and experience during his tenure. I believe very strongly in promoting from within to help perpetuate the culture and service delivery system when there is a qualified internal candidate. Fred is well qualified for the position and, equally as important, he has a heart for this ministry,” said Dr. Martha Robinson, president of the ARM board of directors. “We look forward to working with Fred and the staff in continuing to fulfill the promise of ARM.”
Prior to working at ARM, McKinnie worked at Goodwill Industries as a transitional services job coach and as a program director for The Salvation Army. “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the board has placed in me to lead Area Relief Ministries into its next chapter of service to our community,” McKinnie said. “My commitment to ARM’s mission runs deep, and I am eager to work alongside our dedicated team to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. With the support of our incredible community, I am excited to spearhead initiatives that will propel ARM forward and ensure that we remain a beacon of hope and support for those in need.”
Board members Randall Page and Deann Thelen praised McKinnie’s appointment as the new executive director of Area Relief Ministries.
“He is one of the most genuine, honest, hard working human beings I have ever met,” Thelen said. “He leads with his strong Christian faith and a heart bigger than life. Fred is a blessing to everyone lucky enough to know him.”
McKinnie officially stepped into the executive director position in February following the retirement of Mike Roby, who served as ARM’s executive director for seven years and worked alongside McKinnie during his tenure.
“Fred has been the nuts and bolts of our group for several years under the direction of our previous director Mike Roby,” Page said. “He has a heart for service and he will be a beacon of light as he serves as the hands and feet of Jesus in Jackson, Tennessee.”
As director of development and marketing, Moore will be responsible for curating gifts, donations and services for the community. Moore’s background includes business, marketing, social media, event planning and graphic design. Most recently Moore worked at Chick-fil-A for nearly five years as a marketing director in middle Tennessee.
“I am thrilled to step into this role at Area Relief Ministries and to join such a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those in need,” Moore said. “ARM’s mission resonates deeply with me, and I am excited to leverage my background and experience to further our impact in the community. Together, with the support of our dedicated staff and generous supporters, I am eager to explore new avenues to extend our reach and provide essential services to those who need it most.”
In its 47th year of operation, Area Relief Ministries continues its mission to assist the homeless in making positive life changes through job training, placement and housing assistance. The organization also provides emergency services for low-income community members. Through partnerships with local churches and businesses, Area Relief Ministries–Room in the Inn offers nightly housing and meals for the homeless in Jackson, Tennessee.
ARM’s Upcoming Events:
Family Fun Fest
Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Downtown Farmers Market
Salt & Light Banquet
Date: Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Carl Perkins Civic Center
Roundtable Discussion on Homelessness
Date: Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024
Time: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: First United Methodist Church
Hub Classic Basketball Tournament
Date: Dec. 27 – Dec. 29, 2024
Location: Liberty Technology High School