Register Today: Hunger Walk 2026

Hi everyone,

Thank you. Truly. Your support has made a real difference for families in our community. As we look ahead to Hunger Walk this year, we’d love to invite you to join us again.

Here’s one example of what your support has made possible.

Last year, when a sudden federal funding freeze threatened the stability of newly arrived families, the Inspiritus team faced a critical gap in essential resources. Families who had just arrived and were counting on promised assistance were suddenly left without reliable access to food.

Because people in our community stepped up through Hunger Walk, Inspiritus was able to respond quickly and thoughtfully.

That support made it possible to:

- Shop for and deliver groceries to more than 35 people, providing food and a sense of stability during weeks of uncertainty.  

- Bridge the gap for families who lost access to federal assistance, ensuring they remained nourished while navigating a new country, new systems, and new expectations.  

- Provide culturally appropriate food, helping families maintain dignity, health, and a sense of familiarity during a period of intense disruption.

This is what community looks like in action.

This year, the need continues. As policies continue to change, food access is becoming more uncertain for many newcomers; the support of our community is just as critical. We hope you’ll consider joining us again in one or more of the following ways:

1) Sign up for Hunger Walk:  

Hunger Walk is a simple, accessible way to show up in solidarity and support food access for families who need it most. You can walk with us at The Home Depot Backyard or walk on your own anywhere on March 15.

• The Home Depot Backyard, near Mercedes-Benz Stadium  
• Sunday, March 15, 2026  
• 12:00–4:00 PM 

2) Collect $10 grocery gift cards:

$10 grocery gift cards help meet immediate food needs and are distributed directly to families.

Gift cards can be: Brought to Hunger Walk on March 15, or dropped off or mailed to our Community Engagement team. To arrange drop-off, mailing, or ask questions, contact: communityengagement@weinspirit.org


3) Volunteer to help purchase and deliver groceries:  

Some families are limiting how often they leave their homes. Volunteers can help by purchasing culturally appropriate groceries and delivering food directly to families. If you’re interested in volunteering or would like a grocery list, please contact: communityengagement@weinspirit.org

Each of these actions matter. Together, they create real, tangible support for people navigating a difficult transition.

Thank you again for being part of a community that shows up. We hope to walk alongside you again this year.

 

Warmly,  

Sarah Burke
Community Engagement Manager
Inspiritus

Free Virtual Training: Thrive Business Boost Series

Dear Friend, 

One of the things we’re most proud of at Thrive Community Lending is how much this work has grown. Not just in reach, but in depth. That progress has been possible because of partners, supporters, volunteers, and community members who believe that access to knowledge and opportunity matters. 

Because of that support, we’re able to continue offering practical, no-cost resources to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Including free trainings like the one we’re sharing below. 

Free Virtual Training: Thrive Business Boost Series 

 March 3, 2026 
 7:00–8:30 PM ET 
 Live on Zoom 

During this one-hour session, participants will be introduced to a no-cost business learning platform designed to support small business owners and entrepreneurs at every stage. From early ideas to growth and stabilization. The platform includes: 
 

• Self-paced business courses and tools 

• Live trainings and networking opportunities 

• Access to resources that may lead to grants or incentives 

This session is practical, accessible, and free to attend. Registration is required, and Zoom details will be sent to all registered participants prior to the event. 

Whether or not you can attend, please know that you are always welcome to join us, share your ideas, offer feedback, or find inspiration for how we might partner together in the future. And if this particular session isn’t the right fit for you, we’d still appreciate you sharing or forwarding this invitation to someone in your network who may benefit. Let them know there will be some incentives and door prizes for participants! Every connection helps this work grow and reach more people. 

Thank you for staying connected to Thrive Community Lending and for being part of a broader community committed to economic opportunity and stability. 
 

Warmly, 

John Arnold
Executive Director
Thrive Community Lending

Our Winter Storm Fern Response Is Underway

Dear Friends,

The human toll from Winter Storm Fern continues to grow across Tennessee and the broader region. The Tennessee Department of Health has now reported 25 weather-related fatalities tied to this storm, and restoring power remains a critical challenge as thousands still face dangerous conditions following prolonged freezing temperatures. The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated to support ongoing recovery needs. Losses from the storm are expected to reach billions of dollars nationwide, with Tennessee among the hardest-hit states.

Inspiritus Is Responding
Inspiritus has officially mobilized in response to Winter Storm Fern, and our disaster response teams are now en route to Tennessee.

Thanks to the partnership of Airlink, four of our experienced team leads are flying into the affected area this week, while five additional leaders are traveling by ground. Their work begins immediately upon arrival, with full operations launching Friday, February 6.

We are also grateful to the The Home Depot Foundation, whose support is helping power this response with critical equipment and supplies.

Base of Operations Confirmed
Our volunteer base camp is now established at First Baptist Church Goodlettsville. We are deeply thankful to First Baptist for opening their doors and providing a safe, welcoming space for volunteers and staff as the work begins.

What Our Teams Will Be Doing
Inspiritus crews will begin providing:

• Chainsaw work for fallen tree removal and debris clearing
• Heavy equipment operations
• Muck and gut services for flood-impacted homes

Our trained leaders will coordinate and support local volunteers to ensure work is done safely, efficiently, and with care for homeowners facing overwhelming loss.

How You Can Help Right Now
Disaster relief is a long road, and early support makes an immediate impact. Your gift today helps us mobilize trained leaders, fuel heavy equipment, provide safety gear for volunteers, and deliver hands-on help to families who cannot recover on their own.

Will You Make a Gift to Support Winter Storm Fern Response Efforts?
Every dollar helps us move faster, reach more homes, and stand alongside communities in their most difficult moments. Give now to support recovery in Tennessee.

Volunteer coordination is also underway. More details on how individuals and groups can serve will be shared soon.

Thank you for standing with Tennessee families as recovery begins.

Sincerely,

Jaime Mok
Inspiritus Disaster Relief
Executive Director
Inspiritus

Registered Today: New Americans Celebration

Dear Friends,

Each year, hundreds of Georgians gather at the Capitol for the New Americans Celebration—a powerful day of advocacy, storytelling, and collective action.

Hosted by the Coalition of Refugee Service Agencies, this event brings together community members from across the state to stand with our newest neighbors and remind our leaders that welcoming policies strengthen our communities and our workforce. It’s a visible, values-driven moment to show what Georgia looks like when everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

By attending, you’ll be part of a meaningful day centered on shared stories, civic engagement, and a collective call for a more welcoming future for all who call Georgia home.

We hope you’ll join us.

Register today and be part of this movement for welcome.

We look forward to standing alongside you.
 

Warmly, 

Aimee Zangandou
Refugee & Immigrant Services
Executive Director
Inspiritus 

2026 Winter Storm Update: Teams Deployed

Dear Friends,

In response to the recent winter storm impacting communities across the South and East Coast, Inspiritus Disaster Relief is preparing to deploy to support relief efforts in Middle Tennessee.

Our response team will deploy in the coming days to Goodlettsville, at the request of city officials. We will be working in close coordination with local authorities, emergency management partners, and trusted organizations to assess needs and determine where support is most urgently needed. As conditions and resources allow, we may expand our response to additional communities across Tennessee and northern Mississippi.

Initial response efforts will focus on immediate relief needs, including: removing hazards and debris, securing homes, tree work and tarping, muck-and-gut, cleaning, and sanitizing damaged spaces.

With additional funding, our work could expand to include longer-term recovery efforts, such as home repairs to help families safely return home.

Donations are critically needed to make this response possible and to sustain recovery efforts in the days ahead. Your support helps ensure we can respond quickly, safely, and effectively when communities need us most.

There’s more work to be done. Your support ensures our teams can be on the ground meeting urgent needs as they arise. Consider making a financial gift today.

Thank you for your continued support as we empower storm survivors on their path from surviving to thriving.

Sincerely,

Jaime Mok
Inspiritus Disaster Relief
Executive Director
Inspiritus

Our Disaster Relief Program Report is Here!

Dear Friends,

This year, your generosity made a powerful difference when it mattered most.

Thanks to your support, Inspiritus empowered 3,181 storm survivors on their road to recovery across 11 disaster response operations, helping families restore safety, stability, and hope after crisis struck.

From immediate relief to long-term recovery, your partnership fueled every step of this work. We invite you to explore our full 2024-2025 Disaster Relief Program Report to see the stories, milestones, and impact you helped make possible.

There’s more work to be done. Your support ensures our teams can be on the ground meeting urgent needs as they arise. Consider making a financial gift today.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Inspiritus Featured in Nashville PBS / wnpt.org Special

Dear Friend,

Across the country, older adults are being priced out of the places they’ve called home. Rents continue to rise, affordable housing options are shrinking, and for people living on fixed incomes, the margin for error is disappearing.

We’re honored to share this Nashville PBS/wnpt.org segment below, which takes a closer look at what this reality means for older adults and the community-based efforts working to respond before housing insecurity becomes displacement. Earlier this year, a Nashville PBS film crew spent time capturing this growing crisis and the collaborative work underway to address it. Inspiritus is included in the segment, highlighting our affordable housing efforts and the role stable housing, alongside access to essential supports like food assistance, plays in long-term well-being.

The film brings viewers face-to-face with older adults navigating impossible housing choices, as well as the nonprofit, faith-based, and community leaders working within systems that are no longer keeping pace with the need. It raises an important question. How did we get here, and why aren’t the solutions we rely on enough?

The full Nashville PBS segment is now available, and we encourage you to watch: https://youtu.be/kl5WCPBCuE

Can Churches Solve the Affordable Housing Crisis? | Aging Matters

When communities come together, meaningful change becomes possible. This Nashville PBS feature reflects the collective work of many organizations committed to practical, compassionate solutions to some of our most pressing challenges.

Air Dates on PBS Nashville:
• December 28 at 6:30 PM (CT)
• January 5 at 8:00 PM (CT)

The full segment can also be watched here: https://youtu.be/kl5WCPBCuEw

We’re honored to be included in this important conversation and grateful to be part of the broader community working toward lasting, people-centered solutions. Thank you for your continued partnership and for believing in community-driven efforts that create real change.

With gratitude, 

Janet Arning
Executive Director of Middle Tennessee
Inspiritus

Year-End Update from Thrive Community Lending.

Dear Friend,

As the year comes to a close, we want to start by saying thank you. 

Because of your support, refugee entrepreneurs across Georgia are building businesses, strengthening their families’ stability, and creating pathways toward long-term economic opportunity. Your partnership makes it possible for Thrive Community Lending to meet entrepreneurs where they are and walk alongside them as they grow. 

This moment also gives us the chance to reflect on what we've accomplished together over the past year, and to share why we’re feeling energized and hopeful as we look ahead to the year to come. 

Year-End Impact Highlights 

Because of your support, Thrive Community Lending continues to grow in both reach and credibility. 

• 35 refugee-owned businesses launched or strengthened, representing $400,000 invested directly into low-income communities with the creation on 59 jobs.

• Official recognition as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by the U.S. government, strengthening Thrive’s long-term sustainability 

• $200,000 Neighborhood Builders grant from Bank of America, awarded to support refugee-owned small businesses 

• Expansion into Savannah, where four refugee entrepreneurs are launching new businesses to support their families with Thrive loans 

• Leadership Breakfast held in September, convening banks, foundations, nonprofits, refugee entrepreneurs, and volunteers to discuss local economic challenges and shape pathways to shared prosperity 

Each milestone reflects not only progress, but trust. Trust from funders. Trust from partners. And trust from entrepreneurs choosing Thrive as a stepping stone toward long-term success. 

Borrower Spotlight: From Resettlement to Entrepreneurship

When Azatullah Alizai (on the right) arrived in the U.S. in 2016 through Inspiritus’ Refugee & Immigrant Services program, he was rebuilding his life from the ground up. A new country. New systems. And a deep determination to create stability for his family. 

With support from Inspiritus and Thrive Community Lending, Azatullah turned that determination into action.

Through Thrive’s training and affordable financing, he launched his own Halal food truck in Savannah, creating a pathway to economic independence through work he’s proud of. 

Today, his business is open, growing, and quickly becoming a favorite in the community. For Azatullah, this isn’t just a food truck. It’s stability, dignity, and a future shaped on his own terms. 

This is what your support makes possible. When opportunity meets resilience, families don’t just rebuild. They thrive. 

 Visit Azatullah’s food truck: 7505 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31406 

Why Thrive’s Role Matters 

Many early-stage entrepreneurs face a readiness gap before they can successfully access larger loans or traditional financial products. 

That is where Thrive plays a critical role. 

We work alongside entrepreneurs to help them build stability, credit readiness, and strong operational foundations. Our partners have been clear that this bridge matters. It strengthens their future pipeline and ensures entrepreneurs are prepared to step confidently into the capital products those institutions offer, rather than being pushed forward too soon. 

When Thrive does its job well, everyone benefits. Entrepreneurs grow stronger. Partners engage with better-prepared borrowers. Communities become more economically resilient. 

Looking Ahead to the New Year 

As we step into the year ahead, we are energized by what’s possible and grateful for the community that surrounds this work. 

There are several meaningful ways you can continue supporting local refugee entrepreneurs: 

• Volunteer as a business coach or advisor, sharing your expertise with early-stage entrepreneurs 

• Host a training class or workshop, helping entrepreneurs build practical skills in areas like finance, marketing, operations, or compliance 

• Recommend potential borrowers who may benefit from Thrive’s training and affordable capital 

• Make introductions to organizations aligned with this work, whether as collaborative partners, funders, or volunteer groups 

Your time, expertise, and connections play a critical role in helping entrepreneurs move from survival to stability to growth.

For more information, email John Arnold by clicking the button below. 

With Gratitude 

As the year winds down, we’re deeply thankful for your continued belief in this work. Every loan deployed, every business launched, and every family strengthened is connected to supporters like you. 

If you’re organization is looking for a meaningful way to close out the year: 

Give today. Change a life.

Your generosity helps refugee entrepreneurs access the training, capital, and support they need to build strong businesses and stable futures. 

Wishing you a warm, restful holiday season and a hopeful start to the new year.  

With appreciation,

John Arnold
Executive Director
Thrive Community Lending

Inspiritus Featured in Upcoming PBS Special

Dear Friend,

We're pleased to share a preview of an upcoming PBS segment that explores one of the most pressing challenges facing communities across middle Tennessee — affordable housing and homelessness, particularly among older adults.

Earlier this year, a PBS film crew spent time in Nashville highlighting how nonprofits, faith-based partners, and community leaders are working together to address housing insecurity. Inspiritus was honored to be included as part of this broader story, with a focus on our affordable housing efforts and the role stable housing plays in long-term well-being. The segment also reflects how access to supportive resources, including food assistance, can help neighbors remain safe, nourished, and connected as they work toward stability.

Today, we’re glad to share the official PBS teaser for the segment.

When communities come together, meaningful change becomes possible — and this PBS feature reflects the collective efforts of many organizations committed to practical, compassionate solutions.

Air Dates on PBS Nashville:
• December 28 at 6:30 PM (CT)
• January 5 at 8:00 PM (CT)

Following the initial broadcast, the feature will be available to a wider audience.

We’re grateful to be part of this important conversation and look forward to sharing the full segment with you when it airs. Thank you for your continued partnership and for believing in community-driven solutions that create lasting impact.

With gratitude, 

Janet Arning
Executive Director of Middle Tennessee
Inspiritus

The Storm Passed. The Pain Stayed.

Dear Friend, 

Just outside of Savannah, a young mom and her three daughters expected Hurricane Helene to weaken before reaching their neighborhood. Instead, the storm unleashed severe flooding and wind damage that destroyed their septic system, tore down the fence that kept her children safe, and ripped siding from their home.

A month later, her husband passed away unexpectedly — leaving her grieving, raising three children alone, and unable to afford the repairs. With no insurance and a denied FEMA claim, she had nowhere to turn.

Inspiritus stepped in.

Our Disaster Recovery Team replaced the septic system, repaired the siding, and rebuilt the fence at no cost to her — restoring safety and giving her room to breathe, grieve, and begin imagining a future for her family again.

Help Savannah families rebuild after Helene. Donate today.

Thank you for your support.

With gratitude, 

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Thank You for an Incredible Giving Tuesday!

Dear Friend,

Because of your generosity, Inspiritus had an incredible Giving Tuesday. Together, our community raised $8,529, and with the Thrivent match, your gifts grew to a powerful $12,793.

That impact is real. And it reaches far beyond one day.

Your support ensures families across the Southeast can stay housed, nourished, and connected to the resources they need to move from surviving to thriving. In a year when so many are facing rising costs, housing instability, hunger, and unexpected crises, your compassion shows that hope still grows when communities come together.

Why You Gave: Voices From Our Community

This Giving Tuesday, many of you shared why Inspiritus' mission matters to you. Your words reflect the heart of this work.

Your notes remind us that giving isn't just about the dollars raised, it's about the value shared, hope extended, and communities strengthened.

This work is only possible because of you.

Every meal distributed, every home repaired, every newcomer welcomed, every family supported, your generosity is at the heart of it all.

From all of us at Inspiritus, thank you for showing up for your neighbors. Thank you for giving boldly. Thank you for believing in this mission.

With gratitude, 

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Help Families Thrive This Giving Tuesday

Dear Friend,

Thriving looks different for each of us. For some, it’s steady income. For others, it’s emotional healing. For others still, it’s a safe home, a supportive community, or a chance to build something new. 

And the truth is, every one of us knows what it feels like to need just a little more— a little more support, a little more clarity, a little more encouragement, a little more space to breathe after a hard season. 

At Inspiritus, helping people thrive is the natural next step after safety and stability. Because surviving is not enough. People deserve to grow. To participate. To contribute. To find joy again. To imagine a future they can believe in. 

How We Help People Move Toward Thriving 

We walk with people as they rebuild confidence, skills, and possibility. We create space for emotional healing through community and art. We support parents and caregivers as they strengthen their families. We help individuals grow gardens that feed their households and their hope. We restore access to food and support networks that anchor wellbeing. We help entrepreneurs build the income and stability that open doors to opportunity. And we preserve housing so families can remain rooted long enough to grow. 

Thriving isn’t one program. It’s what happens when all the right supports come together at the right time.

Give This Giving Tuesday 

If you believe people deserve not only to survive—but to thrive—we’re asking you to give today. For every $2 you give, Thrivent adds $1, helping to increase your impact.

Your Giving Tuesday gift helps families...

• Rebuild confidence after crisis 
• Grow the skills and stability needed for long-term independence 
• Strengthen emotional and mental wellbeing 
• Access community, connection, and support 
• Build income and opportunity 
• Stay rooted in the places where their future can unfold 

Give today. Help someone move from surviving to thriving. 

Thank you for your support. 

With gratitude, 

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

For every $2 donated through Thrivent’s online giving platform on Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Thrivent will match $1 up to an additional $20,000 per Thrivent Member Network. All donations in support of this fundraiser will be made through Thrivent CharitableTM. Thrivent will pay up to $300,000 in online processing fees per calendar year for personal donations made through Thrivent’s online giving platform.

Be one of the first five to change a life tomorrow

Dear Friend,

Tomorrow is Giving Tuesday. You can help someone move from crisis to stability. One gift can change the direction of a family’s life.

You do not have to wait until tomorrow.

You can give today, and your early gift will count toward our Giving Tuesday goal. Early gifts matter the most. They build momentum. They show the community that support is already moving. Most people wait for a sign that others care before they step forward. Your gift can be that sign.

We are inviting you to be one of the first five people to give. Your leadership inspires others to follow.

And your gift will go even further. Every $2 you give unlocks $1 more from Thrivent.

Early gifts create confidence. Confidence creates movement. Movement creates community.

If you are willing, join the first five. Help show what becomes possible when we step forward together.

Give early. Your gift will be matched.

Thank you for your support. 

With gratitude, 

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

For every $2 donated through Thrivent’s online giving platform on Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Thrivent will match $1 up to an additional $20,000 per Thrivent Member Network. All donations in support of this fundraiser will be made through Thrivent CharitableTM. Thrivent will pay up to $300,000 in online processing fees per calendar year for personal donations made through Thrivent’s online giving platform.

This Giving Tuesday, your gift goes 50% further

Dear Friend,

Across the Southeast, families are being pushed to the edge. Rising rents, low wages, hunger, and dwindling resources are forcing too many of our neighbors into crisis. They aren’t statistics — they are people like Mary.

Mary has lived in her neighborhood for 45 years. She raised her children there. She welcomed new families as they arrived. But in the last five years, her rent has tripled. Grocery costs continue to climb. Her fixed income stays the same.

She’s not alone. Parents wait in long lines at food pantries. Families rebuilding after hurricanes face setback after setback. Newly arrived refugees are starting from scratch in unfamiliar places. And children with disabilities urgently need stable homes — not another year in limbo.

These are our neighbors. Today, they need more than empathy. They need action.

This Giving Tuesday, your generosity goes even further. Every $2 you give unlocks $1 more from Thrivent — multiplying your impact and putting real solutions within reach.

Your gift helps Inspiritus bridge the gaps, providing long-term, community-based support that keeps families housed, fed, stable, and on a path toward thriving.

Your Giving Tuesday donation can help:

• Keep Families in Their Homes – Protect seniors and working parents from being pushed out by rising costs.

• Rebuild After Disaster – Give families more than short-term relief — give them lasting stability.

• Help Newcomers Truly Belong – Support refugees and immigrants as they build homes, businesses, and futures.

• Fuel Economic Independence – Offer job training and small-business support that break the cycle of poverty.

• End Child and Family Hunger – Put real meals on the table for families who would otherwise go without.

• Create Safe Havens for the Vulnerable – Ensure children with disabilities and high-needs families are never left behind.

This crisis is real — but so is your power to change what happens next.

Every $2 multiplies into $3.
Every gift moves a family one step closer to stability.
Every act of generosity reminds our neighbors they’re not alone.

This Giving Tuesday, will you stand up for your community?

Give now. Change what happens for your neighbors.

Thank you for your support. 

With gratitude, 

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

For every $2 donated through Thrivent’s online giving platform on Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Thrivent will match $1 up to an additional $20,000 per Thrivent Member Network. All donations in support of this fundraiser will be made through Thrivent CharitableTM. Thrivent will pay up to $300,000 in online processing fees per calendar year for personal donations made through Thrivent’s online giving platform.

Give the Gift of Hope This Holiday Season!

Dear Friend,

As we continue walking alongside newly arrived individuals and families each day, one truth remains constant: hope begins with community. And every year, that community includes you.

Across the Southeast, refugee families are preparing for their first winter in the United States. For many, it is a season of adjustment, unfamiliar cold, and new beginnings. And just as we do every year, Inspiritus is here — serving, supporting, and ensuring no family is left behind.

That’s why our annual Hope Tree campaign continues to matter so deeply. Together with congregations, partners, and neighbors like you, we collect new winter coats, gift cards, and donations so every family we accompany feels warmth, welcome, and belonging during the holidays.

This year, our goal is to collect 200 new coats for refugees rebuilding their lives in Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, and Savannah. Your generosity ensures that each family has what they need to face their first winter in a new country — and to feel the love of their new community. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

🧥 Donate a New Winter Coat

• Give the gift of warmth to a newly arrived family. We’re collecting 200 new coats across our regional offices for distribution before the holidays.

🎁 Send a Gift Card

• Gift cards help us fill in the gaps—purchasing specific sizes, styles, or additional coats as needed. They’re also shared with families living in warmer areas like Savannah, where coats aren’t always required.

💛 Make a Donation

• Prefer to give online? Contributions to the Hope Tree Holiday Fund go directly toward purchasing coats and essential items for refugee families.

📦 Mail Donations by December 15

• Atlanta: 731 Peachtree St NE, Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30308

• Birmingham: 117 Southcrest Dr, Suite 104, Birmingham, AL 35209

• Nashville: 3354 Perimeter Hill Drive, Suite #118, Nashville, TN 37211

• Savannah:10710 White Bluff Road, Savannah, GA 31406

For questions, contact Sarah Burke, Community Engagement Manager, at communityengagement@weinspirit.org or 404-797-7505.

Your generosity reminds every refugee family that they are not alone–they are part of a community that cares. Thank you for helping us share warmth, hope, and belonging this holiday season.
 

With gratitude, 

Aimee Zangandou
Refugee & Immigrant Services
Executive Director
Inspiritus

A Statement From Our President & CEO

Dear Friends, 
 

This week holds deep personal significance for our team at Inspiritus. It marks 28 years since Aimee, our Executive Director of Refugee & Immigrant Services, and her family arrived in the United States as refugees—seeking safety, stability, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. The welcome they received changed the trajectory of Aimee’s life and made it possible for her to now serve others walking that same path.

It is from that lived experience that Aimee—and all of us at Inspiritus—respond with deep concern to the 2026 Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions, which sets the admissions ceiling at just 7,500 refugees, the lowest level in U.S. history, while explicitly prioritizing Afrikaners from South Africa. This decision represents a deeply disappointing retreat from the United States’ longstanding commitment to humanitarian protection.

At a moment of record global displacement, choosing to so drastically limit lifesaving protection is a profound abandonment of families fleeing war, persecution, and unimaginable violence. Many have already completed years of rigorous security screening and are simply waiting for the chance to rebuild their lives in safety. To close the door now—selectively and so drastically—is not only deeply disappointing, it is morally indefensible. It is an affront to Aimee, her family, and to refugees who have made our country stronger for generations. It means fewer families will receive the same life-changing chance Aimee’s family once did.

As the CEO of Inspiritus, I can assure you that refugees do not arrive as burdens; they arrive with skills, resilience, and an unwavering determination to rebuild. They become neighbors, entrepreneurs, essential workers, students, caregivers, and leaders. Our communities and economies are stronger because of refugees — Aimee is a testament to that truth.

Inspiritus remains steadfast in our mission to guide disrupted lives from surviving to thriving, and we will continue to advocate for policies that protect the vulnerable and strengthen the communities we serve.

Twenty-eight years ago, Aimee and her family’s future was transformed by the promise of safety and welcome. My hope — and conviction — is that America continues to offer that same promise to families seeking safety today, and that Inspiritus is able to be a part of this important work.

Sincerely,

John Moeller 
President & CEO 
Inspiritus

Sponsor and Support the 2025 Inspiritus Golf Tournament!

Dear Friend, 

What if a round of golf could provide meals for families, after-school enrichment for kids, and gardens for neighbors in need? On November 3, it can. Join us at the 2025 Inspiritus Golf Tournament at Temple Hills Country Club and help transform everyday swings into lasting impact.

By playing, sponsoring, or supporting this event, you invest in the most vulnerable families in Middle Tennessee — equipping them to heal, grow, and thrive. Every swing makes a difference:

• $125/Individual Golfer: Covers greens fees, cart, contests, and lunch — and provides after-school snacks for 30 children.

• $400/Team of 4: Includes all golfer benefits plus reserved team carts, recognition in the program, and provides raised garden beds for 2 families.

Want to make an even greater impact? Become a sponsor!

Your participation helps provide meals, enrichment, and support services for hundreds of neighbors across Middle Tennessee.

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, November 3

• Location: Temple Hills Country Club

• Time: Breakfast/Check-in 8:30 AM | Tournament 9:00 AM

Thank you for your continued support and empowering the individuals and families we accompany on their paths from surviving to thriving.

We can’t wait to see you on the course!

For questions regarding the tournament, registration, or sponsorship, please contact Doug Werth at douglaswerth@me.com or Jack Ficken at jack.ficken@thrivent.com.

With gratitude,

Janet Arning
Middle Tennessee Empowerment Services
Executive Director

Register for the 2025 Inspiritus Golf Tournament!

Hi Friend,

Most Monday mornings blend together: meetings, emails, the usual routine.

But November 3 is different.

That's the day your golf game creates measurable, lasting impact for families across Middle Tennessee. Real meals for kids. Real food growing outside neighbors' doors.

The Inspiritus Golf Tournament at Temple Hills Country Club turns one morning into life-changing support.

WHAT YOUR PARTICIPATION PROVIDES:

View this email in your browser

Hi Friend,

Most Monday mornings blend together: meetings, emails, the usual routine.

But November 3 is different.

That's the day your golf game creates measurable, lasting impact for families across Middle Tennessee. Real meals for kids. Real food growing outside neighbors' doors.

The Inspiritus Golf Tournament at Temple Hills Country Club turns one morning into life-changing support.

WHAT YOUR PARTICIPATION PROVIDES:

Individual Entry ($125)
→ Greens fees, cart, contests, and lunch
→ 30 kids get after-school meals

Team of 4 ($400)
→ Everything above + reserved team carts + program recognition
→ 2 families access fresh fruits & vegetables growing outside their front doors

This isn’t just golfing for charity. It’s about coming together and building community right here in Middle Tennessee to help families access what they need to thrive.

EVENT DETAILS:

📍 Temple Hills Country Club, Franklin, TN
☕️ Breakfast & Check-in: 8:00 AM
⏰ Shotgun Start: 9:00 AM
📅 Monday, November 3, 2025

Spots are filling fast. Once they're gone, the opportunity to join this tournament won’t happen again until next year. We’d love to see you!

Questions? Contact douglaswerth@me.com or jack.ficken@thrivent.com.

With gratitude,

Janet Arning
Middle Tennessee Empowerment Services
Executive Director

P.S. Can't make it November 3? You can still create impact by sponsoring a hole or forwarding this to someone who should be there. Every connection matters!

200 Homes Repaired. 4 New Recoveries Launched.

Dear Friend, 

At Inspiritus, we believe that healing begins at home. A safe roof, sturdy walls, and a place to rest your head each night—these are more than just physical structures. They’re a foundation for recovery, dignity, and hope.

That’s why we’re proud to share that, thanks to your support, Inspiritus is winding down our long-term recovery operations in Fort Myers, Florida—where we've repaired more than 200 homes damaged by Hurricane Ian. These homes now stand as beacons of resilience and renewal, and we are grateful to every volunteer, donor, and partner who helped make this incredible milestone possible.

As one chapter closes, another begins.

We’re now turning our focus to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, with four new long-term recovery programs launched across the Southeast: Valdosta, GA | Savannah, GA | Mountain City, TN | Polk County, FL

Each of these areas faces a long road ahead—but with your continued support, we’re walking alongside families every step of the way, restoring homes, rebuilding hope, and assuring our neighbors that they’re not alone.

To help lead this important work, we’re thrilled to welcome Jaime Mok as our new Executive Director of Disaster Relief. Jaime brings nearly two decades of global humanitarian experience — including with Habitat for Humanity International — and a deep commitment to community resilience and dignity. His leadership will strengthen our capacity to respond swiftly and compassionately to disasters across the southeast. Click the button below to read more about Jamie's appointment in Metro Atlanta CEO. 

How You Can Help

Our ability to serve depends on the generosity and commitment of people like you. If you feel called to help, there are two ways to get involved today: Join us on the ground to help families rebuild or make a gift to support materials, tools, and staffing needed for home repairs.

Whether you give your time, your resources, or your voice—you are a vital part of this work. Together, we’re transforming communities, one home at a time.
 

With gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

A Congolese Family in Savannah Needs Your Support Today

Dear Friend,

When violence erupted in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Amani and his wife Liliane had no choice but to flee with their three children. Persecuted and afraid, they left behind everything they knew in search of safety—and found it in Savannah, Georgia.

But arriving in the United States was only the beginning.

Starting over in a new country, with a new language and new systems, is overwhelming. Amani now works long hours in a warehouse while Liliane cares for their children and dreams of going back to school to become a nurse. Their children are adapting quickly, but the summer brings new challenges—especially the need for food assistance and structured youth programming while school is out.

This is where you come in.

Your donation today will help Inspiritus provide essential services to refugee families like Amani and Liliane’s—afterschool and summer programs for their children, job training, food assistance, and more.

In the last year alone, Inspiritus has served 5,380 refugees across Atlanta, Savannah, Nashville, and Birmingham—including 689 refugees from the Congo.

But demand is growing while funding is shrinking.

Families like Amani’s have the strength and determination to succeed—they just need the resources to get there. Your gift today can bridge that gap and help turn their hopes into real, lasting opportunity. 

Will you help us empower more families to thrive in their new homes?

Thank you for being part of this life-changing work.

With heartfelt thanks,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus