More than 150 volunteers turn a week of service into lasting improvements across East Tennessee

What happens when more than 150 people step away from their regular jobs and spend a few hours helping their neighbors? Schools get a fresh coat of paint, nonprofit organizations receive much-needed assistance, and communities become stronger.

That was the story behind United Way of Greater Knoxville’s 2026 Week of Caring, held September 21-24.

Volunteers representing 14 corporate teams contributed more than 420 hours of hands-on service, assembled 350 care kits and provided more than $16,000 in estimated service value to East Tennessee organizations.

But the real impact went beyond the numbers.

At Beaumont Magnet Academy, Erie Insurance volunteers painted and refreshed portions of the school’s exterior. At Knoxville Botanical Gardens, a Phillips Infrastructure team dug roots, spread mulch and prepared sunflowers for children’s enrichment activities.

At Helping Mamas Knoxville, volunteers from PYA Accountants & Advisors and Realty Trust Group landscaped, cleaned the organization’s mobile van and packaged essential items for families.

Tess Freer, executive director of Helping Mamas, explained that volunteers are essential to the organization’s small staff. Projects such as cleaning the van and improving the landscaping might otherwise remain unfinished.

Other teams helped prepare a podcast studio at the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center and organized the Red Bird Community Store at Wesley House Community Center.

The projects were different, but the motivation was the same: Neighbors helping neighbors.

United Way President and CEO Chrystal Armstrong Brown emphasized that Week of Caring allows businesses and individuals to contribute their time and talents in ways that multiply the efforts of organizations already serving the community.

For the volunteers, the experience also offered something that cannot be measured in dollars or hours — an opportunity to connect with people whose lives are affected by their service.

The week demonstrated that going above and beyond does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes it means picking up a paintbrush, planting a flower, organizing supplies or simply showing up when help is needed.

Above & Beyond recognizes individuals and groups whose extraordinary efforts make a difference in the lives of others. This week, that recognition belongs to the volunteers and community partners who showed what East Tennessee can accomplish when people work together.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities through United Way of Greater Knoxville.

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