This past June, 103 youth from Academy for G.O.D. High School, Tullahoma First Methodist, Pine City Evangelical Free, Carmel UMC, and New Heart Christian joined together for SLAM Week. From June 17-22, they dedicated themselves to service projects across the city, embracing the week’s theme, "How Much It Cost." Through powerful messages from SLAM leaders, including reflections inspired by Colossians 3:23, participants explored what it means to serve wholeheartedly, giving their best effort to support others.
A Week of Meaningful Service
Each day offered new opportunities to connect with the Nashville community and make an impact:
Dandridge: Youth worked together on community projects, strengthening bonds while revitalizing spaces.
Camp Skillz Old Hickory, Nob Hill Kids Camp, Horizon Park Kids Camp, and Overton Brentwood Kids Camp: The team supported camp activities, offering mentorship and encouragement to young campers.
Radnor Apartments: The group painted and cleaned, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents.
Fifty Forward: Youth provided companionship and assistance to elderly community members, helping with various tasks.
Widow & Elderly Care in Hopewell: Participants served elderly residents with hands-on help and meaningful conversations.
Hopewell Gardens: They assisted in the community gardens, learning the value of teamwork and sustainable practices.
Project C.U.R.E., The Bridge, The Branch, Madison Church of Christ Garden, & Meals on Wheels: The team helped organize supplies, deliver meals, and support distribution efforts for families in need.
These projects allowed each participant to understand the value of consistent, heartfelt service. They saw that small acts of kindness, when done with intention, can make a lasting difference in people’s lives.
Inspired Teaching, Lifelong Lessons
The week’s theme, "How Much It Cost," was woven into daily reflections, inviting youth to consider the personal sacrifices that often accompany genuine service. Leaders emphasized that true impact extends beyond the visible outcomes—it’s about the commitment and care put into each action. Through the teachings and projects, the youth saw how serving others with an open heart brings both challenge and fulfillment.
Looking Forward
We are incredibly grateful for the time spent with these young leaders, watching them grow in courage, compassion, and community spirit. Their journey with SLAM has only begun, and we’re excited to see the lasting impact they’ll carry forward as they continue serving and growing in their faith.
A special thanks to our partners and the organizations who welcomed our team, helping make this week possible. Together, we are building a generation who understand the significance of serving with integrity and compassion, creating positive change, one act of service at a time.
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