Last week, our Oak Tree family gathered for a night we’ll never forget—a celebration of 10 years as a non-profit. From the first note Shayla played as the doors opened to the final song of worship, the evening was filled with gratitude, sharing memories, and vision for the future.
We began by sharing a meal together, a reminder that so much of Oak Tree’s story has always unfolded around tables—whether over a potluck, at Reading Club, or in Bible studies. It felt right to start our celebration breaking bread side by side like a joyous family reunion!
Looking Back with Gratitude
The theme for the night came from 1 Corinthians 3:7–11, planting and building. We reflected on Christ being our cornerstone, the foundation on which everything else is built, and how each person coming along to plant seeds and water the garden has had a vital part to play.
We had the pleasure of having Oak Tree’s first employee and founding member, Halie Kawell, back with us to teach a mini Bible lesson just like old times! She explained the image of stones in Scripture—markers of God’s faithfulness and reminders of our covenant with Him. Halie spoke of the 12 stones at Mount Sinai and in the Jordan River, symbols of remembrance and renewal. She reminded us that Oak Tree itself began with just a vision, unsure of what would come, but confident that God was already at work in the neighborhood.
The greatest evidence of that faithfulness stood on stage beside her: Alonzo and Junior, who first came to Oak Tree as preschoolers. Now teenagers, they shared their own memories—Bible Club, Rock the Village, field trips—and their hopes for the future.
Giving Flowers
We then took a moment to “give people their flowers!” Recognizing the many volunteers, founders, and community members whose “yes” built Oak Tree over the past decade. Everyone received sunflower and zinnia seeds from Oak Tree’s garden, table sponsors received the centerpieces made by our kids and community members, and we honored two volunteers, Jason and Becky, who have faithfully served for the ENTIRE 10 years!
Stones of Remembrance
But the night also carried the weight of the sorrow we’ve faced over the last decade. We felt it was important to acknowledge our lament even in our celebration. We paused to remember many members of our Oak Tree family who are no longer with us. Their lives have shaped Oak Tree, taught us much about the heart of God, and their absence is felt deeply. As Oak Tree teens placed a stone for each person on our memorial stack we prayed: “Lord, we remember.” These stones will be placed in the garden of the Newman Center for Renewal as a reminder of all the Lord has carried us through, and His faithfulness to carry us through whatever trials we will face in the years to come.
Looking Forward with Hope
As we turned our eyes to the future, Junior and Alonzo shared their dreams: safer streets, bigger playgrounds, Oak Tree expanding other neighborhoods, and opportunities for every child to thrive. Their words captured the heart of why Oak Tree exists—to nurture hope, dignity, and opportunities for generations to come.
We then cast vision for the Newman Center for Renewal—a space designed by the dreams of our neighbors for the next 10 years of expanding ministry in Gate City. This space will be an oasis for everyone to have access to mental health resources and job training without having to worry about transportation or costs. With over $200,000 already raised toward the $800,000 goal, the dream feels daunting yet possible by God’s grace. We were reminded that Oak Tree has never grown because we were professional fundraisers, but because God has been faithful to provide every step of the way through His Body working together as one.
An Invitation to Join the Work
Board member, Bishop George Whitlock closed the night with a simple but powerful question: What seed will you plant? What stone will you lay as we step into the next 10 years? Guests were invited to give, to volunteer, to advocate, and to dream alongside us as we continue this journey together. If you would like to be a part of making this dream become a reality we would love to speak with you! Maybe you can give financially, or maybe you can host a dinner party with friends for us to share this vision, have us come speak to your small group or see if your employer offers matching grants. Maybe you or someone you know works in construction and would like to bid on this project and donate their labor. There are so many ways for you to get involved!
If you’d like to discuss your ideas to be involved you can schedule a 30 minute Zoom call with us, RSVP for our next Lunch and Learn, and more at THIS LINK.
Worship
At the end, Shayla Carter led us in worship. The only fitting response to this beautiful night of remembrance and renewal, lifting our voices in praise to the One who has carried Oak Tree through every joy and sorrow.
As we reflect on this milestone, our hearts are full. God has been faithful in every trial and every victory. He has given us the privilege of seeing Him provide growth to seeds that were planted by so many who came before us. The story of Oak Tree is not finished—it is still being written in every child, every volunteer, every act of love that brings us one step closer to the Renewal of our community into a flourishing garden.
“For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.” Isaiah 61:11
With your help we raised over $80,000 with TWO of you matching our $10,000 donor challenge!
We also sold over $4,000 worth of merchandise with more than $1,000 of that going directly into the hands of creators in our community!
It's not too late to give. Click the button below and put "Oaks of Righteousness" in the appeal line to help us make it to $100,000!
Here’s to the next 10 years of growing together—rooted in Christ, trusting Him for the healing of our community.
