KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Shoes for School is an annual event that offers free shoes, school supplies and resources for students and their families. It's organized by the Knoxville Area Urban League and will start at 9 a.m. on Aug. 3 at the Jacob Building in Chilhowee Park.
The Urban League's support for students and families doesn't end there.
"I think that this serves as a great kick start for the school year, but challenges throughout the year always present themselves," said Carly Hammonds, the director of education and youth services for KAUL. "And so it's super important for you to know that they have institutions and organizations that are dedicated to ensuring their success."
She said Shoes for School is now providing resources for the whole family. She also said the event offers young people mentorship opportunities, giving them the chance to grow and set themselves up for success into adulthood.
"Our flagship program for youth is our National Achiever Society, and a component of that is our premium NAS experience where we partner with professionals in the community that are looking to serve as mentors," said Hammonds. "Mentorship is invaluable. It helps to circumvent a lot of different things that youth are facing, whether that looks like peer pressure or bullying or even just preparation for post-secondary."
She said there are also programs for adults, including young professionals. The Urban League hopes to create a sense of community for all people in Knoxville through its different programs and resources.
Hammonds added that the Urban League offers programs that help formerly incarcerated people expunge charges and regain voting rights, and other programs that encourage entrepreneurship There are also health resources.
She said the Urban League could also use volunteers for its events and programs. It is also accepting donations, and people can become members of the Knoxville Area Urban League to support it.
"There's not an area within the Knoxville Area Urban League where we couldn't use the community support," said Hammonds.
