The Urban Alliance’s Future of Hope Institute provides high school students with an opportunity to engage their city by inspiring them to think theologically about the challenges of living in a contemporary urban context. For nine months, program participants engage with proven community leaders, explore possible careers, dive deeply into Biblical reflection and cultural analysis, and are refreshed through community and worship.
The Future of Hope Institute is a selective program designed for rising juniors and seniors from Knoxville area inner-city high schools. The program begins with a three-day retreat followed by a week-long institute in downtown Knoxville. During this time, students have the opportunity to interact with community leaders, entrepreneurs and educators. Lastly, students have an opportunity to examine their city through a biblical lens.
Upon completion of the week-long institute, students form teams and are partnered with a mentor and project advisor. Over the next eight months, each team is responsible for designing and delivering a community-based vision project that meets a critical need in their community. These projects can address a range of issues including housing, violence, racism, healthcare, or education. The program ends with a banquet where teams present their finished projects to an assembly of peers and community leaders. Upon successful completion of the program, participants are presented with a $2000 scholarship to a college or university of their choice. Participants choosing to attend Johnson University will receive an additional $1000 per year for four years.
– Dametraus Jaggers, Director of the Future of Hope Institute