Knoxville resident honored for 24 years of volunteer work
Brandy Smith named TDS’ Volunteer of the Quarter
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (June 16, 2025) — TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is proud to recognize Brandy Smith as its Volunteer of the Quarter, honoring her nearly 24 years of unwavering dedication to uplifting the Knoxville community. Smith, a longtime TDS associate, has become a beacon of hope for the city’s most vulnerable populations, especially the unhoused and elderly.
Smith’s passion for service was ignited at age 10 by a heartfelt birthday letter from her grandmother: “If you’re half as kind to people as you are to animals, you’ll go far in life.” That message became a guiding principle, evolving from a childhood love of animals into a lifelong mission to serve people in need.
Her community service journey began at Powell United Methodist Church, where she and her partner, Erin, found a welcoming and compassionate congregation. Despite living in a part of Knoxville often overlooked, Smith saw strength and resilience in her neighbors—many of whom are unhoused.
“People who aren’t from here generally try to stay away because it’s not particularly glamorous,” said Smith. “Despite the large homeless community in this area, I’ve never felt threatened. In fact, we’ve found the people here are incredibly supportive and trusting.”
One of Smith’s most impactful initiatives is the tent ministry, which she launched with support from Powell United Methodist Church. After securing a grant, Smith and her team purchased a bus, a serving tent, power generators, and heaters to host monthly events that provide hot meals, veterinary services, and health supplies to the unhoused. The ministry now draws 15–18 volunteers each month and has received donations from across the country, including Tennessee, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Oregon.
Beyond the tent ministry, Smith leads the church’s Benevolence Committee, helping community members with rent, utilities, medication, clothing, and diapers. She personally fields calls, verifies needs, and coordinates with providers to ensure timely assistance.
Smith also founded the Helping Hands Facebook group, which has grown to over 1,700 members. The group serves as a safe space for people to request or offer help and share information about local resources.
“Many people haven’t had to experience it, but it can be so hard to ask for help, even when you desperately need it,” said Smith. “It’s been remarkable to see this group grow into what it is today.”
Looking ahead, Smith hopes to expand the tent ministry to include housing support, assistance with obtaining essential documents like IDs and birth certificates, and access to more comprehensive health and mental health services.
“My hope is these programs continue to grow and reach the folks that need us,” she said.
TDS is honored to celebrate Brandy Smith’s extraordinary contributions and the lasting impact she continues to make in Knoxville.
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