SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHIDLREN’S HOME LAUNCHES ARTS ACADEMY
The Smoky Mountain Children’s Home (SMCH) hosted its Annual Christmas Banquet at the Sevierville Convention Center. During the program, Dr. Dusty Wilson, Director of the Church of God International Worship Initiative, presented SMCH Executive Directors Dr. Walt and Tammie Mauldin with five electronic keyboards, three acoustic guitars and a complete drum set. With these instruments, SMCH is launching an Arts Academy in 2025. In addition, a $10,000 check was provided to assist in paying for music lessons for the youth who are residents at SMCH.
Dr. Dusty Wilson commented, “The Instruments of Grace is a nonprofit endeavor that places musical instruments in the hands of young people who may otherwise not have the opportunity to afford their own. I am personally proud to make this investment in the lives of the young people at the Smoky Mountain Children’s Home in Sevierville, Tennessee.”
Dr. Walt Mauldin expressed his appreciation to Dr. Dusty Wilson, Music Board Chair Steve Allen and other music board members for the generous gifts. Mauldin stated, “We have longed for the day our youth would have the opportunity to participate in music lessons, as a part of an academy. These new instruments, as well as the anonymous donor, will help us change the trajectory of our students’ lives.” Mauldin noted that another aspect of the academy will include lessons in dance (specifically ballet). The young people at the Smoky Mountain Children’s Home are very excited about this new venture involving music and the arts.
Along with the Smoky Mountain Children’s Home, other beneficiaries associated with the International Worship Initiative and Instruments of Grace include the Heart of Florida Youth Ranch, Peniel Ministries, Redemption Point School in Ooltewah, Tennessee and a church plant in Tokyo, Japan.
If you would be interested in helping support the ongoing Arts Academy Project, please feel free to contact us at 865-453-4644 or go to www.smch.org and click the donate button.
