The 2022 Carry the Torch luncheon, hosted by the Volunteer Ministry Center (VMC), will begin at 11:45 a.m. The luncheon is part of a Mission Fair beginning at 10 a.m. Agencies that provide housing, general assistance, medical, and behavioral health services throughout the community, along with VMC, will present booths and interact with visitors who are looking for volunteer opportunities. The keynote speaker will be Becca Stevens, a leader, priest and entrepreneur and president of Thistle Farms, a multifaceted, international nonprofit. She founded the organization more than 20 years ago to provide a sanctuary and healing for women survivors of prostitution, trafficking and addiction who had not historically been served and has helped to establish justice enterprises and to raise more than $55 million in funding.

Carry the Torch aspires to not only raise funds, but also raise awareness of the myriad factors surrounding the issue of homelessness. Limited reserved seating is available at $100 per seat. Sponsorships also are available. For additional information regarding tickets and sponsorship or sponsored tables, contact Mary Beth Ramey at 865-524-3926, ext. 229, or visit carrythetorchknoxville.com. Attire: Business, business casual or casual.