New name.
Same Heart for students.

Ten years in the making! First Place Ministries was officially founded on July 22, 2026!

God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is our ultimate provider, director, and sustainer, and His love motivates us to action. We want to ensure every student knows they are seen, they are loved, and they are never alone. First Place Ministries will assume complete ownership of the Freedom for Youth Ministries, Knoxville site as of October 1, 2026. God is ever worthy to be praised!

For a decade, students in Marion County came to Freedom for Youth Ministries, Knoxville site to build a strong relationship with Jesus, improve classroom performance, acquire new skills for future employment, and become young leaders in the community. Today, students come to First Place Ministries. We’re a locally governed independent nonprofit, with the same caring leaders and volunteers, welcoming students and offering a safe place to learn about God and the part He plays in their lives.

Based on our key verse, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33 ESV) We strive to be a first place for all students to feel welcomed and safe, pointing them and all who connect with us to God as first in our lives and hearts. We are a first place to find community, ask questions, and learn about God through exploring, discovering, and journeying together in relationship with Jesus Christ.

We give God all the glory for revealing His plan to give hope and empower youth and call Christians from all walks of life to join Him in His plan. Praise be to God Almighty and His son Jesus Christ for the grace, mercy, and blessings given through the Holy Spirit upon First Place Ministries.