Richard Kennedy opens third annual Resilient Tennessee Collaborative Summit at Trevecca

The third annual Resilient Tennessee Collaborative Summit kicked off on May 21, 2025, at Trevecca Nazarene University, bringing together community leaders and advocates focused on improving outcomes for children and families across the state. Richard Kennedy, executive director of the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to various organizations hosting watch parties throughout Tennessee, including Kindred Place in Memphis and the McNabb Center in Knoxville.

Kennedy emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing challenges faced by children and youth. He highlighted the shift from a top-down approach to empowering local communities to take charge of their own solutions. This change aligns with Governor Bill Lee's vision that state government alone cannot solve the most pressing issues; rather, it is the communities that understand their unique strengths and needs that will drive meaningful change.

The summit aimed to share valuable information from national, state, and community perspectives, encouraging participants to network and collaborate. Kennedy expressed hope that attendees would leave inspired to implement new ideas in their own communities, fostering resilience and support for those in need.

As the event progressed, participants were encouraged to engage with one another, fostering connections that could lead to collaborative efforts in addressing the challenges faced by Tennessee's youth. The summit serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and resources, ultimately aiming to create a culture of support and understanding within the state.