In this month’s Nonprofit Spotlight, we shine a light on KARM Stores, a Tennessee-based organization whose work is deeply rooted in community and second chances. KARM stands for Knox Area Rescue Ministries, a long-standing nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness in East Tennessee. Their partnership with ReEmployAbility through the Transition2Work® program has been transformational—benefiting the injured workers they host, their team, and the communities they serve. Through this collaboration, KARM Stores continues to strengthen communities while empowering people on their journey toward healing and renewed purpose.
KARM Stores Mission
At KARM Stores, every task, donation, and volunteer contributes to something larger. Their mission is to support Knox Area Rescue Ministries’ work to restore lives of our homeless neighbors through Christ-centered support. Whether it’s sorting donations, helping on the retail floor, or supporting behind the scenes, every hour given helps fund meals, shelter, and restoration programs for those who need them most.
By partnering with ReEmployAbility, KARM Stores has been able to extend meaningful volunteer roles to injured workers, creating an environment for individuals to safely transition back into the workforce while also serving a mission-centered purpose in their community.
A Testimony of Impact
Kristin Mills, Senior Volunteer & Engagement Manager, shares how significant this partnership has been for both the organization and the volunteers who come through Transition2Work:
“Transition2Work has given us the opportunity to welcome injured works as part of our volunteer teams, where they not only regain confidence and rebuild skills but also bring real value to our daily operations. Their contributions—whether sorting donations, assisting customers, or supporting behind the scenes—have strengthened our stores and advanced our mission. At the same time, we’ve been able to provide a safe, supportive environment that helps the transition back to work while knowing they are making a meaningful impact in the community.”
This partnership reflects the power of connection—with individuals receiving support, contributing to meaningful work, and helping KARM Stores reach even more people in need.
Recognition of an Outstanding Team
KARM Stores proudly recognizes their Community and Volunteer Engagement team for their dedication to making the Transition2Work program a success. With warmth and consistency, they’ve created a welcoming environment for injured workers and volunteers alike. Their commitment ensures smooth operations and lasting impact, inspiring everyone around them to serve with excellence.
The Value of Our Partnership
For KARM Stores, Transition2Work is more than a volunteer placement program—it’s a pathway to healing, confidence, and community connection. Injured workers are given the opportunity to ease back into routine, engage with supportive teams, and contribute to life-changing programs that help individuals facing significant challenges.
This partnership reinforces KARM’s ongoing mission of creating a sustainable cycle of giving and receiving. By supporting injured workers in their recovery journey, they’re also helping fuel the broader network of services that provide hope to individuals and families across Tennessee through practical services like meals, housing support, and structured recovery programs.
KARM Stores remains grateful for this continued collaboration and looks forward to continuing to amplify its impact.
To learn more about KARM Stores mission visit their website at karm.org/karm-stores/