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Anthony Charles

Anthony Charles

Men of Valor

Program Director

Hometown: Chicago, IL

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

As a servant of Christ and Program Director of Men of Valor, my vision for Knoxville is to see lives transformed by the power of the Gospel and the love of Jesus Christ. I believe that true restoration begins with a renewed heart, and through Christ-centered mentorship, education, and community engagement, we can break cycles of incarceration, addiction, and despair. I am committed to building bridges between local schools, churches, and correctional institutions - creating pathways for men to encounter grace, grow in faith, and reenter society with purpose. By partnering with faith-based organizations and local leaders, we will cultivate environments where biblical truth shapes character, and where families and communities are strengthened through discipleship and service. This vision is not just about programs - it's about people. It's about seeing every man, woman, and child in Knox County as a soul deeply loved by God, worthy of dignity, and capable of redemption. My prayer is that through this work, Christ will be glorified, lives will be changed, and our community will reflect the Kingdom of God more fully.

What is Knoxville's Best Kept Secret?

NorthStar Church is one of Knoxville's hidden jewels - a vibrant, Christ-centered community with deep roots and a bold vision. Founded in 2003 by Pastor Scott Cagle, NorthStar began as a backyard prayer gathering with just 90 people. Scott, a South Knoxville native, felt a divine calling to plant a church that would reach the city with authenticity, compassion, and the transforming message of Jesus. His leadership helped NorthStar grow into a multi-campus church known for its relational warmth, contemporary worship, and commitment to serving the community. In August 2024, Scott passed the baton to Pastor Corey Haney, ushering in a new chapter of leadership while preserving the church’s original heartbeat. Corey brings fresh energy and a deep love for people, continuing the mission to “lead people to follow Jesus and fully live the life God has for them.” NorthStar’s impact in Knoxville is tangible. From launching a South Knoxville campus to hosting life groups across the city, the church is deeply embedded in the community. It offers dynamic children’s and youth ministries, supports local outreach efforts, and fosters authentic relationships through small groups and service opportunities. With a casual, welcoming atmosphere and a focus on real-life transformation, Northstar is more than a church—it’s a movement of hope and healing. Whether you're new to faith or looking for a place to grow, NorthStar Church remains one of Knoxville’s best-kept secrets—quietly changing lives, one story at a time.

What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?

To strengthen Knoxville, I will continue to lead with the heart of Christ - serving the broken, restoring the fallen, and building bridges of hope across our community. Through Men of Valor, I will expand Christ-centered reentry programs that equip men with spiritual, emotional, and practical tools to thrive beyond incarceration. I will deepen partnerships with local churches, schools, and ministries to create mentorship pipelines that begin in the classroom and extend into adulthood. I will advocate for policies that protect families, promote redemption, and support faith-based initiatives in education - like Bible Release Time - so that young people can grow in wisdom and truth. I will work to ensure that every man we serve is not only restored to society but reconciled to God. By fostering unity among faith leaders, civic partners, and educators, I will help cultivate a culture where the Gospel is not just preached but lived - where grace, accountability, and love transform neighborhoods from the inside out. My prayer is that Knoxville becomes a city known not just for its beauty or growth, but for its compassion, its faith, and its unwavering commitment to the redemptive power of Jesus Christ.

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

One of my most cherished memories in Knoxville is the moment my wife and I both felt a deep, undeniable peace that the Lord was planting us here. After much prayer and seeking, we received clear confirmation that Knoxville wasn't just a stop along the way - it was home. That peace wasn't fleeting; it was rooted in the presence of God, and it became the foundation for building our forever home. Through a series of unmistakable events - divine appointments, timely provision, and doors opening in ways only God could orchestrate - we saw His hand guiding every step. Each moment felt like a gift, a gentle nudge from the Lord affirming that we were exactly where we were meant to be. The foundation of this journey is anchored in Exodus 15:17-18: "You will bring them in and plant them on your own mountain-the place, O Lord, reserved for your own dwelling, the sanctuary, O Lord, that your hands have established, The Lord will reign forever and ever." This scripture became our declaration, a promise that God was not only leading us but establishing us in a place of purpose and blessing. Knoxville became more than a city - it became sacred ground, a place where faith took root and is flourishing. To God be the Glory!

What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand?

The Voice of the Heart by "Chipp Dodd"

What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?

Dave Floyd was a pivotal mentor in my life, and one of the greatest principles he instilled in me was this: "We own nothing; God owns everything." He taught me that in His grace, God entrusts us with the privilege of managing what He has given. This mindset has profoundly shaped my decisions - encouraging generosity toward God's kingdom and others, while cultivating a spirit of frugality in my personal life. Dave's wisdom helped me see stewardship not as a burden, but as a blessing and responsibility, guiding me to live with purpose, humility, and eternal perspective.

What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

Cultivate an intimate and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Anthony Charles
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