By Ivan Sanchez
NASHVILLE, TN — Harvest Hands is more than just an organization; it’s a beacon of hope and transformation in South Nashville. Founded on the vision of the late Dr. Howard Olds and led by Rev. Brian Hicks since 2007, Harvest Hands has been dedicated to holistic community development, focusing on education, healthy living, spiritual formation, and economic empowerment.
It all began with a simple question: What does the community need? Through conversations with neighbors in South Nashville, Harvest Hands identified a pressing need for after-school programs. In response, they launched a small after-school program in 2008, starting with just 12 students and a handful of volunteers. Since then, their impact has grown exponentially, now serving 100 students daily across various programs.
As Nashville underwent rapid redevelopment and gentrification, Harvest Hands made a strategic decision to relocate to Napier-Sudekum in 2016, an area marked by poverty and joblessness. Despite the move, they retained their commitment to the Wedgewood-Houston community, renovating a building to open Humphreys Street Coffee Shop in 2018, their first brick-and-mortar store.
Humphreys Street isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a social enterprise that provides employment and mentorship opportunities for local teens. With 16 teens employed annually, Humphreys Street generates revenue reinvested directly into the community and students served by Harvest Hands. The teens receive training in coffee roasting and crafting body products, alongside mentorship, financial literacy education, and access to college tours and scholarships.
The commitment to craftsmanship is evident in every product from Humphreys Street. Handcrafted with care, these goods not only provide quality for consumers but also opportunities for students to learn and grow. Visitors to the shop at 424 Humphreys Street can witness firsthand the dedication and talent of these young artisans.
100 percent of the profits from Humphreys Street are reinvested into programs and scholarships for students. Every purchase contributes to the empowerment of youth in South Nashville, providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive.
At Harvest Hands, the mission is clear: to empower neighbors to realize their fullest potential in Christ. It’s not just about providing assistance but about working alongside the community to bring about lasting change. Through education, mentorship, and economic opportunities, Harvest Hands is transforming lives and building a brighter future for South Nashville.
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