Daily Inspiration: Meet Blake Parks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Blake Parks.

Hi Blake, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Following 35 years of a career as a Bank Executive, I became active in working with nonprofit ministries serving the most needy. I spent 6 years serving as Chief Operating Officer at Bridge Ministry in Nashville. It has been my pleasure to serve as Executive Director at Gallatin CARES for the past 6 years.

Gallatin CARES is a 501c3 Ministry that provides temporary emergency relief for families enduring traumatic events that spiraled them into a place where they can make ends meet. We serve the families of Sumner County.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road is never smooth in this line of work. We are dependent upon the generosity of the community to be able to accomplish our mission.

In our case, we are funded by church partners, corporate friends, neighbors, and local foundation grants.

There is no public money in our funding. There is always an array of public feelings when you bring the most needy into visibility. Fortunately, we are in a very loving community in Gallatin.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have tried to use my experience in business and finance to bring a much-needed acumen to this work.

My view is that many non-profits are driven by a passion to accomplish the mission but lack an understanding of the ability to plan, fund, and execute the vision. Hopefully, this blend of experience as well as a passion to accomplish the mission, offers me an advantage.

What matters most to you?
The most important thing to me is that we understand that our work is truly about spreading the good news of the gospel.

We interact with every family we serve. I never want to be accused of being a charity where one can receive loveless help and aid.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gallatincares.org
• Facebook: Gallatin CARES