On the Circuit: Rocketown Patrons Party

Michael W. Smith’s Freedom album has filled my home with soaring instrumentals since its release in 2000, and it was a true honor to meet the man himself — and see the legacy he’s built — at the stunning home of Betty and Marty Dickens. The inaugural Rocketown Patrons Party was full of music, mingling and laughter.

Greeted by Rocketown staff — and co-chair pairs Bethni and Trent Hemphill and Dania and Winston Justice — guests couldn’t help but feet immediately at ease in the Dickens’ home as they were offered drinks, an array of delicious bites and enticing discussions with friends new and old. Michael W. Smith stood before a massive hearth to thank those who had made not only the evening’s event but Rocketown itself what it is today.

Event chair Sydney Ball was effusive in her praise for both Rocketown and its founder, and graciously thanked patrons for their continued support of a program that provides what middle and high schoolers so desperately seek: a place to be themselves, people who care and listen, and acceptance.

Established in 1994, Rocketown is a Nashville-based youth outreach facility offering game nights, talent competitions, even family dinners. Rocketown — and their Sixth Avenue Skatepark — is a safe gathering place of peace, purpose and possibilities for youth. Since its inception, Rocketown has served over one million youth — both on site and through community outreaches — representing every social demographic of Middle Tennessee.

Executive Director Kenny Alonzo intoned: “to whom much is given, much is expected,” and discussed the larger mission of Rocketown. While reaching local youth is the primary goal, the institution also serves as a model for faith-based relational outreach across the country. Dozens of organizations seek Rocketown’s assistance for their own communities, so the team facilitates regular workshops for those interested in developing similar ministries. Much was expected, and there’s still more for them to accomplish.

Rocketown truly is, as their mission states, “a place for all young people that offers hope and changes futures.”