Mission & Ministry: Cookson Hills Center
Cookson Hills serves Adair, Cherokee and Sequoia counties. They host several programs on their campus, and they strive to be more self-sustaining with a greenhouse and agricultural programs.
“We eventually would like to have gardens, where we provide fresh food and even go to homes and talk to them about how they can cultivate their own food also,” said Rev. Judy Deere, who was appointed the director of Cookson Hills Center this summer.
Deere believes intentionally thinking of others while preparing to serve them helps makes the experience more meaningful for both the recipient and the giver.
“When you start thinking about preparing it that way, it changes the way that you prepare, but it also changes the way that they receive it somehow; you can tell it was made with love,” Deere said. “I think it makes a difference on the whole experience that we have around food. It helps to build relationship, and it helps us to have the time to slow down and enjoy a meal and then share with one another.”
Cookson Hills has many opportunities for VIM teams, whether an afternoon, a weekend or a week-long trip. There is a lodge that sleeps 14 on each side on the grounds. Cookson also takes applications from people that live in the community that might need help with building ramps or home repair work. Email Deere at ndnpreacher@hotmail.com for more information or call 918-457-5181.