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Director of Special Needs Ministry

Mary Kendall Akers

Mary Kendall was born and raised in Nashville, TN. She attended Christ Presbyterian Academy and Christ Presbyterian Church where she was greatly shaped by the teachers, youth leaders, friends, and families in her community. Mary Kendall is the daughter of Scott and Peggy Barker, and sister to Charlie and Molly. Molly, her younger sister, has Down syndrome and is a big part of why Mary Kendall has such a heart for the Special Needs community. Molly taught her a lot throughout life as well as gave her a passion for serving and loving people with special needs. She moved to Knoxville to attend the University of Tennessee where she was quickly plugged into an amazing community and became a Young Life Capernaum leader. She served as a volunteer leader for 3 years before joining the Young Life staff as the Capernaum Director for the next 8 years. There she was a part of developing and growing Young Life's ministry to high school students with special needs all over Knoxville. Mary Kendall has been married to Will for 8 years and they have 3 wonderful and energetic girls. Margo (6) is in kindergarten and twins Evie and Caroline (4) are a bunch of fun! Mary Kendall has been a stay-at-home mom since her twins were born but is so excited to step into this new role as the Director of Special Needs. It is very clear how God has orchestrated many things to make this position happen. She believes God has called all people, of all abilities, to know him deeply and has gifted all of us specifically to display His Glory and works.