A residential program in Knoxville, Tennessee that cultivates land, mind, and soul

Tennessee
EVDF Aerial View
Evening social hour on the porch Chill time after a day working on the farm (there's a TV)
5 Updated 7 days ago
We are a not-for-profit, faith based residential and educational program that provides training and hands-on learning in regenerative agriculture with opportunities to serve with international organizations working to eliminate world hunger. WWOOF visitors are provided additional opportunities to audit classes and assess if they want to enroll in our three-month intensive program. Our visitors experience the daily routines of farm life on a beautiful 880 acre property in the hills of East Tennessee. The farm is dedicated to the practice of diverse food production systems, including permaculture, hydroponics, aeroponics, and greenhouses. Our farm manager is a Permaculture instructor, our campus director/pastor is certified as an instructor of conservation agriculture. We are able to provide a wide range of learning opportunities. We have newly constructed and fully furnished homes for 24 guests and students. Four homes on the property have 12 bedrooms, each with two beds. Each house has a kitchen, dining area, living room, bathrooms, and laundry room. There are also porches for community fellowship times. Plans are for a community center with a commercial kitchen and guest home for people staying on the farm for special events. We love good music, and there is a lot of local talent in Eastern TN. Smokey Mountain Park is nearby, providing many opportunities for hiking, camping, and sightseeing. We work in partnerships with local outreach programs to support schools and underserved communities.
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Learning opportunities
Vegetable farming
Fruit or nut farming
Flower farming
Aromatic or medicinal plants, teas
Vegetable or fruit preservation
Food justice / sovereignty
Mechanics / tools / technology
Methods or systems
Biological pest control
Holistic management
Hydroponics
No-till farming
Permaculture
Regenerative agriculture
Host type
Nonprofit / Community
356.1 Hectares | 880 Acres
Accommodation
4+ WWOOFers
Bedroom
Children accepted
Pets not accepted
Meals
Omnivore
Vegetarian
Vegan
Length of stay
1-2 weeks
3-4 weeks
John & Beth
John & Beth
Member since 2024
Languages spoken: English, Spanish
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Mon
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Response rate: 100% Response time: typically within 3 days
Tennessee
Knoxville, TN
Feedback
Jasmine
Jasmine
United States • June 2026
This was such a wonderful experience. The farm is a beautiful place, but one of the first things I noticed was the presence of the Lord. From the moment I arrived, I could sense the Holy Spirit there. On my first night, I spent time in prayer and experienced such a beautiful presence of God’s love and peace. Everything was new to me, and I loved learning about regenerative farming. I gained so much knowledge and left with a deeper appreciation for God’s creation and how we can steward it well. It was hard work!!! But so worth it! I am so grateful to Buddy for his kindness and for welcoming both my sister and me into the program. His generosity and willingness to teach made this experience even more meaningful. I would highly recommend the Empower Farm to anyone. It is an experience that can truly change your life in a meaningful and lasting way.
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TJ (Troy)
TJ (Troy)
January 2026
Buddy and his team were wonderful to work with. I felt supported and appreciated for the duration of my stay. The work I participated in was not burdensome and I was well supervised. The daily bible study was especially inspiring. The food and fellowship were fantastic. I was able to build skills I will be able to use in the future. I would highly recommend this host!
John & Beth
Reply from John & Beth
TJ is always a welcome guest at our farm. He has a significant level of agriculture knowledge and experience and is so willing to help with any task around the farm. He relates well with staff, students and guests. Thank you TJ for all you have done to help us here
Morgane
Morgane
Netherlands • December 2025
We had a great time at this farm ! They have hydroponic towers which was very cool to learn about. Religion is a big part of life at the farm but no one is obligated to join. People were very sweet and it was a very cozy WWOOF !
Natalie
Natalie
United States • February 2025
My time at this farm has been absolutely wonderful! From day one, Buddy and his wife and the other team members here were fantastic hosts. I've felt so at home on this farm, set in the beautiful rolling hills of east Tennessee. It was exciting for me to see a bald eagle during my first week here while I was outside learning to turn the compost. I've learned so much about farming in green houses, as well as outdoor farming, and prepping food to store, and I'm looking forward to learning even more here as I plan for another visit. The group meals and times spent together with the team working on different tasks and projects really gives a warm feeling of community and family. I came here to gain farming skills, and I've found that I've gained new family and friends as well!
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Jody
Jody
United States • February 2025
This farm offers so much for WWOOFers, especially those who want to learn about regenerative farming and homesteading. I learned how to set up a commercial-grade greenhouse using hydroponic grow systems, composting methods, and more. The setup is amazing with new housing. It's very community-oriented, and everyone on the farm was friendly. Food was provided. The host invited us to group meals several times a week. During downtime, I explored parks and trails. The greater Knoxville area has a lot of things to do and explore. I plan to volunteer at this farm again.
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