Creely Wilson has been honored as the Darrell Waltrip Automotive Hometown Hero for the month of May for her dedication and service to the Women’s Job Corps, a biblically-based initiative that breaks the cycle of poverty by offering education and job training.After learning about this program, Wilson knew she had to bring it to Nashville, so she quickly got to work. She recruited ten volunteers and spoke to churches, recruiting support, and soliciting funds.
In October 1997, Christian Women’s Job Corps opened its doors at Lockland Baptist Church in East Nashville. The ten women who made up the first class received invaluable help in achieving their GED diplomas and learning computer skills. They grew spiritually through Bible studies and faithful mentoring by volunteers. In the following fifteen years, CWJC moved to a larger location, expanded to three locations, and opened a program for men. To date, over 3,000 individuals have gone through the program and in turn have received a new confidence, hope and faith.
As CWJC became established under the direction of Executive Director Becky Sumrall, Creely extended her vision to take CWJC to the entire state. Today there are 22 CWJC locations across Tennessee.
“After 16 years, I am still blessed to be a part of CWJC that offers encouragement for hope, employment, acceptance, education, training for life and job skills, spiritual and physical health,” shared Creely. “Having served in most all areas of this life-changing ministry through the years, I have discovered that this opportunity has enhanced my own life and given me a place to use my gifts to serve God through my community.”
Creely Wilson moved to Tennessee in 1970 with her husband Bill who served as the founding pastor of Brentwood Baptist Church. They served the growing church together for twenty years, until their involvement in local and international missions led to Bill’s move to serve as director of missions for the Tennessee Baptist Convention. Upon his retirement, the Wilson’s headed up the missions ministry at Brentwood Baptist. Now a vibrant and youthful 81-years-old, Creely hasn’t slowed down much. She didn’t allow Bill’s death in 2006 to curtail her work; she stays involved with the CWJC site near her home in Franklin. She also participates in several musical groups, and is currently learning to play a dulcimer. Her three children, nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren provide love, support, and an abundance of motherly/grandmotherly pride.
“My church was instrumental in my choice to live a missions lifestyle,” she says. “My motto is ‘What can you say yes to?’”
As a part of her award, a $500 donation will be made in Creely’s honor to CWJC of Middle Tennessee.
About DWA’s Hometown Heroes
Darrell Waltrip Automotive’s Hometown Heroes is a monthly event honoring locals making a difference in their community. To learn more or to nominate your hero visit DarrellWaltrip.com/heroes
Please join our FREE Newsletter