This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 254th installment visiting with Chris Spradley, executive director of Beloved Roots Ranch which aims to be a haven of healing and restoration for U.S. military veterans, offering them a place to heal from mental, physical, and emotional difficulties through holistic therapies and the calming influences of nature and animals.
Describe more about what Beloved Roots Ranch offers. We are veterans helping veterans heal from the physical, mental, and emotional wounds of service. Our ranch and resources will provide a sanctuary of rest, reflection, and restoration, empowering individuals to reclaim their well-being. Through activities aimed at personal healing, they are better equipped to reintegrate into society and continue serving others with strength and purpose.
What is your background? I’m an Air Force veteran who has worked in a variety of capacities that allowed me to learn the skills required to dream, plan, and execute the vision of Beloved Roots Ranch, with a lot of help from others who have caught the vision. This is 100% a leading by God to start this journey towards using my skills, experiences, and the things I’ve overcome to help others.
Describe your clients. We will primarily serve veterans through reintegration and healing, while also providing retreat and therapy activities to other groups that support veterans.
What factors affect your business? As a 501(C)(3) non-profit, we rely on donations and sponsorships. This is a challenge in any economy, and with the recent governmental cuts to veteran services, including federal grants, more veterans need help, with fewer resources to pull from to provide the help they need.
What do you enjoy most about this calling? This is a mission of passion and giving. The experience of helping others can be challenging, but it is always rewarding. I would love to partner with more business owners to accomplish the goals of helping veterans and highlighting our shared success stories at the personal business level.