Most people know the homeless can go to Nashville Rescue Mission and receive food, clothing, and shelter. The Mission does that and so much more. And now it sounds even better thanks to Frank Baird, Assistant Professor in Sound Reinforcement at MTSU.
“My wife and I have been financial supporters of the Mission for over 13 years,” said Frank. “But I never really thought much about volunteering there. It wasn’t until my friend Chris Kearney started working at the Mission a few years ago that I learned of this great opportunity to use my time and talents to improve the quality of the chapel experience for guests while providing my college students with some real-world application of what they are learning.”
Both professional touring musicians and live sound engineers, Chris and Frank have known each other for over 15 years. Frank’s experiences as a sound engineer touring with Elton John and Madonna gave him great insight into the technical aspects of running live sound. He’s also installed sound equipment for churches all over Nashville, and managed a theatre at Belmont University where he supported more than 10,000 live events.
“Frank is one of the best sound engineers I know,” said Chris Kearney. “Sharing the hope of Jesus to all who enter our doors is foundational to the Mission’s ministry. It’s essential that guests can hear the message shared during each nightly chapel service. With Frank’s help, the quality of the sound in the chapel has been greatly elevated, and it makes for a much better and richer chapel experience for our guests.”
“Serving at the Mission has changed me,” said Frank. “It’s something I talk about in my class and have incorporated it into the curriculum. Each semester, students are required to complete three homework assignments outside of the classroom that involve running sound for a live show. Running sound for Nashville Rescue Mission’s nightly chapel service is one of their options. This exposes students to a worthy ministry and is a wonderful opportunity for MTSU students to come to Nashville to serve, learn, and hone their skills before they graduate.”
“I’m so grateful to be doing this,” said Frank. “I believe in what Nashville Rescue Mission stands for. I can see that people are genuinely being helped. Not only can I give back, but this also gives our students an opportunity to serve the Mission community and prepare them as future leaders.”
Want to use your unique skills and talents for good? Check out volunteer opportunities at the Mission: nashvillerescuemission.org/volunteer
