For 13 years, Joel Bigelow worked at Mi-Tech Steel, where he saw firsthand the number of children who called a rundown motel in Rutherford County home. Day after day, he watched these children play in unsafe conditions — vulnerable, unsupervised, and without consistent guidance or support. Deep down, he knew something had to change. He couldn’t shake the thought: “Someone needs to believe in these kids — to show them that their future can be different.”
In 2015, Joel left his full-time job, purchased a 12-passenger van, and, together with his wife Jeannie, founded the Endure Athletics Foundation. Their mission was simple but powerful — to provide homeless youth with a safe place to play, learn, enjoy a warm meal, and experience Christ-centered mentorship, while planting the seeds to break the cycle of generational poverty.
What began as Saturday morning breakfast and games for 8–10 kids has grown into a thriving year-round program offering afterschool activities, academic support, summer camps, and mentorship — serving hundreds of children and youth over the years. Small victories — like a fifth grader learning to ride a bike or a child lighting up when the Endure Van picks them up, knowing they belong — remind us why this work matters.
Our amazing volunteers have been at the heart of every success, giving their time, energy, and love to help these children thrive.
After ten years of leading Endure, Joel felt God’s calling to step aside, a decision rooted in faith, reflection, and peace. Stepping away from the role he poured his heart into was not easy, but Joel knew that true leadership sometimes means creating space for others to rise. Though no longer leading day-to-day, he remains a guiding presence — advocating for the mission and standing firmly behind Jeannie as he watches her lead with grace and conviction.
In September 2025, Jeannie Bigelow took the reins as Executive Director, carrying forward the mission they began. Under her leadership, Endure continues to flourish — expanding its reach, strengthening programs, and deepening its Christ-centered impact in the lives of children and youth. Joel remains her greatest supporter, proud to see her leading the next chapter of Endure’s story — one defined by growth, faith, and hope for the future.
Endure Athletics will continue to invest in the long-term well-being of Rutherford County’s youth by expanding programs, strengthening partnerships, and cultivating sustainability through community collaboration and faithful stewardship.
Joel Bigelow
Founder and Executive Director
WHO WE SERVE
WHO WE ARE
HOW WE DO IT
