JOSIE’S STORY

Meet Josie Harbin: A Trailblazing Volunteer with a Heart for Sport and Service

Josie gives out “high-fives” at basketball camp this past June.

A Brief Introduction to Josie Harbin:

Josie's life is a tapestry woven with threads of passion, adventure and a deep love of sport. She is a familiar face on the courts, having played collegiate basketball for three years before finding her way into the coaching world. But her journey hasn’t stopped there; Josie is also on the path to becoming a healthcare professional, aspiring to become a Physician Assistant, and her heart is as big as her dreams. Apart from her athletic endeavors, Josie has another passion that burns within her: volunteering. She is a dedicated member of the Young Life staff for the Smoky Mountain area, always eager to positively impact young people's lives.

Discovering The Athletes Table (TAT):

Josie's college basketball coach introduced her to The Athletes Table (TAT), a unique organization that combined her love for sport with her desire to make a difference in the world. TAT was recruiting volunteers for their first-ever basketball camp in Jericho, a place she had only read about in books and seen in documentaries. The prospect of traveling to such a historic and meaningful location while using her passion for basketball to inspire young minds was an opportunity Josie couldn't resist.

When asked why she chose to volunteer with TAT, Josie's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. She explained, "I chose to volunteer with TAT mainly for my passion in sports. I grew up playing sports and the mission of TAT sounded great. I knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Josie's Experiences with TAT:

Her experiences with TAT have become unforgettable chapters in her life's story. Josie found herself on a plane, crossing oceans and continents to reach the Holy Land. The moment she landed, she was captivated by the region's breathtaking beauty, a stark contrast to the basketball courts and the natural landscapes of East Tennessee. Yet, it wasn't the scenic landscapes that left an indelible mark on Josie's heart; it was the children she met in the camps. As she coached and played with them, their faces lit up with joy and hope. Josie's love for sport became a bridge to connect with these young souls, and she cherished the moments they spent together.

Recalling her experiences, Josie shared, "The camps themselves hold a special place in my heart. I love the kids and the people I have come to know and cherish with TAT." She reminisced about her first trip to Jericho, a life-changing and eye-opening journey that reshaped her perspective on the world. Josie's second visit to Jericho was different. She had the opportunity to stay longer, immerse herself in the culture, and continue building relationships with the children. It was as if she had never left. The kids ran to her, embracing her like an old friend. One of her favorite moments was during a Jericho basketball game against a club team from Jerusalem. Even from the bench, the kids in the crowd rushed to hug her, creating a heartwarming and nontraditional bond between coach and players.

The Importance of TAT's Work:

When asked if she believed in the importance of TAT's work, Josie's response was resolute. "There is no question of whether TAT's work is important or not. You can see the impact the organization is already having upon these kids and communities. It is more than sport; it brings hope and allows for growth in all areas of these kids' lives."

Josie's Future with TAT:

As we concluded our interview, I posed one final question to Josie: Would she consider volunteering with TAT again in the future? Her answer was a resounding "Yes." She expressed her unwavering belief in the mission, change, and impact that TAT is making in the world. She considers it an honor to be, and continue to be, a small part of this remarkable organization. She has even chosen to be a team coordinator for future teams that will travel to the region with TAT, helping them prepare and supporting them through the orientation process!

And so, Josie’s journey continues, filled with the echoes of children's laughter and the knowledge that sport can be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in every corner of the world..