We are pleased to introduce Aaron Price, a dynamic new member of our Community Action Council! Aaron serves as the Vice President of Community Engagement at Emory Valley Center in Oak Ridge, TN, bringing over a decade of dedicated nonprofit experience to Tennessee Nonprofit Network.
Aaron joined Emory Valley Center in 2023, where he oversees fundraising, communications, public relations, and represents the organization at community events. A University of Tennessee alumnus, he has previously worked as a development professional for the Boy Scouts of America, InterFaith Health Center, and MEDIC Regional Blood Center, significantly contributing to health, education, and youth initiatives.
His inspiration to join the Community Action Council stemmed from a desire to connect with other leaders across the state committed to strengthening the nonprofit sector. At Emory Valley Center, he has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing nonprofits, from advocacy and funding to workforce development, and believes in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change.
For Aaron, the nonprofit sector in Tennessee is the heart of communities, where compassion meets action. Nonprofits are often the first to respond to needs and persistently work towards a better future, providing essential services, advocating for vulnerable populations, and strengthening the social fabric of the state. Working in disability services, he has seen how nonprofits transform lives through connection, dignity, and empowerment.
During his time with Tennessee Nonprofit Network, Aaron hopes to be a strong advocate for cross-sector and regional collaboration. A key goal is to elevate the voices of community-based organizations, especially those in rural or under-resourced areas, ensuring they have access to necessary tools, relationships, and policy support. He also aims to contribute to building a more unified voice for Tennessee’s nonprofit sector, proactively shaping the state’s future through coordinated efforts.
Aaron shares a happy home in Fountain City with his wife, Jenny, whom he married in 2017. Their family also includes two cats, Rosie and Bob, and a lovable dog named Finn, who bring joy and keep them grounded.
As Vice President of Community Engagement at Emory Valley Center, Aaron enjoys building relationships with partners, donors, and community members to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He finds immense satisfaction in seeing how connection and collaboration create lasting impact, whether by opening new opportunities, launching inclusive programs, or advocating for systems change.
While not an avid reader, the last book Aaron finished was “A Pirate Looks at 50” by Jimmy Buffett. As someone approaching 50 himself, he found it a fun, reflective read that served as a reminder to pursue adventure, remain curious, and embrace life fully.
A native Tennessean from Bristol, Aaron appreciates the state’s unique beauty and balance. He loves the ease of transitioning from city energy to mountain tranquility in under an hour, highlighting Tennessee’s blend of nature, culture, and community.
His all-time favorite movie is “Jaws,” which he loves for its perfect blend of suspense and humor. For local enjoyment, he and his wife can often be found at ShultzBrau or Yee-Haw, places where their dog Finn is welcome during warmer months.
A surprising hobby of Aaron’s is his recent attempt to learn the ukulele and guitar. If he could travel anywhere, he would head to Fiji or another South Pacific island to explore the natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and slower pace of life after previously traveling through the Caribbean.
His advice for those starting in the nonprofit sector is to be patient and open-minded, acknowledging that while rewarding, the work can be challenging. He stresses the importance of flexibility, curiosity, and remembering that progress takes time. Crucially, he advises prioritizing self-care and recharging, as “you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Outside of his work with Tennessee Nonprofit Network, Aaron has developed a passion for animal rescue, especially after adopting his first dog. He deeply appreciates organizations that tirelessly care for and rehome animals in need, making support for rescue efforts and adoption close to his heart.
A fun fact about Aaron that most people don’t know is his long-standing status as a “Parrothead.” He has attended over 60 Jimmy Buffett concerts since 1994, with his music and message being a significant part of his life. Even after Buffett’s passing, he continues to catch performances by members of the Coral Reefer Band to keep the spirit alive.