Next Step banquet celebrates transformation, testimony, and a dream taking shape

It was more than a banquet. It was a celebration of transformation, testimony, and a long-awaited dream beginning to take shape.

At the heart of the evening was the family who helped build that vision.

The Roland family opened the night, beginning with Carly Darby, an attorney and partner at Byars, Darby & Damas, and Davy Roland of Roland Digital Media, who shared how their parents’ example of faith and service shaped their lives. Their remarks set the tone, reflecting a legacy of compassion, consistency, and a commitment to helping others.

They were followed by Diane and Dave Roland, founders of Next Step for Life, who brought the audience deeper into the story behind the ministry.

Diane Roland shared how her calling began long before the program itself. She spoke about recognizing a need in the lives of young girls she encountered—many who were searching for stability, guidance, and belonging.

She realized they needed more than support. They needed a mother figure.

That calling became deeply personal within her own family as well. Diane shared how she witnessed God’s transformative power through her son, Davy, as he overcame drug addiction. Seeing that restoration firsthand strengthened her belief that no situation is beyond hope.

“I believed that our great God could change anyone, any situation, just like He did for me and my family,” she said, thanking those in attendance.

Dave Roland then took the audience back to where his story began.

He shared that as a young child in 1961, living in Fairbanks, Alaska, his life changed dramatically when his mother left the family.

At just three years old, alongside his five-year-old sister, his future became uncertain.

He explained that while many children today enter foster care or state custody, his story took a different path because of one decision.

A judge called his grandfather.

His grandfather, a carpenter who lived a modest life with his grandmother, was asked if he would take the children.

Without hesitation, he said yes—but with one condition.

He asked that he be given custody of both children until they turned 21, including Dave’s sister, who was not his biological grandchild.

“Most kids don’t have that,” Roland said. “That’s what we’re talking about at Next Step. We’re talking about putting families back together. It’s not just about helping someone get on the right path. It’s about generations.”

He then challenged the audience with a message that continues to define the ministry.

“When we stand before God, the question will be, ‘What did you do with what I gave you?’” he said. “What you did for the least of these, you did for me.”

Together, their voices framed the evening not just as a fundraiser, but as a mission rooted in faith, family, and lasting impact.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere reflected both joy and vision.

A vibrant 1950s-themed setting, brought to life through the creativity of Amy DePriest Jennings, created a nostalgic and engaging environment. From greasers to poodle skirts, every detail contributed to an evening that balanced celebration with purpose.

Guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated menu that leaned fully into the diner theme.

The evening began with smoked ribs, pork shoulder, and the now-talked-about bologna s’more, followed by smoked pulled pork, potato salad, baked beans, and Texas toast. Dessert included cinnamon rolls and banana pudding.

Phyllis Sparks, Dave’s sister prepared 330 homemade sweet rolls in a variety of flavors.

It was a reflection of the heart behind the ministry—service, generosity, and care.

Next Step for Life is a Christ-centered, 18-month discipleship program designed to help individuals overcome addiction and other life-controlling issues.

Through structure, mentorship, and spiritual guidance, participants are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives with purpose.

The mission is clear. Not just recovery, but renewal.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening came through video testimonies from graduates and participants.

Stories of brokenness, redemption, restored families, and renewed purpose filled the room, offering a clear picture of the impact happening every day through the program.

Directors Elijah and Jennifer Willis took the stage, sharing their own personal stories of renewal and how Next Step has impacted their lives.

Jennifer Willis also took time to recognize the team behind the ministry.

Staff include:
 Director Elijah Willis
 Director Jennifer Willis
 Program Manager Jared Wilson
 Program Manager Sarah Wilson
 Jamie Bullard
 Alley Dueber
 Tim Grady
 Tenley Gray
 Jason Kirby
 Cody Sells

Board members include:
 William Birdwell
 Davy Roland
 Jessica Parrott
 Janet Holloway
 Sherri Stone
 Diane Roland
 Carley Darby
 Dave Roland

Jennifer Willis then welcomed Chef Chad Combs to the stage, recognizing his role in helping bring Dave Roland’s vision for Route 70 Diner to life.

Chef Combs thanked the team and shared his excitement for the project and confidence that the community will enjoy the new dining experience.

Dave Roland’s vision for the diner has been years in the making.

More than a restaurant, it represents opportunity—a place where individuals can gain skills, build confidence, and step into a new chapter of life.

The branding and identity of Route 70 Diner were also part of the evening’s story.

The logo and design were developed through the creativity of Davy Roland and Amy, helping bring the visual identity of the diner to life.

The evening blended powerful testimony with moments of joy.

Music was provided by Mike McMillan and Band, with backup singers Michaela Lewis, Roselyn Willis, and Pamela McMillan. Performances from the Do-Wop Girls and Greaser Boys added energy and brought the 1950s theme to life.

While the evening carried a strong sense of celebration, its purpose remained clear.

This annual banquet is a critical fundraiser that helps sustain the Next Step program and its ongoing impact across the Upper Cumberland.

Sponsors, volunteers, and community partners all played a role in making the evening possible.

It is a true community effort.

As the evening came to a close, one message stood out.

This is not just about what has been accomplished.

It is about what is coming next.

With the anticipated opening of Route 70 Diner and continued growth of Next Step for Life, the impact is only beginning.

Lives are being changed.
 Families are being restored.
 And the future is already taking shape.