KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- The Volunteer Ministry Center invites Knoxville to help 'Carry the Torch' during their annual luncheon.

More than a thousand people attended the event that helps raise money for the nonprofit that helps the area's homeless population.

The VMC aims to help give people a hand up, working with them to achieve and maintain housing.

"We hear so many statistics and numbers about the people on the streets, and the children of homeless. But by putting a human being up there who's been through it themselves, I think it really adds a different dimension," said author Jeanette Walls.

Walls talked about growing up homeless, which she describes in her best-selling book The Glass Castle. Her story of overcoming extraordinary odds is a thread the VMC wants to tap into.

"We have gotten more and more people off the streets and into housing. We know what helps them remain there so that they are successful. But there is more to do," said Ginny Weatherstone, CEO of the center.

What does the picture of homeless look like in Knox County? Wednesday the Knoxville Knox County Homeless Coalition will release a study about the recent challenges and successes.

The findings will be presented on Market Square at 2 p.m.

For more information on the VMC's campaign, you can click on the link below.