John Bell: Leading with Compassion at the Heart of Cookeville

John Bell has courageously carved a path of hope for the citizens of the Cookeville community. As a leader within the Cookeville Regional Charitable Foundation, Bell oversees more than eight programs, each designed to serve specific populations facing crisis and hardship across the Upper Cumberland.

Bell’s journey into nonprofit work began 18 years ago after graduating from Tennessee Tech University. “I fell in love with serving the community,” he shared. He spent a decade as a development director for a regional food bank in Knoxville that served 18 counties before ultimately returning home to Cookeville, where his impact would continue to grow.

Through his work, Bell has become a steady source of support for families navigating unthinkable circumstances. He grew emotional while recalling one particularly meaningful moment. “There was a young patient with terminal cancer,” Bell said. “The foundation paid for her sister to come to town and live out her last few months by her side. We also supplied them tickets to go see a movie. Those movie tickets meant the world to them.”

Bell’s compassion and commitment have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, he was named one of Cookeville Lifestyle’s Most Influential People, recognizing his profound impact on the community through service and leadership. Residents of Putnam County frequently echo that sentiment in public praise. “We are so blessed to have John in our community!” one Facebook comment read following his tornado relief efforts in early 2020. Another shared, “John is the best—so committed to his community!”

Creating programs that serve the greater good comes naturally to Bell, and he credits his approach to one simple principle. “I listen. I see the needs of the people, and as I’ve learned the struggles our community faces, I do what I can to help,” he explained.

Bell can often be found attending events hosted by the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Charitable Foundation, engaging directly with community members and staying closely connected to the needs around him.

When asked what advice he would offer to those looking to give back, Bell keeps it heartfelt and practical. “Send letters or cards to those who are sick in the hospital and alone,” he said. “Volunteer, and contribute financially if you can. Every dollar donated goes directly to those in need. That’s important to us.”

To learn more about the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Charitable Foundation or discover how you can make a positive impact, visit cookevilleregionalcharity.org.

— by Amber Summer, photos by Katelyn Steakley