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Based on the teaching of scripture, our core values are the foundation on which this family stands. They are truths we live by every day so that we may live more like Jesus.

  • Freedom over Fear – Galatians 5
  • Honor over Envy – 1 Peter 2:16-17
  • Oneness over Sameness – 1 Corinthians 12
  • Abiding over Striving  – John 15
  • God over Everything – Mark 12
Mission

We exist to love God, receive His freedom, and give it away.

Vision

We help people exchange their chains for a life of freedom.

Where it all started

The 501 Exchange began as an events-based nonprofit company in 2016 under the name FRVR INC. Co-founders Paul Taylor Smith and Adam Kersh began forming a team to solve a massive problem in the Gwinnett County area where 90% of middle and high school students are unchurched. The nonprofit raised thousands of dollars to create events throughout the Atlanta area where thousands of students would come to know the freedom of Jesus. In 2019, the nonprofit took a year-long sabbatical from creating events in order to rest, refocus, and gain clarity for the future. Our goal was to dive deeply into God’s intentions for this nonprofit instead of simply relying on our own plans. As we prayed and sought the Lord, we were reminded that at the core of who we are is a family — an eclectic and diverse, constantly-growing family that lives by the same value system. In 2020 we decided to change the name of the nonprofit to The 501 Exchange and begin the process of purchasing a building in Athens, GA. The number “501” comes from Paul’s writings in Galatians 5:1 where he writes, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” We exist to love God, receive His freedom, and give it away — so we plan to use 1051 Baxter to accommodate our growing gatherings, provide a space for discipleship, and foster the culture and content we are creating to help people live in the freedom of Jesus. Free people free people, and our goal is to see the people of Athens (and beyond) understand and receive their God-given freedom.

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