If you are connected to Manna, you know Jill Mynatt! Based in Cookeville, Tennessee, Jill wears many hats within the organization—she keeps all the moving parts running smooth. Whether working with donors, supporting staff, helping lead community initiatives, or managing behind‑the‑scenes logistics, her work helps sustain and grow the mission of Manna locally and internationally.

Rooted in Family and Faith

Jill grew up in Cookeville surrounded by the strong influence of family. She was especially close to her parents and sister, but her extended family also played a major role in shaping who she is today. Those relationships helped form her values and her sense of community.

Alongside family, church was a central part of Jill’s upbringing. Many of the people from her church community became like family—friends who showed up in everyday life and who helped nurture her walk with Jesus. Those steady influences continue to shape how she approaches life and ministry today.

A Calling That Began With a Trip

Jill’s journey into missions began during her college years. Through a university club, she had the opportunity to travel to the Dominican Republic over spring break. What started as a short mission trip quickly became something much deeper. After returning multiple times, Jill applied to intern with Manna DR’s Teams program during the summer of 2010.

That internship proved to be life‑changing and one of the best summers of her life.

During those months she developed deeper relationships with the missionaries and local community and experienced a clear sense of God’s leading. At the time, she was studying education, and discussions were beginning about launching what would become Manna Christian School.

After that summer, Jill felt compelled to return.

In January 2011 she moved to the Dominican Republic, where she served for four years as a math teacher and discipler at the school. Those years were filled with growth, meaningful relationships, and countless lessons about faith and life. During that time she also met her husband, Chad, and the two were married while living there.

Looking back, Jill never imagined she would become a missionary—but she clearly sees God’s hand guiding each step along the way.

Serving in Cookeville Today

Today Jill continues to serve with Manna in Cookeville through two key roles.

As Director of Development for Manna Global Missions, Jill leads fundraising efforts, supports new initiatives, and cares for donors and staff. In addition, she frequently steps into administrative, communication, and financial responsibilities that keep the organization running effectively. She really does it all!

Jill also serves as Director of El Puente, the Hispanic Community Center started through Manna in Cookeville. Through El Puente, she works closely with Spanish‑speaking neighbors while also connecting local partners, churches, and community organizations with resources that help families thrive.

At the heart of her work is a simple hope: that the people being served would know they are loved, valued, and deeply cared for by God. Jill also hopes the ministry itself remains a welcoming place where people feel comfortable coming exactly as they are.

A Vision for Community

Jill’s desire for the Cookeville community is simple but powerful: greater awareness and love for the people around us. She hopes more people recognize that we are all children of God and that caring for one another is at the heart of what it means to follow Christ.

One moment that deeply shaped this vision happened several years ago. Jill and Jordan Reese had been leading an English class while praying about how to serve the community more intentionally. After one class, a woman approached them and shared her story. She had moved to Cookeville during the pandemic while pregnant and caring for another small child. Feeling isolated and alone, she simply asked if they would be her friend.

That conversation became a turning point. It helped confirm the need for a deeper, more relational ministry—and ultimately became the catalyst for launching El Puente.

The Power of Stepping Outside Comfort

One of Jill’s favorite parts of ministry has always been hosting mission teams. Whether in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, or Cookeville, she loves watching people step outside their normal environments and experience a broader picture of God’s world.

For many visitors, stepping into a different culture or community opens their eyes in powerful ways. Those moments of growth and discovery often deepen faith and build lasting connections—both for the teams and the communities they serve.

Fun Facts

When it comes to Scripture, Jill is especially drawn to the Gospels and to the story of Exodus, which she sees as a powerful picture of God’s relentless love for His people. Two of her favorite moments from the life of Jesus both involve feet: Mary washing Jesus’ feet with her hair, and Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. Both scenes reveal the beauty of humility and the heart of a servant King.

Two passages anchor her faith. Romans 8:38–39 reminds her that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ. Lamentations 3:22–24 has taken on new meaning in her life as a mother, reminding her that God’s mercies are new every morning.

Outside of ministry, Jill enjoys reading and considers it one of her favorite hobbies. She loves fiction and frequently reads authors like Kristin Hannah, along with books in the young adult genre. One of her all‑time favorite books is Unbroken, a powerful story of endurance and survival. One of her most memorable recent reads was The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah.

She also enjoys a good challenge—like the year she set a goal to walk 10,000 steps every day. In 2025, she accomplished exactly that.

Jill is married to Chad who is also a key part of Manna Global Missions (you’ll meet him later if you don’t know him already!) and they have two adorable children.

With Gratitude

Manna Global Missions is deeply thankful for Jill Mynatt—her leadership, creativity, and tireless work behind the scenes. Her heart for people and her commitment to creating welcoming spaces continue to shape the ministry in Cookeville and beyond.

— Manna Global Missions Team