Nominations for Leadership Chattanooga’s class of 2023-24 are open.
“Our Leadership Chattanooga graduates tell us our program propelled them to a deeper understanding of how our community works and how they can give back with intention and purpose,” says Toya Moore, leadership development director and the Chattanooga Chamber Foundation. “Graduates also talk about the long-term bonds they forge, many of which are with people they might not have otherwise encountered.”
Leadership Chattanooga explores a new sector of the Chattanooga community in each monthly session, including education, job readiness, government structure and creating inclusive economies.
Participants also receive additional leadership development through peer coaching, community service projects and networking opportunities, including meeting with state leaders.
As many as 45 people take part in Leadership Chattanooga each year. The Leadership Chattanooga selection committee chooses the participants after conducting a competitive application process and review.
Committee members evaluate candidates based on:
• Commitment to serving the local community
• Dedication to civic engagement through volunteer activities
• Interest in public service through seeking elected office, volunteering for a nonprofit board or other leadership roles
• Recognized potential for career advancement to top leadership positions
• Representation of diverse economic sectors, professions, viewpoints, ages, cultural perspectives and ethnic backgrounds
Nominate a candidate at chattanoogachamber.com/leadership-nominate_apply. Nominations end March 20.
All sessions, including orientation and retreat, are being planned for in-person engagement.
United Way expanding its 211 support line
United Way of Greater Chattanooga is expanding 211, a free and confidential help line that supports unhoused individuals and families who are searching for permanent housing. Community members in need of housing can now place one call to 211 to start the coordinated entry program.
This program is a partnership between the Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition and supporting agencies and ensures community members receive comprehensive support.
“Our team coordinates food, utilities, employment, education, health services and more,” says Jessica Pilcher, director of strategic partnerships at the United Way. “This expansion will streamline the process for our unhoused neighbors, making it easier to access the critical services our community partners offer.”
The local 211 team responded to more than 57,000 needs last year. The housing extension can serve the 20,000 neighbors who were previously receiving services through the Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition.
“This is a critical need we’re continuing to solve in our community,” says Mike Smith, executive director of the coalition. “Providing simple and easy access to the resources our unhoused neighbors need is not easy. Starting with 211 is a great first step.”
Austin Hatcher chosen as Moth Ball beneficiary
Each year, CityScope’s Moth Ball benefits a different Hamilton County nonprofit that supports women in need. This year, the ball will benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer.
Founded in 2012 by Terri Holley and Alison Lebovitz, the ball has raised over $365,000 to support nonprofit organizations in the Chattanooga area.
The proceeds of the event will go toward helping the foundation erase the negative impact of pediatric cancer on families. Families of the foundation are provided with mental and behavioral health therapy, occupational therapy, neuropsychological testing, family programs and more at no cost to them.
The event will take place at The New Signal (21 Choo Choo Avenue) from 7-9 p.m. Tickets area available for purchase at themothball.org.