Specialized Interest Groups

Outdoor and Adventure Clubs

Chattanooga Hiking Club

The Chattanooga Hiking Club is a vibrant community organization dedicated to promoting outdoor exploration and appreciation of the natural beauty surrounding Chattanooga. Founded by a group of enthusiastic hikers, the club has grown to include members of all ages and abilities. It organizes regular hikes ranging from easy trails suitable for families to challenging excursions for more experienced hikers. The club is committed to advocating for environmental conservation, often participating in trail clean-up and maintenance projects across the region. Through these activities, the club fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among its members while contributing positively to local environmental efforts.

River City Bicycle Collective

The River City Bicycle Collective is a nonprofit organization that encourages cycling as a form of transportation, sport, and recreation. Emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility, the collective brings together bikers of all skill levels to share knowledge, resources, and a passion for cycling. Its flagship programs include free bike repair workshops, community rides, and bicycle safety education. The collective also donates refurbished bicycles to local residents in need, promoting cycling as a sustainable alternative to motor vehicle travel. By fostering a community around cycling, the River City Bicycle Collective plays a vital role in advocating for bicycle-friendly policies and infrastructure improvements in Chattanooga.

Support and Advocacy Networks

Chattanooga Autism Center

The Chattanooga Autism Center is a cornerstone of support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The center offers a comprehensive range of services, including therapy sessions, educational workshops, and support groups tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. With a strong emphasis on advocacy, the center actively works to raise awareness of autism-related issues and to promote the inclusion of autistic individuals in all aspects of community life. By partnering with local schools, healthcare providers, and businesses, the Chattanooga Autism Center helps to create a supportive and informed community environment for people with autism and their families.

The Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults

This multifaceted organization is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to build their own paths to self-sufficiency and growth. The Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults provides a wide array of services that address critical areas such as housing assistance, counseling, crisis intervention, and elder support. Its holistic approach ensures that clients receive integrated support tailored to their unique circumstances. As part of its advocacy work, the organization collaborates with local policymakers to address systemic issues and to improve social services across the region. The Partnership stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, committed to uplifting the most vulnerable members of the Chattanooga community.

Technology and Innovation Hubs

CO.LAB (The Company Lab)

CO.LAB serves as a dynamic incubator for startups and entrepreneurs in Chattanooga, offering resources and mentorship to help turn innovative ideas into successful ventures. Its programs include accelerator cohorts, business development workshops, and networking events that connect emerging entrepreneurs with industry leaders and potential investors. CO.LAB is particularly noted for its support of tech-based startups and its role in driving Chattanooga's reputation as a burgeoning hub for innovation. By fostering an ecosystem of collaboration and creativity, CO.LAB plays a crucial role in energizing the local economy and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders.

The Enterprise Center

The Enterprise Center is a key player in advancing Chattanooga's digital infrastructure and promoting technological literacy in the community. Its initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and to ensure that all residents can benefit from the city's high-speed internet capabilities. The center works closely with local government, private sector partners, and educational institutions to develop programs that expand access to technology and enhance digital skills. Whether through hosting tech boot camps or facilitating smart city projects, The Enterprise Center is instrumental in shaping a more connected, equitable, and innovative Chattanooga.