City of Potential: How You Powered Our Success

This past Thursday, the energy at our City of Potential Breakfast was undeniable, kicked off by the powerful beat of the Tyner High School Drumline and a moving performance from the CCA Men’s Ensemble. They were a living, breathing reminder of the incredible potential we were all there to champion.

Because of you, we did more than just talk about it. We took action.

We are thrilled to announce that thanks to the incredible generosity in that room, we exceeded our $65,000 fundraising goal! This success is a direct investment in the futures of Chattanooga’s youth, and it belongs to every one of you.

A huge part of the morning was celebrating the champions already in the ring. Please join us in a massive round of applause for this year’s honorees:

• Lawanda Hayes, Excellence in Mentoring Award
• Allen Green, Chris Ramsey Mentoring Legacy Award
• Pinnacle Financial Partners, Corporate Defender of Potential Award
• Kathy Martin & Phylicia Spikes, Big Sister & Little Sister of the Year
• Patrick Amos & Nicholas Raspberry, Big Brother & Little Brother of the Year
• Blake and Andrea Ramsey & Tyson Favors, Big Couples Match of the Year
• And the recipient of our inaugural Chip Allen Award for Extraordinary Service, Chip Allen!

This work is about building a future and protecting the present. A mentor can be the spark that helps a young person discover their career path or the steady hand a family reaches for in a crisis. In both triumph and tragedy, having a champion in your corner is what makes the difference.

For 68 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga has worked to put a champion in every child's corner. Our mission field isn't just one city; it spans the entire region. We serve young people in 27 Hamilton County schools and throughout communities in Marion, Bradley, Walker, Catoosa, and Dade counties.

But the breakfast was just the moment we stepped into the ring; the championship fight for these kids happens every day. Across all these communities, the urgent reality is that 135 children are still on our waitlist. They are waiting for their champion.

If you left feeling inspired, here is how you can answer the call:

• Become a Big: The single greatest need we have is for more mentors. Your time is the most valuable gift you can give.
• Become a Monthly Donor: Consistent support provides the stable foundation we need to serve kids all year long.

Thank you for making the City of Potential Breakfast a powerful display of what's possible when we stand together. Now, let's carry that energy forward and ensure no child in our community ever has to fight alone.

‍