The environmental nonprofit green|spaces announced the launch of its membership campaign.  

Senator Andy Berke was the guest speaker at green|spaces corporate membership luncheon. He spoke about the past efforts that have made Chattanooga a leader in sustainable practices, and the importance of protecting our natural resources because they are essential to Chattanooga’s sense of place and attractiveness. green|spaces’ board President John Straussberger, Membership Chair Ben Harper, and Executive Director Anj McClain also spoke at the launch about the  organization’s previous works as well as the continued necessity and benefit of green|spaces  presence in our community.

The membership luncheon was the first of many fundraising events planned this year since the organization has transitioned from a grant funded initiative to a 501(c)(3) not for profit entity.  There will be another membership drive during the Green Drinks event on June 27 for individuals to pledge their support.    

“green|spaces is excited about the launch of our membership program and the wonderful response  we are receiving from the community,” said new Director of Development Tina Shaw Cox. “We feel fortunate to have support from these amazing companies and organizations at this stage. We look forward to providing premier educational opportunities, advocacy and technical training assistance to our members.”

These members include:

Founding - Alstom, Cornerstone Automation, The Strauss Company, Franklin Architecture

Corporate - Grace Frank Group, Haskel Sears Design, TU Parks

Nonprofit and Associations - Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga Area, Homebuilders Association of Greater Chattanooga, City of Chattanooga Water Quality Program

Rick Botto, president of Founding Member Cornerstone Automation said, “We are excited and proud to be working with our friends and partners in the community and through the leadership of green|spaces to make Chattanooga a better place to live and work.”

Corporate Member Matt Sears (Haskel Sears Design) said, “I didn’t hesitate to support green|spaces when they approached me because in the early stages of my career they appreciated my aesthetics and recognized me as a craftsman who paid attention to environmental practices. They really helped me grow my business. Becoming a corporate member is a business decision I’ve never questioned as being a good one.”