State Rep. JoAnne Favors is announcing the formation of a new non-profit, membership organization, Tennessee Intergenerational Political Network, Inc. This organization is unique in that the Board of Directors includes members drawn from four generations – from creative, energetic millennials to wisdom saturated retirees, said Ms. Favors. Members include an intergenerational network of elected officials, students, parents, educators, clergy, health, social, and public service professionals, business owners, attorneys, technical and service workers.
The name TIPNET was selected in 2010 and the organization has evolved after four years of reviewing data obtained in national, state, and local research and investigative reports, U.S. Census reports, innumerable hours of individual and community interactions, and peer-reviewed publications. The data confirmed the levels of social, economic, health, civic, and educational disparities resonating among certain populations in Chattanooga- Hamilton County.
Although TIPNET acknowledges laudable efforts being implemented by various entities to address some of these disparities, the role of politics as a determinant has remained in the background for too long. The purpose of TIPNET is to promote optimal civic engagement, especially among vulnerable groups. This will be accomplished by providing political education and increasing opportunities for participation in the political process.
Regularly scheduled forums, conferences, webinars, and training sessions will be conducted in collaboration with professional associations, civic organizations, eminent, professional consultants, institutions of higher learning and representatives from all levels and branches of government.
Please contact TIPNET at joannefavors@comcast.net for more information.