Family Promise of Greater Chattanooga announces Jackie Clay joined the organization as executive director.
"Ms. Clay brings more than 15 years of experience to Family Promise, a track record of proven success leading strategic planning and development for nonprofits and experience in healthcare and government entities," officials said.
"Jackie brings a unique collection of skills that are closely aligned to Family Promise and our goals for the families we serve,” said Aggie Stephenson, board chair and leader of the search committee. “She joins the group with a remarkable understanding of leading an organization serving a vulnerable population. She has vital experience in developing deep partnerships with local governments and community agencies. We’re dedicated to helping families transition to permanent housing, and Jackie shares our passion for creating this reality for our community.”
Prior to joining Family Promise, Ms. Clay served as the executive director of the Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge. "In this position, she successfully increased the clinic’s grant funds, exceeded fundraising goals and led a brand transition," officials said.
Her other experience includes work as a field instructor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and working as a project manager for the City of Knoxville, Office of the Mayor, from 2011 to 2016.
"Family Promise of Greater Chattanooga has been serving families since 1998 and is a pillar in our community. It is an honor to work with an organization that has such a long history of making a difference,” Ms. Clay said. “I’m grateful to the board of trustees and staff of Family Promise for inviting me to become part of this wonderful team that works tirelessly to help families in need. I look forward to serving in this role.”
Ms. Clay holds a master of science and a bachelor of science in social work. Both are from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She has often been recognized for excellence and her dedication to the community. In 2015 she was named to the 40 Under 40 by the Greater Knoxville Business Journal. In 2014 she was recognized as a Health Care Hero by the Tennessee Health Care Campaign, and in 2005 she received the Change Agent Award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
“Because of the rapidly changing situation caused by COVID-19, our work and the needs of the families we serve are rapidly changing,” Ms. Stephenson said. “We are thankful to have Jackie’s strategic leadership during this time of crisis to help families avoid homelessness and, when needed, work toward helping families find employment and long-term housing.”