The Chattanooga Branch of the NAACP is asking that the citizens of Chattanooga give recognition and support to the black businesses and black philanthropist that are supporting pillars to the local community. This is the 10th year since the United Nations began recognition of people of African descent who provide leadership that supports communities. For more than 100 years black philanthropic led organizations have provided support in the Chattanooga community. These organizations often go unnoticed as they are led by volunteers who work diligently and quietly each year to meet its goals.
These organizations provide college scholarships, food, community programming and multiple support services. The boards, committees, and members give countless hours in support of other activities sponsored by governments and private organizations in Chattanooga.
A few of the African descent organizations in Chattanooga are the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People, Unity Group, 100 Black Women, 100 Black Men, the Divine 9 (Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta, Phi Beta Sigma, Iota, Omega Psi Phi, Kappa Alpha Psi, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Phi Alpha), Links, Elks, Jack and Jill and many others.
August is also Black Business Month which is being recognized in Chattanooga. Black businesses have supported African descent philanthropic organizations for years, so it is fitting that these two groups share the same month of recognition. In Chattanooga there are more than 200 businesses that contribute to the annual economic health of the city. These businesses are in the areas of medicine, administration, food, retail, services, arts and other categories.
Reverend Ann Jones Pierre
President Chattanooga NAACP Branch