BrightBridge Capital has partnered with Pinnacle Bank to assist Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga in obtaining a loan that will go towards renovating and remodeling their building.
"BBBS has been located on Bailey Avenue for over 50 years, and updates are much needed," officials said. "Funds from the loan obtained through BrightBridge will go towards renovating and remodeling the existing building structure, as well as adding on 900 square-feet of space.
"Once the renovations and remodel are complete, the building will be titled the 'Warner Mentoring Hub,' and the space will be used both as the BBBS office, as well as a safe space for Bigs, Littles and their families to convene for match support, activities, trainings, academic support and college preparation."
The Warner Mentoring Hub will include:
• A Learning Lab: a work room with computers for Littles/Families; this will be added space in the BBBS work room so that Littles/Families can access computers/internet when additional assistance is needed with applications/trainings/college applications/etc.;
• A training room for Bigs, Littles and Families that will facilitate the growing number of sessions Bigs and Parents/Guardians need to be equipped to support Littles;
• Additional private meeting space to ensure confidentiality for BBBS work that includes sensitive information;
• An expanded reception area for waiting families and volunteers to maintain a positive quality experience;
• An expanded break room to accommodate the growing number of staff for lunch and team building activities;
• Office space for 24 team members to accommodate BBBS’s growth; and
• Outdoor playground space for introductions between Littles and Bigs and small activities.
“BrightBridge has been great,” said BBBS CEO Jessica Whatley. “We were connected to them through Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, and it was a pleasure to work with their team. We received a construction loan and they made the process simple and affordable for a nonprofit. They were very communicative about the process and helped us navigate the construction loan experience with ease.”
“It is great to partner with banks like Pinnacle who invest in our efforts so we can assist area nonprofits like BBBS when they are in need. It’s a strong relationship and we’re grateful for the support,” said Bill Pollard, of BrightBridge. “BBBS does amazing work for the youth in our community, and these funds will assist them in creating a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for their Bigs, Littles and families.”
The project, with assistance from architecture firm Artech and contractor New Blue Construction, began in May and work is set to be complete in January 2023.