In a move that marks an evolution in its mission and scope, the Chattanooga Faith + Work + Culture has rebranded as Faith Co-Op. This new name captures the organization's expanded vision and commitment to equipping Christians to seamlessly integrate their faith and work for the flourishing of Chattanooga and the advancement of God’s Kingdom, said officials.
Faith Co-Op is a faith-based organization "devoted to empowering marketplace leaders to be stewards of their work, for the good of Chattanooga and the glory of God’s Kingdom. Through fellowships, courses, and events, Faith Co-Op will help leaders explore the rich intersection of faith, work and culture."
The driving force behind Faith Co-Op is its visionary Executive Director Jonathan Ingraham, whose dedication to connecting faith and vocation is fueled by over a decade of experience in experiential education. “We are so excited to refresh and refocus our branding with Faith Co-Op so that we can help awaken Christians in Chattanooga to how their faith brings daily purpose,” said Mr. Ingraham.
The organization is set to open a new physical location (1805 Bailey Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404) in the Highland Park neighborhood, sharing a building with the nonprofit Homes + Havens. This new space will offer classrooms and meeting areas for the organization to host its numerous programs and events.
Additionally, Faith Co-Op recently welcomed two new hires who bring fresh energy and perspectives to the organization: Ralston Hartness as the Chattanooga Fellows Program director and Melissa Pipkin as the Events and Programs coordinator. Ralston, a Chattanooga native, has a background in teaching and is pursuing a master's degree in theology from Gordon Conwell Seminary. And with a background in marketing and a passion for adventure, Ms. Pipkin adds her expertise in events and digital marketing to the Faith Co-Op team.
“The transition to Faith Co-Op reflects the organization’s deepened commitment to nurturing spiritual growth, cultivating vocational excellence, and fostering a community of faith-driven professionals who bring positive transformation to Chattanooga,” said Board Chair Chris Gregory.
Faith Co-Op will focus its work through six strategic programs:
Chattanooga Fellows: A nine-month leadership program designed to equip recent college graduates to authentically live out their faith in every aspect of life.
Main & Market Fellows: An intensive nine-month program tailored for established professionals, enabling them to live out the gospel in the marketplace.
Faith & Work 101: A six-session course for churches and small groups that provides a theological foundation for God’s design and purpose in work.
Lunch & Learn: A regular lunchtime series featuring industry experts who are integrating their faith and work in thoughtful, compelling and creative ways.
Faith Driven Entrepreneur and Investor: A quarterly gathering for entrepreneurs and investors who want to learn from one another and fulfill their God-given call to create and steward.
Faith & Work Blog: An online hub delivering practical, gospel-centered resources on the intersection of faith, work and culture.
For further information, please visit faithcoop.org or contact the team at info@faithcoop.org.