Chambliss Center for Children, a cornerstone of care for children and families in Chattanooga for over 150 years, is launching a $6.5 million campaign to revitalize its facilities and ensure its life-changing programs continue to thrive. The campaign is designed to address critical updates to aging facilities, enabling the organization to continue providing top-tier childcare, early childhood education, foster care, transitional living for teens and temporary housing for children entering the foster care system.
"We want every child to have a safe, nurturing environment in which they can learn, grow and reach their full potential. This campaign will help us do just that," said Katie Harbison, president/CEO of Chambliss Center for Children.
"Additionally, we want to provide welcoming spaces for our amazing staff members, and many of the projects will allow them to do their jobs more effectively. The Building Futures Campaign will help ensure that our facilities reflect the value we place in both our staff and every child who walks through our doors."
Officials said, "Chambliss Center for Children’s current buildings on its main campus in Brainerd, dating back to 1939, have been adapted over the years to meet the evolving needs of the children and families served by the organization.
However, after decades of resourceful use, these buildings are showing their age. While the programs remain exceptional, outdated, and inefficient facilities are hindering the full potential of the services Chambliss provides. This campaign will focus on critical repairs, upgrades and renovations to ensure that the physical environment aligns with the organization’s mission of providing a safe, supportive space for children to thrive."
“With 134,000 square feet between all our facilities, we have much to maintain. We are excited about the Building Futures Campaign to raise the necessary funds to continue our mission in bright, upgraded, and efficient facilities to the community. Our children deserve nothing less,” said Alexis Probasco, chairman for the Building Futures Campaign. “We hope you will consider joining our efforts by making a special gift towards this very worthwhile cause.”
Officials said, "Chambliss Center for Children invites the community to join in supporting this transformative effort. Every donation—no matter the size—will help create better, more functional spaces for children and youth to grow, learn and build the skills they need for a successful future. From fixing a leaky roof to renovating a transitional living unit or updating a classroom, each contribution is a building block in creating a better, more supportive environment for Chattanooga’s children."
To learn more about the campaign or to donate, visit ChamblissCenter.org/CapitalCampaign, or contact Emily Barrow at 423-468-1139 or esbarrow@chamblisscenter.org.