United Way of Greater Chattanooga celebrated its first year of Youth United, a leadership and volunteer program designed for local high school students.
Launched in fall 2024, Youth United welcomed 30 students from Brainerd High School, Hixson High School and Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts into its inaugural cohort. With support from TVA and local donors, the yearlong program focused on hands-on service, leadership development and building cross-school connections.
Over the course of the school year, students participated in four service projects benefitting local nonprofits, including The Bethlehem Center, SPLASH Youth Arts Workshop and Crabtree Farms. At each project, they gained real-world insight into the nonprofit’s mission while making a tangible difference in the community, said officials.
“Youth United gives students a real seat at the table, where they lead, serve, and learn together,” said Natalie Patric, director of Community Engagement at United Way of Greater Chattanooga. “We’ve seen these young leaders grow in confidence and commitment, and they’re just getting started.”
Youth United is more than just a volunteer program, it’s about empowering and inspiring the next generation of changemakers. In fact, youth who volunteer are three times more likely to continue volunteering as adults.
“I loved getting to know students from other schools and doing something meaningful together,” said Hannah, a Youth United participant. “It helped me feel more connected to the community.”
Highlights from the year include:
Kickoff at The Bethlehem Center: Students packed 100 snack and backpack kits while learning about integrity and community service.
Volunteering at Gratefull: Youth United students served food and formed new connections at Chattanooga’s community-wide Thanksgiving meal.
MLK Day at United Way: Students created 100 art kits and heard from United Way Board Chair Ken Jones about leading by example.
Closing Event at Crabtree Farms: Students spent a morning harvesting, planting, and reflecting on their year of growth and service.
Youth United will return for the 2025–2026 school year with plans to expand. If a school is interested in getting involved, reach out to volunteering@uwchatt.org.
For more information on Youth United, visit unitedwaycha.org/youth-united.