RISE Chattanooga
At RISE Chattanooga, our mission has always been to empower and uplift communities through the arts, culture, and social engagement. As we look toward the future, we are proud to announce The Next Chapter in our journey—a bold initiative that deepens our commitment to fostering equity, creativity, and community pride in Chattanooga.
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In partnership with local stakeholders and community leaders, we are excited to expand our footprint through neighborhood investments in the East Chattanooga area, specifically within the Glass Street corridor. This strategic acquisition of properties represents a transformative step toward establishing sustainable, creative, and inclusive spaces that reflect the vibrant spirit of this historic neighborhood.
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We recognize the legacy of disinvestment in marginalized neighborhoods and the barriers it has created for equitable growth and opportunity. By establishing a positive presence within the community, RISE Chattanooga seeks to play a critical role in changing these dynamics. Our aim is to serve as a catalyst for inclusive development—one that prioritizes the needs, voices, and dreams of the community while reversing patterns of neglect and inequity.
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Our vision aligns with our belief in community-driven development—one that preserves cultural heritage while fostering innovation and economic opportunities for residents. Through these new spaces, RISE aims to:
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Support creative entrepreneurs with affordable workspace, resources, and mentorship opportunities.
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Enhance community engagement through dynamic arts programming, workshops, and events that celebrate the diverse voices and talents of East Chattanooga.
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Revitalize underutilized spaces into hubs for innovation, learning, and cultural expression that empower the local community.
By planting roots in East Chattanooga, RISE Chattanooga reaffirms its dedication to creating opportunities where they are most needed. Together with our neighbors, we will transform this area into a beacon of creativity, collaboration, and possibility.
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This is not just an investment in properties; it is an investment in people, heritage, and a shared future. The Next Chapter is about building a legacy of equity and opportunity—where arts and culture serve as catalysts for positive change and where historically underserved communities can thrive.
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
In late December 2020, RISE acquired a former church property -- 2 main facilities with gross area of over 14,000 square feet along with three parcels of land) located in the historic Glass Farms District in East Chattanooga.
The immediate neighborhood reflects a mixed-use area with spots of commercial, retail, light industrial, single and multi-family housing surrounding the property.
Once known as one of the religious staples in the community, the now abandoned building mirrors the unemployment, divestment, and devaluation of the entire neighborhood. RISE recognized that where others saw no potential, we envisioned this new site as an opportunity to explore how art & culture can be a positive engine for social and community transformation in underserved and majority minority neighborhoods.
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Thus begins our next chapter of creating a welcoming space, a platform for art and small business incubation, cultural exploration, positive development, and neighborhood transformation.​​
GLASS STREET CORRIDOR
In late 2024, RISE Chattanooga made a transformative investment in the historically underserved Glass Street Corridor by acquiring three storefront properties. This strategic acquisition represents a bold step toward revitalizing this vital community space and fostering economic and creative growth in one of Chattanooga's most culturally rich but under-resourced neighborhoods.
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The vision for these storefronts goes beyond traditional redevelopment. By creating accessible spaces for local entrepreneurs, artists, and community organizations, RISE aims to cultivate a vibrant hub of innovation and collaboration that directly benefits the Glass Street community. These properties will serve as an incubator for small businesses, a showcase for local artistry, and a gathering place for community dialogue and engagement.
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RISE’s investment also reflects a commitment to equitable urban development. The organization prioritizes preserving the neighborhood’s character and history while addressing systemic inequities that have historically limited opportunities in Glass Street. This approach ensures that the revitalization efforts align with the needs and aspirations of longtime residents and stakeholders.