2026 Grantees

Located in the historic MLK area of downtown Chattanooga, Citadel of Faith serves as a vibrant hub of empowerment and spiritual growth. Known as “The Safe Place,” the ministry is dedicated to fostering a community where individuals can find both refuge and purpose. Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Corey Prather, the church focuses on equipping the current generation with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges. By bridging the gap between spiritual development and practical, day-to-day life skills, Citadel of Faith encourages its members to thrive in their own skin while living to the glory of God. Whether through its deep roots in the local music scene or its commitment to educational excellence, the ministry is a steadfast presence for good in the heart of the city.

Support is requested for Citadel of Faith’s inaugural summer youth program, launching in 2026. This initiative is designed to reach over 80 children in the MLK community, providing them with a safe and enriching environment during the summer months. The program includes academic tutoring led by professional educators within the congregation, as well as specialized music training to develop the technical skills of aspiring young artists. Furthermore, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on cultural heritage, teaching youth about the local impact of legendary figures such as Bessie Smith and Mahalia Jackson, ensuring they remain connected to the rich history of the space they call home.

As one of the oldest and most historic African American churches in the region, Mt. Peria Missionary Baptist Church carries a legacy of resilience and deep-rooted faith. The church views youth ministry not just as a program, but as a vital responsibility to protect and nurture the next generation. Under the leadership of Youth Director Jacquelyn Allgood-White, the ministry focuses on providing children with positive exposure to Christ-centered environments, believing that consistent spiritual nourishment is the key to preventing youth from straying and helping them blossom into their God-given purposes.

Support is requested for the “Cultivate the Seed” 2026 Summer Youth Initiative. This comprehensive program features a week-long summer camp and outdoor exploration activities designed to help youth learn about God’s creation. The initiative concludes with a “Youth Explosion” event aimed at sending students back to school spiritually charged and prepared to share the goodness of God with their peers.

The Orchard Knob Housing Development Corp. (OKHDC) serves as the dedicated nonprofit wing of Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church. By blending a faith-based mission with tangible community development, OKHDC addresses the essential need for affordable housing while fostering spiritual and cultural growth. Under the leadership of Dr. Rodney Morton, the organization operates on the principle that youth are the “greatest stakeholders” in the community. Their work aims to bridge the generational gap, empowering believers and providing a safe, nurturing environment where the residents of Chattanooga can thrive.

The ministry is seeking support for the “Magnified Summer Camp,” a program serving young people ages 8 to 15. The camp provides a nurturing environment where students engage in STEM activities and academic learning to prevent summer learning loss, while also introducing them to new ideas and community leaders through field trips and local presentations.

Founded in 2013 as a response to a divine calling, PEAK (Placing Emphasis Around Kids) serves as a critical “gap filler” for children and families across the community. Recognizing that many youth face a lack of resources or guidance, PEAK provides a holistic support system for kids from all walks of life. Their mission is to build “great, responsible, and right-standing human beings” by addressing the needs of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. From family bonding events like mother-daughter and father-son gatherings to year-round mentorship, PEAK is committed to pouring into the future of our community.

Funding will support the annual Basketball Enrichment Camp, which provides a safe space for youth to learn both athletic and essential life skills. In addition to basketball training, the camp incorporates yoga for focus and flexibility, guest speakers for character building, and provides participants with meals and apparel, allowing older youth the opportunity to return and “pay it forward” to the next generation.

Sanctum for Health serves as a vital bridge between physical wellness and spiritual vitality. Operating as an extension of Scenic City Health and Wellness, this ministry is dedicated to moving beyond simple clinical care to provide thorough, community-based education. Sanctum for Health strives to empower individuals with a deep understanding of their personal healthcare needs while simultaneously grounding them in a solid spiritual foundation. By teaching the community not only how to maintain their bodies but also who they are in Christ, the ministry seeks to foster long-term health and maturity across the mental, physical, and spiritual realms.

Support is requested for a specialized summer program providing sports physicals for local youth. These exams, which often cost between $50 and $100, are a significant barrier for many families. By offering these physicals in June, the ministry ensures that students are cleared to participate in basketball, football, and other school sports for the entire year. The program also integrates mental health education and spiritual mentorship, culminating in a community-wide celebration at the Avondale Center to encourage students just before the school year begins.

Nestled in the heart of the Alton Park community, St. Elmo Missionary Baptist Church operates as a spiritual lighthouse with a primary focus on Jesus Christ’s Great Commission. Led by Pastor Billy Church, the ministry is dedicated to “going into the world” to make disciples of all nations. Their approach is rooted in the transformative power of the Gospel, seeking to meet neighbors where they are and cultivate a community of believers who are equipped to share God’s goodness through both word and deed.

The church is requesting support for their STEAM-integrated Vacation Bible School program. Centered on the theme “The Wonder of God,” the program utilizes the life of Harriet Tubman to help children better understand how God works through individuals, combining science, technology, and faith to help youth communicate the Gospel more effectively.