The Chattery Announces Plans to Reclaim Its Space After Fire
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In The Know with Gino…
A year after a destructive classroom fire threatened to close the chapter on The Chattery, the organization is taking a significant step forward. They announced plans to purchase their former classroom facility located at 1800 Rossville Avenue, signaling a new chapter of stability and growth.
The fire last year caused extensive damage, destroying the contents and rendering the space unusable. However, thanks to unwavering community support, The Chattery managed to keep its doors open by hosting classes in various locations around downtown, including Common House, The Edney, and Society of Work. With assistance from River City Company, the organization was able to activate a temporary space that allowed them to continue serving the community.
“Our loss of the classroom space that we worked so hard to establish was heartbreaking,” said Jennifer Holder, co-founder of The Chattery. “But over the past year, we’ve reflected on what The Chattery means to us and our community. That reflection has inspired us to take this bold step — to purchase the space we’ve called home since 2019.”
The decision to buy the building opens up a host of new opportunities. The organization plans to double its current 2,500-square-foot footprint to 5,000 square feet, creating room for expanded programming and new community initiatives. Future plans include establishing a dedicated arts and crafts reuse thrift shop, flexible meeting and rental spaces, and a creative collaboration hub for local artists, entrepreneurs, and makers. Additionally, the new space will feature offices available for rent to like-minded nonprofits and creatives.
Marie King, board president of The Chattery and a local realtor, emphasized the importance of ownership. “We know that building wealth begins with real estate ownership,” she said. “Jennifer and Shawanda’s decision to purchase this space is a powerful move that will ensure The Chattery’s presence in Chattanooga for generations to come.”
To support this goal, The Chattery has launched the From Ashes to Action building fund campaign, aiming to raise $50,000 from community donors. Funds raised will go directly toward purchasing the building and securing a permanent home for the organization.
Donations can be made online at thechattery.org/buildingfund, or mailed to their office at 1800 Rossville Ave., Suite 108B, Chattanooga, TN 37408. The organization is also offering naming rights opportunities for businesses interested in making a creative community impact.
For updates on the campaign and the organization’s progress, follow The Chattery on Facebook and Instagram. With community support, The Chattery is poised to continue inspiring and empowering Chattanooga’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit for years to come.
SOURCE: Chattanooga Pulse
