Dressed as Krishna, Alisha Chandra watches dancers perform as the India Association of Chattanooga holds a cultural program at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Brainerd.Several organizations have been established to serve Chattanooga’s increasingly diverse community. This is a guide to some of the city’s cultural centers and ethnic associations.
* Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 423-266-8658, www.bessie smithcc.org. The interdisciplinary center promotes cultural, educational and artistic excellence and fosters research and education on African and black heritage. It also is a venue for entertainment.
* Bridge Refugee & Sponsorship Services of Chattanooga, 423-954-1911 or 423-954-9288, http://home.chattanooga.net/~bridge/refugeesasylees.html. A resettlement agency that helps refugees secure housing and jobs.
* Chattanooga Community Business Professionals, www.chattcpb.com. This network of black business owners or aspiring business owners was organized to share information and promote business development. The group meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at Mocha Restaurant & Music Lounge.
* Chattanooga Islamic Center, 423-756-4917. Aids Muslims in meeting their religious, educational, social and cultural needs.