Over the past few years, Chattanooga nonprofits have had to get creative with how they raise money - trading ballroom soirees for virtual get-togethers, and community walks for online auctions.
But now, as COVID vaccination rates rise and infections decrease, we are finally starting to see the return of in-person events. And that benefits more than just nonprofits.
Social activities have been shown to increase feelings of happiness and connectedness, therefore reducing one's chances of depression and even certain diseases - just like philanthropy. So why not combine the two?
Here, you'll find a year's worth of events that not only offer good old-fashioned camaraderie but ways to give back to our community, too.
AUGUST
- Annual Raffle Fundraiser
August 7
Enter to win some amazing gifts, including a $250 Ruth's Chris gift card, while helping support Pet Placement Center, Chattanooga's oldest no-kill animal shelter. A fun tradition since the 1980s, the drawing will take place at the shelter and will also be live-streamed on Facebook.
Cost: $1 per raffle ticket
Contact: petplacement@thalppc.com
- Bingo for the Grove
August 13
An elegant evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing and bingo, this event helps support Orange Grove Center and its work to provide hope and possibilities for families who have loved ones with an intellectual or developmental disability.
Cost: $150
Contact: bingo@orangegrove.org
- Run4Kids
August 13
This timed 5k run and 1-mile walk bring together family, friends and volunteers, helping celebrate those that have been supported by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga. In addition to the race, there will be games, prizes, food trucks, mascots and more.
Cost: $25 for 5k, $15 for 1-mile walk
Contact: mary.pike@rmhchattanooga.com, rmhchattanooga.com
Staff file photo / People gather at the Chattanoogan Hotel for the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga's Entrepreneur Power Luncheon, which returns in 2022 on Aug. 17.- Entrepreneur Power Luncheon
August 17
Hundreds of community leaders, business investors, aspiring entrepreneurs and other diverse enterprises will gather for this annual fundraiser, presenting a powerful keynote message by an accomplished entrepreneur. The annual luncheon helps support the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga, and the work of its Center for Economic and African-American Business success.
Cost: $75
Contact: eacheson@ulchatt.net, ulchatt.net
- Chattanooga Margarita Festival
August 18
Chattanooga's favorite restaurants compete for the title of "best margarita" in town - voted on by event attendees. The gathering features live entertainment by local DJs, food vendors, a photo booth and more. Proceeds help support the Chattanooga Market.
Cost: $39
Contact: chattanoogafestivals.com/chattmarg
- StarNight
August 20
Siskin Children's Institute's highly anticipated star-studded night returns for its 59th gala, complete with a cocktail reception, elegant dinner, concert performance by Grammy Award nominee Jimmie Allen and an after-party with more music and dancing.
Cost: $300
Contact: siskin.org/starnight
- Big Hair Affair
August 27
The Chattanooga Kidney Foundation hosts a "totally rad" night out celebrating the organization's 1989 founding. Dress in your favorite throwback outfit from the 1980s or 90s, and enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres, drinks, trivia, a costume contest, a silent auction and more.
Cost: $60
Contact: kidneyfoundation.com
- Friends of Scouting Luncheon
August 30
The largest and most important annual fundraiser for Cherokee Area Council Boy Scouts of America, this annual luncheon is anchored by a keynote speaker and celebrates the accomplishments and impacts of scouting on the local community.
Cost: TBA
Contact: becky.mulkey@scouting.org, cherokeeareabsa.com/
SEPTEMBER
- A Day of Remembrance
September 1
Scenic City Women's Network hosts a 9/11 remembrance at the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, featuring keynote speaker General Scott Brower, commander of the 5th Special Forces Group in 2001 and leader of the 12 Horsemen in Afghanistan after the attack.
Cost: Free (seating is limited to the first 100 registrants)
Contact: renee@scwn.org, scwn.org
- Labor of Love Run
September 5
Featuring a 5k and fun run for all ages and abilities, Downside Up's family event is designed to help build community for families with children with disabilities. In addition to races, there will be music, awards and more.
Cost: $15-$55
Contact: downsideupinc@gmail.com, downsideupinc.org
- Party at Point Park
September 8
Take a stroll around Point Park while enjoying beverages, bites, music and outdoor ambiance, while helping support the National Park Partners' efforts to preserve and enhance Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.
Cost: TBD
Contact: partyatpointpark.com/
- City of Potential Awards Breakfast
September 14
Over breakfast, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga honors individuals and organizations making a difference in the community through mentorship.
Cost: $100
Contact: cityofpotential.com
- Kidney Kup Golf Tournament
September 16
Join the Kidney Foundation of Chattanooga for the fifth annual golf tournament at Bear Trace in Harrison Bay. Lunch, dinner, drinks, snacks and giveaways are all included.
Cost: $125 per person, $500 per foursome
Contact: kidneyfoundation.com/kidney-kup
- Golf for Good
September 16
Tee off for a good cause during this collaborative tournament held at Brown Acres and benefiting Volunteers in Medicine, Chattanooga primary care and Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society's Project Access.
Cost: $150 per person, $500 per foursome
Contact: kevin@chattmd.org, biddingforgood.com/auction/auctionhome.action?documentId=34170191
- 100th Birthday Block Party
September 17
United Way of Greater Chattanooga celebrates its centennial with a downtown block party, open to all.
Cost: Free
Contact: terrananderson@uwchatt.org, 100days100ways.org
- Cleveland Circuit Ride
September 17
Gear up and cycle either the 25-, 50- or 100-kilometer course through beautiful Bradley County. More than a bike ride, these courses benefit Family Promise of Bradley County, focused on the needs of homeless families.
Cost: $40
Contact: directorfpbc@gmail.com, circuitride.org/
- CAC Golf Tournament
September 22 (Rain date: September 29)
Featuring a 9-hole tournament in the morning and an 18-hole tournament in the afternoon, the Chattanooga Autism Center invites golfers to compete at Creek's Bend Golf Course. Drinks, lunch and snacks are provided.
Cost: $75 per person (9-hole), $125 per person (18-hole)
Contact: dave@chattanoogaautismcenter.org, chattanoogaautismcenter.org/golf
- Torchlight Gala
September 23
Chattanooga Audubon Society's fourth annual dressy-casual affair will be hosted at the Hunter Museum of American Art and feature hors d'oeuvres, desserts, drinks and live music.
Cost: TBA
Contact: chattanoogaaudubon.org/torchlight.html
- Trident Cornhole Tournament
September 24
Trident Transport hosts its fifth annual tournament, helping raise funds for the Child Life Program at the Children's Hospital at Erlanger. The day is family-friendly and includes live entertainment throughout the afternoon and early evening.
Cost: $100 per team
Contact: katelyn.clark@tridenttransport.com, tridenttransport.com/landing/cornhole-tournament
- Death Over Dinner
September 27
Welcome Home of Chattanooga, a hospice organization, hosts a four-course dinner with wine and refreshments, while providing an opportunity to discuss the taboo topic of death, helping create a community of hope and healing.
Cost: $30 per person, $50 per couple
Contact: judith@welcomehomeofchattanooga.org, welcomehomeofchattanooga.org/special-events
- Celebration of Valor Luncheon
September 30
This year, the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center hosts Medal of Honor recipient Salvatore "Sal" Giunta as its keynote speaker. Proceeds from the luncheon support the center and its ongoing educational initiatives that reinforce patriotism, citizenship, courage, integrity, sacrifice and commitment.
Cost: $125 per person, $150 (VIP) per person, $1,500 per table
Contact: vince@mohhc.org, mohhc.org/valor
OCTOBER
- Dare to Drag
October 1
Watch local drag amateurs and professional queens give it their all on stage for a good cause: helping support the Kidney Foundation of Chattanooga.
Cost: $40-$75
Contact: 423-265-4397, kidneyfoundation.com/dare-to-drag
- Beyond the Ribbon - Le Diner en Blanc
October 1
An elegant soiree with attendees dressed entirely in white, this signature event celebrates Cempa Community Care Champions and reflects on the four decades that HIV/AIDS has impacted our community and affected those we love. The event is complemented by art, music and performances.
Cost: TBD
Contact: cempa.org
- Children's Classic Golf Tournament
October 3
Erlanger Health System Foundation's annual golf invitational will be held at the Chattanooga Golf and Country Club. The proceeds support the Children's Critical Care Transport Program.
Cost: TBD
Contact: taylor.hurley@erlanger.org, erlanger.org/golf
- 17th Annual ABC Event
October 6
Friends of Special Children hosts its annual get-together with dinner catered by Choo Choo BBQ, craft beer provided by Five Wits Brewing Company and a live and silent auction.
Cost: TBA
Contact: friendsofspecialchildren.org
- Best Cellars
October 7
An artfully curated evening event for connoisseurs of fine wines, premium wine selections will be paired with fine food, music and art for an elegant evening at Hunter Museum of American Art, benefiting Preserve Chattanooga.
Cost: $225
Contact: WOW@preservechattanooga.com, preservechattanooga.com/bestcellars
- Wine Over Water
October 8
This evening showcases 200 wine varieties, delicious food and a variety of live music, all taking place on the beautiful and historic Walnut Street Bridge. Ticket sales support Preserve Chattanooga and its mission to protect the architectural heritage of Chattanooga.
Cost: $125
Contact: WOW@preservechattanooga.com, preservechattanooga.com/wineoverwater
- Golf Classic
October 10
Held at Black Creek Club, this four-person scramble benefits the Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation, which provides direct assistance, both financial and material, to post-9/11 severely wounded veterans.
Cost: $1,000 per foursome
Contact:info@honoringthesacrifice.org, honoringthesacrifice.org
- Chattanooga Bacon & Barrel Festival
October 13
Bringing together 15 of Chattanooga's best restaurants and a vast array of spirits to savor, guests will enjoy healthy portions of unique bacon dishes while listening to live music, chatting with distillers and sipping fine bourbons, whiskeys and more. Proceeds benefit the Chattanooga Market.
Cost: $49
Contact: baconandbarrel.com/chattanooga
- Between the Bridges
October 15
Shop local art at this one-day festival featuring only local artists, with a special Potters Alley section of artists from Scenic City Clay Arts, organized by Chattanooga's Association for Visual Arts.
Cost: Free
Contact: sarah@avarts.org
- Women of Distinction Luncheon
October 19
This annual luncheon honors local women who have helped improve the quality of life for others, and names a Tennessee Woman of Distinction, defined by her leadership, philanthropic work and professional accomplishments.
Cost: $75
Contact: womenofdistinctiongc.com
- Choices Banquet
October 20
Choices hosts its annual banquet, empowering women and men facing pregnancy decisions to pursue abundant life in Christ.
Cost: Free
Contact: jlandreth@choiceschattanooga.org, team.choiceschattanooga.org/banquet
- Drink and Discover: Witches Brew
October 21
The Creative Discovery Museum closes to kids, letting adults 21 and up create their own "Witches Brew" and experience hands-on science and art demonstrations, with a drink in hand.
Cost: $40
Contact: bmd@cdmfun.org, cdmfun.org/events
- Aces Casino Night
October 21
The Children's Advocacy Center of Hamilton County's premier fundraising event includes heavy hors d'oeuvres, music, dancing, an open bar, a live and silent auction and complimentary casino games with top-notch prizes. This year's theme is UnMask Child Abuse, so come dressed in your best masquerade mask.
Cost: $95 for single casino ticket, $115 for single high-roller ticket, $190 for couple casino ticket, $230 for couple high-roller ticket
Contact: hgunter@cachc.org, cachc.org
- Dare to Dance
October 22
Based on the popular television show, "Dancing with the Stars," local celebrities put on their dancing shoes and dazzle fans alongside professional dancers for this daring dance-off - also serving as the Chattanooga Kidney Foundation's largest fundraising event.
Cost: TBA
Contact: 423-265-4397, kidneyfoundation.com/dare-to-dance
- Golf Tournament
October 25
Orange Grove Center's 14th annual tournament benefiting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities will be held at Council Fire Golf Club. Prizes will be awarded for hole-in-one, closest to pin, putting and longest drive.
Cost: TBA
Contact: development@orangegrove.org, orangegrovecenter.org
- "Not So Silent" Auction
October 27
An auction unlike any other, this fun spin on a charity auction boasts lively games and food, raising awareness and support for Northside Neighborhood House's ongoing work to support individuals and families living north of the Tennessee River in Hamilton County.
Cost: $100 per person, $800 per table (10 people), $1,250 per VIP table (all prices increase on September 16.)
Contact: 423-267-2217, nnhouse.org/events
- Witches & Wine
October 27
Put on your pointy hats and kick-start the most spooktacular time of year with nonprofit Downside Up, featuring a variety of wine, hors d'oeuvres and dancing, plus silent auction items.
Cost: $40
Contact: downsideupinc@gmail.com, downsideupinc.org
NOVEMBER
- Trefoil Society Luncheon
November 1
All proceeds from the Trefoil Society Luncheon go to support STEM programming in the greater Chattanooga community. This year's honoree is Sheila Boyington. Members of the Trefoil Society commit to support Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians through generous annual financial support, so girls can discover their leadership potential and take action in their communities.
Cost: $25
Contact: philanthropy@girlscoutcsa.org, 1-800-474-1912 ext. 2007
- Gowns for Good
November 2
Featuring lunch, a fashion runway show and a charity auction, this event is an opportunity to help uninsured neighbors receive access to primary care, with help from Volunteers in Medicine.
Cost: $75 per person, $500 per table of 8
Contact: info@vim-chatt.org, vim-chatt.org/124/gowns-for-good
- The BIG Happier Hour
November 3
Enjoy a delicious dinner delivered to the door, learn how to make a tasty new cocktail and celebrate how mentoring is igniting potential in the community while raising needed funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga.
Cost: $175 per couple
Contact: bbbschatt.org/events, 423-698-8016
- Hearts 4 the Arts Fashion Show
November 4
A luncheon and holiday fashion show plus performances by young artists will help benefit the Performing Arts League's mission to support youth involvement in the performing arts.
Cost: TBD
Contact: palchat16@gmail.com, palchattanooga.org
- Trailblazing Women's Fashion Show
November 5
A luncheon to honor female veterans and the wives of veterans, this year's gathering helps continue that support and produce nonprofit Freedom Sings USA's first all-female album.
Cost: $125 per person, $1,000 per table of 8
Contact: freedomsingsusa.org/
- Hope for the Holidays
November 5
An American Cancer Society black-tie event, this enchanted evening celebrates the holidays and hope, with all donations supporting local services for cancer patients.
Cost: $2,500 per table of 8
Contact: cynthia.rix@cancer.org, galaofhopechatt.org
- Tails at Twilight
November 10
Celebrate another successful year of providing life-saving care and homes for the animals at Pet Placement Center with wine, beer, dinner, a silent and live auction, door prizes and adoptable pets to meet all night long.
Cost: $65 per person, $110 per couple
Contact: petplacement@thalppc.com, petplacementcenter.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/9116
- Spectrum 2022
November 10 and 12
Spectrum is the Hunter Museum of American Art's largest annual fundraiser and is one of Chattanooga's premier cultural events featuring a silent auction and cocktail party on Nov. 10, followed by a black-tie seated dinner and gala with a live auction on Nov. 12. All proceeds support the museum's exhibitions, education programs and collections.
Cost: $150-$750
Contact: info@huntermuseum.org, huntermuseum.org
- Sharing Goodness Giving Circle Launch
November 15
This event, hosted at the Hunter Museum of American Art, will launch a giving circle to benefit smaller ministries that serve the local African-American community.
Cost: Free
Contact: maria@thegenerositytrust.org, thegenerositytrust.org/local-initiatives/
- ClubLit featuring Kevin Wilson
November 17
ClubLit is a fundraising event for SoLit, a Chattanooga literary arts organization, featuring New York Times bestselling author Kevin Wilson, who will speak about his new book, "Now is Not the Time to Panic." Hors d'oeuvres, specialty cocktails, a silent auction and music will highlight the evening.
Cost: $100 per person, $800 per table of 8
Contact: southernlitalliance.org
- thROWdown...Rowing for a Reason
November 19
Teams of up to 10 people compete to see who can row a marathon the fastest in this fundraising event to benefit Special Olympics Tennessee.
Cost: $500 per team
Contact: give.classy.org/thROWdown2022, jmcafee@specialolympicstn.org
- Sportsbarn Turkey Trot
November 24
Join the Kidney Foundation and The Chattanooga Track Club for the city's longest-standing road race. The holiday event is open to all, including dogs.
Cost: $6-$45
Contact: 423-265-4397, kidneyfoundation.com/turkey-trot
DECEMBER
- Equal Opportunity Day
December 8
This evening serves as the primary fundraiser for Urban League of Greater Chattanooga and represents the essence of the work the group does each day to fulfill its mission of enabling African Americans, other ethnic minorities and disadvantaged persons to secure economic self-reliance, power and civil rights - ultimately improving the quality of life for diverse individuals and families in the region.
Cost: $100
Contact: eacheson@ulchatt.net, ulchatt.net
- New Year's Eve Party
December 31
Honest Charley's rings in 2023 with fun, music, drinks, a great venue and more - all benefiting local autism programs and services through the Chattanooga Autism Center.
Cost: $60
Contact: celeste@chattanoogaautismcenter.org, chattanoogaautismcenter.org
JANUARY 2023
- Pink! Gala
January 21
CHI Memorial Foundation hosts its annual black-tie event, featuring auctions, dinner and dancing, all helping benefit the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center.
Cost: TBD
Contact: memorial.org
- Sunday Showcase
January 29
Performances by young artists from a variety of Chattanooga dance, music and theater organizations will benefit the Performing Arts League's support for youth in the performing arts.
Cost: $20
Contact: palchattanooga.org, palchat16@gmail.com
FEBRUARY
- A Dramatic Affair
February 16
Dinner and a theater performance will benefit the Performing Arts League's mission to support youth involvement in the performing arts.
Cost: TBD
Contact: palchattanooga.org, palchat16@gmail.com
- Annual Art Auction
February 25
Celebrate with more than 40 artists with all proceeds going toward Downside Up and the Training Wheels space, a creative and inclusive space for children of all abilities and their families.
Cost: $10 per adult (free to children)
Contact: downsideupinc.org, downsideupinc@gmail.com
MARCH
- AmuseUm
March 4
A night infused with entertainment and fun including food and beverages from various Chattanooga restaurants, creative games and activities to benefit the Creative Discovery Museum.
Cost: $125 per person, $175 per (VIP) person
Contact: cdmfun.org/events, bmd@cdmfun.org
- Stepping into Generosity Giving Circle Luncheon
March 7
This annual luncheon, hosted at the Lookout Mountain Club, is for women supporting women and benefits area ministries that serve women and children.
Cost: Free
Contact: maria@thegenerositytrust.org, thegenerositytrust.org/stepping-into-generosity/
- Bach & All That Jazz
March 10
A gala dinner plus musical performances and a silent auction all help benefit the Chattanooga Bach Choir's Masterworks and Cantata concerts.
Cost: TBD
Contact: chattanoogabachchoir.org, chattanoogabachchoir@gmail.com
- FORe THE KIDS Golf Tournament
March 21
A day on the green full of golf and camaraderie at Council Fire Golf Course, the funds raised during this event help to benefit the Children's Advocacy Center and the children of Hamilton County who have been sexually abused or suffered from severe physical abuse.
Cost: $150 per player, $1,200 per team
Contact: cachc.org, hgunter@cachc.org
- Hunter Underground
March 24
Hunter Underground, a chic cocktail party and silent auction, plays a pivotal role helping the Hunter Museum of American Art cultivate the next generation of museum patrons and includes a VIP preview, silent art auction, a curated "Art Heist Gallery" where ticket holders race to claim their favorite artwork, and a dance party at the conclusion of the auction.
Cost: $125-$250
Contact: huntermuseum.org, info@huntermuseum.org
- Strides of March
March 25
Serving as an opportunity to remember those lost to AIDS and celebrate the advancement of treatments, Cempa Community Care supporters will gather for a group march through downtown Chattanooga.
Cost: Free
Contact: cempa.org
APRIL
- Praise! Breakfast
April TBA
A community event that offers praise to the Lord for His blessings, past keynote speakers have included the following: Karen Abercrombie, actor in "War Room;" Megan Alexander, a reporter for "Inside Edition;" and Louise Mandrell, a country vocalist and musician.
Cost: TBD
Contact: scwn.org/events
- Chattanooga Women's Symposium
April 20
Join a community of women and men dedicated to addressing barriers that limit women in the workforce. This full-day conference helps support a broader network of women working together to increase the leadership capabilities and influence of women throughout the region.
Cost: $150-$200
Contact: info@cwli.org, cwli.org/chattanooga-womens-symposium-2022/
- 4 Bridges Arts Festival Preview Party
April 21
A special sneak peek of the 4 Bridges Arts Festival, guests can enjoy signature cocktails and drinks, food by Lee Towery Catering, live music and early access to more than 140 top artists at the festival. Tickets support the yearround programs, exhibits, and activities of the Association for Visual Arts.
Cost: $100
Contact: 4bridgesartsfestival.org, sarah@avarts.org
- 4 Bridges Arts Festival
April 22
The 23rd annual all things art fest returns to the Southside, featuring over 140 artists from all over the country. Make a day out of it with your family and enjoy live music, food and more.
Cost: $5 per person (free for kids under 18)
Contact: sarah@avarts.org, 4bridgesartsfestival.org
- Believe Bash
April 29
One of Chattanooga's premier black-tie events, this annual gala offers cocktails, dinner, entertainment and auctions, helping support the Children's Hospital at Erlanger.
Cost: TBD
Contact: erlangerfoundation.org/annualevents
MAY
- Another Gorgeous Evening
May 4
Another Gorgeous Evening is a night to celebrate Tennessee River Gorge Trusts's conservation work in the Tennessee River Gorge with an outdoor cocktail party.
Cost: TBD
Contact: trgt.org, alisheah@trgt.org
- Downside Up Charity Golf Open
May 4
Downside Up Charity Golf Event features 18 holes of golf at Creeks Bend Golf Club including carts, hole sponsors, food, drinks, door prizes, contests and more. All money raised goes to Downside Up.
Cost: $100 per person, $400 per team
Contact: downsideupinc.org, downsideupinc@gmail.com
- ChattaDerby
May 6
ChattaDerby takes place at Chattanooga Whiskey Hall each year during the Kentucky Derby. Festivities include televised coverage of the Run for the Roses, games, a silent auction, complimentary hors d'oeuvres, beer, wine and mint juleps. Proceeds benefit Chattanooga's Room in the Inn.
Cost: $75 per person, $550 per table of 8
Contact: chattanoogaroomintheinn.com, blalor@chattanoogaoomintheinn.com
- Wine, Women and Shoes
May 11
Chattanooga's wine-savvy, shoe-loving women are invited to come together for tastings and designer pop-up fashion shows during this second annual event supporting the Chattanooga Ronald McDonald House.
Cost: TBD
Contact: rmhchattanooga.com
JUNE
- Annual Garden Tour
June 10
Take a tour of Chattanooga-area private and public gardens to benefit the Chattanooga Area Food Bank and the Master Gardeners of Chattanooga scholarships and community projects.
Cost: $20
Contact: mghc.org, info@mghc.org
- Dining Out For Life
June 22
Dining Out For Life is an annual fundraising event involving the generous participation of volunteers, corporate sponsors and, of course, restaurants. Each year restaurants donate a portion of their proceeds from this one special day of dining. All money raised in Chattanooga stays local and supports the mission of Cempa Community Care and the Chattanooga CARES Foundation.
Cost: Varies
Contact: cempa.org
JULY
- American Heroes Dinner
July 14
This annual fundraising dinner benefits the Chattanooga-based Honoring the Sacrifice Foundation, which provides direct assistance, both financial and material, to post 9/11 severely wounded veterans who fought for freedom.
Cost: $125 per person, $1,250 per table of 8
Contact: honoringthesacrifice.org, info@honoringthesacrifice