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Programs & Initiatives
The Bridge Builder Collective is dedicated to empowering our community through a variety of impactful programs and events. Each initiative is carefully crafted to support personal growth, community engagement, and professional development. Explore our programs and services below to see how we are making a difference.
Dr. Marvin Lott Scholarship Program
The Dr. Marvin Lott Scholarship Program is dedicated to supporting students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to community service. In 2024, we awarded two students $2,500 scholarships each, and we plan to do the same in 2025. This brings our total scholarship distribution to $10,000 over the first two years of the program's operation. Through these scholarships, we aim to provide deserving students with the financial resources needed to pursue their educational goals and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Click here to view more information about the program.
Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program
The Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program is a year-long initiative that provides young men with valuable mentorship and guidance. The program includes bi-monthly sessions—one virtual and one in-person—designed to foster personal development, leadership skills, and academic achievement. Activities include golfing, hiking, bowling, and attending a Chattanooga Lookouts game. In 2025, the program will partner with UTC's Challenger Center to take mentees on a simulated space mission, offering them a unique educational experience. The Omega Lamplighters Mentoring Program is free of charge, ensuring that every young man has the opportunity to benefit from this transformative experience.
Click here to view more information about the program.
The Bridge Builder Cookout
Our annual Bridge Builder Cookout is a celebration of community and collaboration. This event brings together families, friends, and supporters for a day filled with fun activities, delicious food, and engaging conversations. It’s an opportunity to strengthen bonds and celebrate our shared commitment to building a better future together.
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Baseball With "Da Bruhz"
Baseball With Da Bruhz is an exciting event where we take youth to a Chattanooga Lookouts Baseball game in June. This initiative aims to foster a love for sports, promote teamwork, and provide a fun, memorable experience. It also offers an opportunity for mentors to connect with young participants in a relaxed and engaging environment, helping to build strong, positive relationships.
Purple & Gold Table Talk
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Purple & Gold Table Talk is an open forum that brings together community leaders, mentors, and participants to discuss important issues affecting our community. These conversations are designed to inspire action, promote understanding, and foster a sense of unity among attendees. Click here to view our episodes.
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Scenic City Football Championship
The Scenic City Football Championship is an exciting event that brings together local football teams to compete for the title of city champion. This event not only showcases the athletic talents of our youth but also fosters community spirit and sportsmanship. It is a day filled with competitive games, enthusiastic crowds, and an undeniable sense of community pride. Congratulations to the 2023 winners, Tyner Academy, who received a trophy and celebrated with a pizza party at Goodfella's Pizzeria.
SmartDad Finance
SmartDad Finance is a program designed to help fathers in our community improve their financial literacy. Through workshops and personalized coaching, participants learn how to manage their finances, create budgets, save for the future, and achieve financial stability for themselves and their families.
Workforce Development
We are committed to equipping our community’s future leaders with the skills they need to succeed. As part of our Workforce Development program, we select 4 outstanding college students (2 from Tennessee Tech and 2 from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga) to attend a prestigious undergraduate summit. At this summit, students learn essential skills such as resume writing, interview techniques, and professional etiquette, and engage in mock interviews with potential employers.
VREM Initiatives
Our VREM Initiatives focus on voter registration, education, and mobilization to ensure that every voice in our community is heard. We provide resources, workshops, and campaigns to educate citizens about their voting rights and encourage active participation in the democratic process.