Get Involved
At the CHATT Foundation we are striving every day to meet the basic needs of the homeless while providing clear paths of self-sufficiency. Our volunteers are vital to our mission! Through the hard work, dedication, and compassion of our volunteer base, we can serve our unsheltered neighbors well.
We have opportunities daily to serve Chattanooga’s homeless across 6 programs- including Food Service, Community Service, Shelters, and So Much More.
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How can my school, church, or company group volunteer?
Please use our group inquiry form.
How many can volunteer in a group?
We ask that volunteer groups do not exceed 30 volunteers. For accommodations, please reach out to the volunteer coordinator directly at volunteer@chattfoundation.org.
Where to park?
We recommend parking on either side of the East 11th Street. You will also be provided with parking instructions and a parking pass when you sign up for a shift.
Can my children volunteer?
Volunteers must be at least 10 years old to volunteer in our thrift store, food service department, and group volunteering on the weekends. Those under 18 need parental consent. In all other departments, volunteers must be 18 or older.
We recommend parents and guardians volunteer without their children once to make the best judgements for their family.
I’d like to facilitate special programming.
Please reach out to us at volunteer@chattfoundation.org to get connected to the right department.
What should I wear to volunteer?
Modest top, long pants, and closed-toed shoes. Please, no crop tops or shorts.
If working in the kitchen, please have your hair pulled back to be worn under a hairnet (provided) or hat.
Can I bring a friend to volunteer with me?
Absolutely! Arrive a few minutes before your shift starts so your friend can complete our application and waiver before starting to work.
How do I change or cancel my volunteer schedule?
Login into your volunteer portal or cancel through your reminder email. Please do this 24 hours in advance (if possible).
I’m interested in touring the facility. How can I do this?
Reach out to our organization at kitchen@chattfoundation.org
Can I take pictures when I volunteer?
Sure you can! Please read our Participant Privacy and Photo Policy in the Volunteer Handbook.
I have reviewed the information on the website, and I am still unsure where to volunteer.
Please update your “skills” on your volunteer profile. This will direct you to opportunities that fit your talents and interests. Try using filters to find the opportunities that fit your schedule. If you are still unsure, you can reach out to the volunteer coordinator at volunteer@chattfoundation.org
What should I bring with me to volunteer? Where can I put my belongings?
We recommend bringing limited personal effects with you when you volunteer. In our volunteer breakroom, volunteers can store personal items in lockers and hooks.
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Please visit this link to see special group projects currently needed.
If no projects are available or the group is unable to participate in the available projects, please use our group inquiry form.
For school groups and groups with minors, please note that we only accept high school-age and up students during the week (Monday- Friday). We also require one chaperone per 10 minor volunteers.
If looking for opportunities for those younger than high school age, please check out our offsite volunteer opportunities.
Due to our limited inventory of bottled water, we ask that volunteer groups provide their own bottled water for the group. This allows us to save our inventory for our homeless participants.
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More to come..