Advocacy and Peacebuilding

 

Local Advocacy Groups:

  • Knoxville: The East Tennessee Peace and Justice Center focuses on social justice and peace initiatives.

  • Maryville: The Blount County Democratic Women’s Club engages in social justice advocacy.

  • Oak Ridge: The Women’s Interfaith Dialogue of Oak Ridge promotes understanding and collaboration among different faiths.

Environmental Advocacy:

  • Appalachian Mountain Advocates: Provides legal support for environmental protection efforts.

  • Sierra Club Tennessee Chapter: Engages in local environmental campaigns and offers volunteer opportunities.

  • Citizens to End Nuclear Weapons in Oak Ridge: Advocates for nuclear disarmament and related issues.

Recreation and Wellness Resources

 

Parks and Trails:

  • Knoxville: Ijams Nature Center offers trails and outdoor activities.

  • Oak Ridge: Melton Lake Park provides waterfront recreation opportunities.

  • Maryville: The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway offers scenic walking and biking paths.

Health and Fitness:

  • YMCA: Branches in Knoxville, Oak Ridge, and Maryville offer fitness programs and community activities.

  • Yoga Studios: The Glowing Body in Knoxville and Maryville Yoga Studio offer classes for various skill levels.

Community Events:

  • Farmers’ Markets: Local markets in Knoxville, Oak Ridge, and Maryville provide access to fresh produce and artisan goods.

  • Wellness Workshops: Local libraries and community centers often host free or low-cost wellness workshops.

Youth and Education Resources

 

Mentorship and Academic Support:

  • Knoxville: Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee matches youth with mentors to support their development.

  • Maryville: The Blount County Youth Court Program provides a restorative justice approach for first-time juvenile offenders.

  • Oak Ridge: The Boys & Girls Club of Oak Ridge offers after-school programs and activities for youth.

Job Training and Skills Development:

  • Knoxville: The Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) provides job training and placement services.

  • Oak Ridge: The Tennessee Career Center offers workshops and resources for job seekers.

  • Maryville: Goodwill Industries provides training programs to enhance employment opportunities.

Scholarship and Education Initiatives:

  • East Tennessee Foundation: Offers various scholarships and grant programs for students in the region.

  • Blount Partnership Education Foundation: Supports educational resources and initiatives in Blount County.

Community Support Resources

 

Food Assistance:

  • Knoxville: FISH Hospitality Pantries provide food across multiple locations.

  • Oak Ridge: Ecumenical Storehouse offers food and household items for families in crisis.

  • Maryville: Second Harvest Food Bank supports agencies serving Blount County.

Housing and Shelters:

  • Knoxville: Knoxville Area Rescue Ministries (KARM) provides emergency shelter.

  • Maryville: Haven House supports domestic violence victims.

  • Oak Ridge: ADFAC offers housing assistance.

Healthcare Clinics:

  • Knoxville: InterFaith Health Clinic provides affordable care for the uninsured.

  • Oak Ridge: Free Medical Clinic serves uninsured patients.d patients.