Girls Inspired, an outreach ministry of the Collegedale Church, will be hosting its first annual “Homeless Not Helpless” fundraiser. All proceeds from the event will benefit unhoused marginalized young women in the Chattanooga community and environs.

The keynote speaker is Ms. Mackenzie Kelly, the recently selected Executive Director of the Chattanooga Regional Homelessness Coalition (CRHC). Kelly’s leadership responsibilities include: ensuring smooth operations; connecting homeless individuals with needed resources; being financially astute with the CRHC’s funds; and collaborating with philanthropic and housing organizations. Ms. Kelly is passionate about assisting homeless and vulnerable individuals in communities, partnering with organizations such as Girls Inspired.

Founded in 2021, Girls Inspired exists to cultivate the innate potential of girls and young women by providing mentorship, academic support, life skill education, new experiences, and safe housing. At present Girl’s Inspired operates three core programs to assist young girls in the Chattanooga area. The first program provides assistance in the form of mentoring and personal development to adolescent girls at Brainerd High School (In-School Program). The second, located at the East Lake Boys and Girls Club, helps elementary-aged girls develop essential social and emotional learning skills (After-School Program). The third and final program, is a residential program providing housing and support for unhoused young women ages 18 to 24 year as they work toward stability and independence (Serenity Point Transitional Supportive House Program).

Proceeds from the “Homeless Not Helpless” gala will directly support the Serenity Point Transitional Supportive Housing initiative. Serenity Point’s mission is to empower marginalized young women by creating a nurturing environment filled with kindness, peace and community. Many of the young women receiving assistance have faced significant trauma, and it is crucial that they have a safe space to facilitate their healing journey. Serenity Point offers this sanctuary providing private living spaces, life skills education, case management support with transportation to employment and medical appointments, and food assistance.

The evening will feature dinner, live entertainment, and opportunities for the community to partner in transforming the lives of young women in need. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available on the Girls’ Inspired website.