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.