This Organization, CALEB (Chattanooga in Action for Love, Equality, and Benevolence), represents the needs and goals of our community by collectively bringing together different groups who share the same vision for our city and its betterment. By being united we are able to effect change and win-wins for all people within our city. CALEB is a Gamaliel affiliate. The Gamaliel Foundation is a grassr
oots network of non-partisan, faith-based organizations in 17 U.S. states and internationally, that organizes to empower ordinary people to effectively participate in the political, environmental, social and economic decisions affecting our lives. (Find out more at: www.gamaliel.org/AboutUs)
CALEB’s “purpose is to bring together an institutional coalition of Faith-Based, Labor, and other community organizations in order that their constituents gain a powerful voice in public affairs and issues in the wider community.”
Our major goals:
· organize the residents of our communities to effect desired change in the economic, political, and social institutions of Chattanooga and the surrounding region
· mobilize the leadership of clergy and lay persons in Faith-Based and other community organizations to empower the people within their communities.
· To enhance the quality of life by:
1. Finding common interests between residents of all ages, races, religions, and income groups in order to shape the future of the city for the benefit of all
2. Increasing the number of residents and congregation members who are actively involved in initiating positive change in the Chattanooga region;
3. Improving communication and cooperation between area residents of all ages, races, religious and income groups
4. Providing leadership training so that residents can affect the policies that influence their lives.
· Solicit funds to accomplish these goals from all possible sources (membership dues, fundraising, donations and appropriate grants) with the exception of government.
· Collectively identify issues of concern, work towards an effective resolution, and amplify the power of residents. CALEB meets every 2nd Thursday at 6:30 PM at The Vine Building of First Centenary United Methodist Church (433 Oak St.).
