Quarter 3 brought a steady rhythm of progress and connection to College Hill Courts. Workshops, job events, and on site support gave residents new tools for stability and long term growth. Much of this momentum comes through the strong presence of Urban Strategies, Inc. (USI), our lead partner for people centered work at One Westside. Their team continues to be a steady anchor in the neighborhood by coordinating services, guiding households, and keeping the People Plan moving forward.
Community Programs and Progress
The mobile American Job Center visited the Westside neighborhood twice in July and twice in August. Residents received help with job searches, resumes, interview practice, and registration for JOBS4TN, which lists thousands of opportunities across Tennessee. These visits gave neighbors direct coaching that can open doors to steady work.
Tech Goes Home completed two in depth workshops focused on digital readiness and job preparation. Twenty three residents enrolled. Ten completed the full program and received a laptop, giving them new tools for learning and career steps.
Books and activities also arrived right at residents’ doorsteps through the Chattanooga Public Library’s Bookmobile, known as Poppy. Children and adults enjoyed new reading material and time with library staff.
On August 28, Dress for Success opened its boutique at College Hill Courts. The space offers professional clothing along with styling help, interview practice, resume support, and one on one coaching. Their team has already become a reassuring presence for residents preparing for new opportunities.
That same day, USI hosted a Health and Wellness meeting that drew more than forty residents. Partners including CHI Memorial, CADAS, CEMPA, and the Hamilton County Health Department shared guidance on day to day wellness and answered questions. This meeting also introduced Robert Love, the new Senior Project Manager at College Hill Courts. Robert brings decades of experience and a steady, thoughtful approach to community work. He has already become a trusted point of contact for residents and partners alike.
On September 5, the Chattanooga Housing Authority (CHA) and USI hosted a resource fair near the flagpole at College Hill Courts. Families connected with organizations focused on stability, growth, and personal wellbeing. The event created a welcoming atmosphere where residents could learn, ask questions, and build new connections.
Later in the month, on September 23, Block Companies and Waterman Steele partnered with USI to host a CHA Section 3 job fair at College Hill Courts. More than one hundred ten people attended. Eighty eight residents submitted applications, and eighty three applications were shared with participating contractors. Childcare, meals, and raffle prizes helped create a friendly environment. One Section 3 worker has already been hired for general labor, with more placements expected as construction advances.
Employment progress is also taking shape. USI’s Family Support Specialists assisted ten heads of household in securing jobs. As a result of these efforts, the overall employment rate at College Hill Courts increased three percent this quarter.
Planning for the future remains a central focus. Insights gathered through resident feedback showed that most residents hope to live in the revitalized neighborhood once construction is complete. These findings will help guide our relocation team, Housing Opportunities Unlimited as they prepare for upcoming relocation support.
Quarter 3 reminded us of what is possible when partners show up with care and commitment. Together, residents, partners, and service providers are shaping a brighter future for the Westside one step, one gathering, and one event at a time.
The Housing Plan is advancing at College Hill Courts, with new housing, improved streets, and community amenities. Phases 1 and 2 are underway, connecting residents to jobs and services, while planning for Phase 3 focuses on future infrastructure.
The Mental Health Cooperative is weaving emotional well-being into the foundation of the Westside redevelopment plan. Over the next eight years, MHC will invest $176,000 in mental health services for Westside residents and open an on-site office within College Hill Courts to make care local, personal, and easy to access.
