Dressed as Krishna, Alisha Chandra watches dancers perform an an India Association of Chattanooga cultural program.To better serve an increasingly diverse community, many organizations offer assistance and cultural activities that represent a wide range of countries and cultures.
Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 423-266-8658; www.bessiesmithcc.org. The interdisciplinary center promotes cultural, educational and artistic excellence and fosters research and education on African and black heritage. It also is an entertainment venue.
Bridge Refugee & Sponsorship Services of Chattanooga, 423-954-1911; www.bridgerefugeeschatt.org. The agency helps refugees resettle in Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Office of Multicultural Affairs, 311; www.chattanooga.gov. Develops and implements programs and activities to serve the needs of diverse social, cultural and economic groups within the city.
Chinese Association of Chattanooga; www.cca-ccs.org. A nonprofit organization to preserve Chinese traditions, customs, culture and language and to improve the well-being of the Chinese community in the Chattanooga area.
CLILA, Coalition of Latino Leaders in Dalton, Ga., 706-529-9216; www.lidereslatinos.org. An advocacy organization that works with the Hispanic community in the area to promote civic engagement and leadership.
Filipino American Association of Greater Chattanooga, 423-843-0028. Spearheads social and cultural activities. Preserves Filipino heritage.
Chattanooga German-American Club, 423-877-5898; http://lederhosenlounge.wetpaint.com. Meets monthly to socialize and celebrate German and Austrian heritage.
Gujarati Samaj of East Tennessee, 423-499-2799. Promotes Hindu heritage and culture through social activities, humanitarian efforts and other events.
Huguenot Society, 423-821-6844; http://huguenot.netnation.com. Local affiliate of the national group that celebrates French Huguenot history through sociocultural opportunities and events.
India Association of Chattanooga, 423-559-2717; www.indiachattanooga.com. Promotes Indian heritage through cultural events and holiday celebrations.
International Council of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, 423-763-4345; www.chattanoogachamber.com. Focuses on education and entrepreneurial excellence, economic development, advocacy and strategic partnerships for area immigrants or non-native entrepreneurs.
Islamic Society of Greater Chattanooga; www.chattislam.org. A nonprofit organization that offers prayer services and Sunday school for children, among other Islamic and social services.
Korean Association of Chattanooga, 423-280-7700, www.chattanoogakorean.org. Sponsors activities and assists with cultural transition.
* La Paz Chattanooga, 423-624-8414, www.lapazchattanooga.org. Connects the Latino community to the greater community through advocacy, education and inclusion.
Mosaic/Ocoee Region Multicultural Services, http://mosaiccenter.wordpress.com. An organization in Cleveland, Tenn., dedicated to promoting community awareness and harmonious acceptance of ethnic and cultural diversity among its residents.
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, 423-267-5637, www.naacp.org. Promotes parity in social, economic, employment and political settings among all races and ethnic backgrounds.
National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Chattanooga chapter, 423-698-0029, www.ncbw.org. Through education, networking and support, the group works to empower people of color.
Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, 423-899-8001, www.rainbowpush.org. An international human rights organization committed to economic development, voter registration, health care, jobs, peace, education and justice.
Chattanooga Sister Cities, www.chattanoogasistercities.org. Promotes awareness and understanding of diverse nations through communication, education and travel.
St. Andrews Center, 423-629-9872, www.st-andrewscenter.org. A faith-based multicultural center that serves as a catalyst for arts and education, faith and food initiatives and civic engagement.
Urban League of Chattanooga, 423-756-1762, www.ulchatt.net. Empowers minorities to achieve self-reliance, civil rights and economic independence.
U.S.-China Peoples Friendship Association, 423-698-7339, www.uscpfa.org. Area affiliate of national network aimed at strengthening the relationship between Chinese and Americans.
Women's Council on Diversity, www.councilondiversity.com. A group that gives a voice to cultures through visual art, dance, music and storytelling. Founded in 2001, the council collaborates with artists, community organizations, government agencies and corporations to create a global village in the South.