United Methodist Neighborhood Centers, Inc.
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I had the privilege of assisting in implementing a urban gardening program with Lurone Jennings and The Bethlehem staff. this center is accomplishing great things for the residents of the Alton Park district. Their vision and purpose reflects the desires of the staff to see great things happen with youth and residents of the area. What a tremendous ministry!
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Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
I became aware of the Bethlehem Center's mission and activities through Bible Study lead by Pastor Jennings. I started donating to the Beth because I was convinced of the good works done by Pastor Jennings and all the other hard workers and volunteers. Then I became a volunteer at the Beth and eventually became a Board member. I still donate and volunteer at the Beth as I continue to believe in its mission. It truly serves as a safe, Christian haven for children and youth in the neighborhood. The documented strides made by the Beth in literacy are amazing and its literacy program has been adopted by other organizations and churches and endorsed by our local educators. I only wish the services offered for children and adults in the Alton Park neighborhood had been available to me when I was growing up and feeling very alone and unloved in a very dysfunctional family. Keep up the great work!!!
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Will you volunteer or donate to this organization beyond what is required of board members?
Likely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
The Bethlehem Center offers children educational opportunities, help with school work, exercise, nutrition, and fun activities. I really love that the kids have the opportunity to earn money throughout the program, and at the end are given a lesson in budgeting when they are paired with adults to spend their earnings. Not only do they have programs for children, but they serve the community in many ways focusing on healty lifestyle changes.
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Would you volunteer for this group again?
Likely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
I came to The Beth 50 years ago and I have not left. As a student, teacher/coach, board member, donor and executive director. I am blown away each day I serve this community and beyond through the Bethlehem Center. God's hand is always moving in this ministry to bring hope to the staff, board and participants. Check it out and your life will never be the same.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
My personal life and career was influenced by the Bethlehem Center.. It motivated me to go into teaching and coaching youth.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would duplicate its services to share with other communities.
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Was your donation impactful?
Definitely
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Definitely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
What specific problem, purpose, priority, or project prompted your gift?
Its overall mission and commitment to transform inner-city Chattanooga.
Why did you make your donation at this time?
Wanted to make a difference.
What would you tell others about this organization?
Get involved. It will bless you and change you.
There are a lot of really cool kids at the Beth and they are really nice. The Beth helps with all your school needs. They also care about who you can't be around and what you shouldn't do.
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How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
A lot
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
As a mom who has worked with the children and staff at the Beth for everything from fund raising to Christmas shopping with the kids, I appreciate the safe haven and opportunities the Beth provides for our children in Chattanooga. The children are precious, and the staff is always responsive and appreciative. What a great organization and resource!!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I have been blessed by having the opportunity to work with the kids and staff of The Beth
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
none
I am thoroughly impressed with what the Bethlehem Center is doing for the city of Chattanooga. It's wholesome community service I have found unparalleled with similar institutions. The staff I have found to manifest a consistent patient and self-sacrificing disposition that is rarely seen in this busy age we live in.
The BETH is more than a community center, it is a city of refuge within a city. A place where young and old alike can find direction and encouragement. The programs they offer for the community do not merely sustain and provide wholesome entertainment. In addition to this, the staff are dedicated to educating, inspiring, and ministering to the needs of the family and the individual heart. Past history and the present day testifies to the truth of this fact. What a different America it would be if every community had their own Bethlehem Center!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
working with the staff in promoting, organizing, and participating in community health presentations, health expos, community health outreach, and healthy cooking demonstrations.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Although I am sure the BETH could improve, at the moment I cannot think of anything. Perhaps funds for more playground equipment.
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How does this organization compare with others in the same sector?
Very Well
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you recommend this organization to others?
Definitely
What is unique about this organization?
The nature of the community service that is offered. The BETH works with the whole person. It provides rehabilitation instead of a crutch. It is the only community center that I know of that instructs persons on: how to cook healthfully, garden, as well as the usual social support.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
I have benefited from the Bethlehem Center a number of years. As a child, I attended the Good Shepherd Fold Day Care Center. As a teen, I participated in various activities at the Bethlehem Center. As an adult, I am privileged to be a part of their Economic Development. I love the haven that "THE BETH" provides for children and adults. The center offers programs that can benefit any individual in any life situation. I am PROUD to have been a part of the BETH, and that the BETH is still a part of me!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Economic development-Community Outreach
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
not change one thing.
The Bethlehem Center is doing great things for the community.
Keep up the good work!!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I visited the Resource Center a few months ago and was very pleased with how courteous the staff was with the customers. Very good prices.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Expand it!
Several years ago I had the privilege of teaching under Lurone Jennings as my principal. He set an example for his teachers and students to follow Jesus Christ and that we are a result of our thoughts and actions. Lurone has brought this philosophy to the Bethlehem Center and all who enter in. Lurone remains a mentor and inspiration to me as a teacher and Christian.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I continue to work within the inner city. It is well-known in our community that if you want to be successful on any level, that The Beth is where you need to be.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would expand the educational programs to include job search and providing the support to learn the "hows and whys" of finding and keeping a job.

Larry, The gardens look fantastic this year! The residents are working hard to grow food and share it with their neighbors. Thanks for having such a great vision for the gardens throughout Alton Park and for all the hard work to make it happen!