Chattup!

A group supporting the community through interaction. It has grown from social networks to engage the community and it's members in many ways with the help of community partners.

The Goal:

To engage the community to visit and renew their support in local organizations, network and build relationships.

The Need:

Many local Chattanooga, TN institutions are seen as primarily tourist attractions, the art museum, galleries and the Chattanooga Zoo. These organizations have always looked for better ways to engage local participation.

The result:

As of May 2009, there have been 4 Chattup! meet-ups. The group grew from 30 to over 150+ in a six month period. The primary means of communication used to organize the group began with social media, Facebook,Twiter and Myspace. With more interest and community reach growing the project continues to utilize social media as a main communications outlet but has also began to use more traditional means such as poster and flyers and word of mouth advertising. By partnering with local businesses and organizations Juncture and Chattup! have provided new membership and awareness to local attractions as well as building relationships with local restaurants to sponsor refreshments for guest.

The Steps:

1. Identify local attractions and institutions looking for community outreach
2. Organize the Event and meet with facilitating groups.
3. Approach local restaurants for sponsorship
4. Social Media blast through Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, e-mail and chattmeetup.com
5. Traditional flyers and posters
6. Meet-up for information, fun and camaraderie.