Tag: Volunteers

boxing, Chattanooga, Chattanooga outreach, community, Family, fitness, Healing, Health, parkinsons, Safety, Sports, volunteer

In This Corner, Hope

Written by Amy Hanna

Boxer George Linden throws a jab into the heavy bag during an afternoon training session at Rock Steady Boxing. Linden joined Rock Steady six years ago in the hopes that it will help with his Parkinson’s symptoms. Tuesday, September 26, 2026. (Photo by Hannah Godel)

At a gym in the outskirts of Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, 70-year-old boxer George Linden pulls on his gloves, shuffles through stations, and bobs his head to the beat of “Eye of the Tiger” as it blasts through the speakers. 

Each punch, kick and jab is a way for Linden to fight back against the toughest opponent – Parkinson’s Disease. 

Kristen Schillaci, a coach at Rock Steady Boxing, speaks about the specialized fitness program and the vital role that community plays in fighting back against Parkinson’s disease. This organization serves as an empowering space for individuals seeking to improve their mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. They provide non-contact boxing training and dedicated support for the community so members can build resilience against this degenerative condition.

In 2015, Linden’s family began noticing potential symptoms of the disease. It was not until two years later that Linden finally visited the general practitioner, and after being referred to a neurologist, received his diagnosis.

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Chattanooga, Chattanooga outreach, community, Daily Life, Diversity, donate, Family, Sustainability

Truly Priceless

Written by Koleby Gilbert

Koleby Gilbert interviews Liz Hutcherson and Nena Beckham about the Chattanooga Free Store, their involvement in it, and the positive impact it has on the community.

On the corner of Dodson Ave. and Ocoee St. sits a quiet, unassuming building with little more than an open sign and organization logo on the storefront. Underneath reads a simple phrase: “Solidarity, not charity.” Take a closer look inside and you’ll be met with clothing racks, a variety of toys, shoes and hygiene products—all without a price tag.

The Chattanooga Free Store is a non-religious, completely volunteer-run organization that actively embraces mutual aid, serving a community of families and friends at least three times a week. Including items like toys, health products, sexual health items, and food from their community fridge, the Free Store is for everyone; no questions, judgment or payment.

Long-time manager and volunteer, Liz Hutcherson, has been a shining beacon of hope, collaboration and strength within the community fostered by the Free Store. 

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