CHATTANOOGA’S FIRST ALS WALK IN OVER A DECADE
MAY 2, 2026
Rise for ALS Chattanooga, Inc. exists because our region deserves a movement rooted in hope, visibility, and real support for families facing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
At Rise for ALS, we believe every person facing ALS, and the families who carry it with them, deserves dignity, real support, and a voice that’s heard.
We show up with immediate, hands-on help, delivering care, resources, and relief when it matters most, so no one in our community has to face ALS alone.
Chattanooga’s 2026 ALS Awareness Walk Event Details
Saturday May 2
Gilbert-Stephenson Park
19 Van Cleve St, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
Registration begins 8:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremony: 10:00 a.m.
Walk Begins: 10:30 a.m.
We are walking because 75+ families in our backyard are fighting for their lives, and they shouldn’t be doing it alone.
This is a 1-mile walk, on a flat paved track. Proudly supported by the clinical teams of Hearth Hospice and Erlanger, and joined by Vanderbilt Health. Bring your friends, family, and dogs (leashed and friendly please). We’ll have a Memory Wall, an Honor Wall for our Veterans, fantastic vendors, fun prizes to give away, and activities for the kiddos (balloon animals & face painting).
Anyone who raises $90 or more will receive an official 2026 ALS Awareness Walk T-shirt
How Funds Are Used
Funds raised through the 2026 ALS Awareness Walk will be shared to support both local families and critical research. 50% of proceeds will remain right here in our local community through the Rise for ALS Chattanooga Local Care Fund, helping provide direct support and resources to families living with ALS. The remaining 50% will be donated to the ALS Association, Tennessee Chapter to advance research, advocacy, and patient services across the region.
OUR 2026 SPONSORS
Hearth Hospice isn’t just a provider of care, they are a steady, compassionate presence in some of life’s most difficult moments. Their team brings not only clinical excellence, but they meet families where they are, honoring every story, and helping create moments of peace, connection, and meaning when it matters most. As our Presenting Sponsor, Hearth Hospice is helping make the 2026 ALS Awareness Walk possible, standing with our community, supporting local families, and championing a mission that reaches far beyond a single day.
We are deeply grateful to Erlanger Health System for their generous sponsorship of the 2026 Chattanooga ALS Awareness Walk. As a leading healthcare provider in our region, Erlanger’s commitment to compassionate care and community health makes them an invaluable partner in raising awareness and support for families affected by ALS. Their support helps us expand our reach, strengthen community connections, and continue building a network of care for those facing this devastating disease.
We are incredibly grateful to True Plumb for their generous support of the 2026 Chattanooga Awareness Walk. Their commitment to service and strengthening local communities mirrors the heart of our mission, ensuring no family faces ALS alone. Thank you, True Plumb, for standing with us and helping make this event possible.
We are incredibly grateful to Connect Event Group for their support. Your commitment to our community and your partnership in this mission help us show up for families when it matters most. Thank you for standing with us and helping make real impact possible.
Rise for ALS Chattanooga is proud to partner with Neurizon, whose work developing innovative ALS treatments represents the future our community is fighting for. We are deeply grateful for their support and commitment to changing what’s possible.
We are deeply grateful to Imma Chef at Vintage Cafe for providing catering and hospitality support for the 2026 ALS Awareness Walk. Imma is generously preparing snack stations and a lemonade stand for attendees, helping ensure families, caregivers, and participants are cared for throughout the event. Her support allows us to create a welcoming, family-centered atmosphere our walkers.
Rise for ALS Chattanooga thanks White Duck Taco Shop for their generous support. We love a business that supports the community, and let’s be real… their tacos are amazing.
MadSun Studio provided the full branding and design for Rise for ALS Chattanooga Inc. Their intentional design work reflects the heart of our mission; strength, dignity, and community support.
We’re honored to partner with Fox & Fern Style, a local floral boutique, for the 2026 ALS Awareness Walk.
Thank you High Point Climbing and Fitness (Cleveland). We are grateful for their commitment to strengthening our community.
What is the mission of Rise for ALS Chattanooga, Inc.?
Rise for ALS Chattanooga, Inc. is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Ringgold, Georgia.
Our mission is to raise funds and visibility for ALS research and local Chattanooga and North Georgia ALS family support; including care services, equipment assistance, and community connection.
WHO WE SERVE
ALS Families- patients, spouses, children, and loved ones navigating a devastating diagnosis.
Caregivers- the emotional and physical backbone of every ALS journey.
Veterans- who face twice the risk of developing ALS.
Local Residents- community members seeking awareness, education, and a way to take action.
Healthcare + Senior-Care Partners; clinics, therapists, equipment providers, and support teams.
Rise for ALS serves the families, caregivers, veterans, and community members who are directly impacted by ALS. No one in our region deserves to navigate this disease alone; emotionally, financially, or spiritually.
Rise for ALS Chattanooga, Inc. is an approved 501(c)(3). All donations will be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Our very first signature event, the 2026 Chattanooga ALS Awareness Walk, will be held May 2, 2026; a day of unity, remembrance, and action.
A Community Movement for Hope, Research & Care
A Community Movement for Hope, Research & Care
What ALS Steals — And What We’re Rising to Change
ALS is progressive, incurable, and universally fatal
Loss of movement, speech, swallowing, breathing — but not the mind
Average progression: 2–5 years
Military veterans: 2x risk
Care costs can exceed $300,000+ a year
Come hang out with us 💙
Follow Rise for ALS on social media for event updates, community stories, and ways to get involved. We promise heart, hope, and the occasional behind-the-scenes moment.
