Rise for ALS provides direct, no-cost support to individuals and families facing ALS across Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia. Every program is designed to meet real needs in real time, because support shouldn’t be delayed, and it shouldn’t be out of reach.

Support and Services

  • Respite Grant Program

    Caregiving for someone with ALS is physically and emotionally demanding. Our Respite Grant Program helps relieve that burden by covering the cost of in-home care through a professional agency or qualified individual. This allows caregivers time to rest, manage daily responsibilities, or simply take a necessary break, without compromising the safety and care of their loved one.

    Any individual living with ALS in Chattanooga or Northwest Georgia and registered with Rise for ALS is eligible to apply.

  • Equipment Program

    We provide essential medical and daily living equipment at no cost, either through direct purchase or loan.

    Available items include:

    -Patient lifts and sit-to-stand lifts
    -Wheelchair ramps
    -Shower chairs, benches, and commodes
    -Elevated toilet seats and safety frames
    -Daily living aids such as reachers, dressing tools, adaptive utensils, and oral care supplies

    When possible, we also connect families with trusted community partners to expand access to additional equipment.

  • Children's Support Fund

    ALS impacts the entire family, especially children. We provide resources to help families navigate conversations about ALS at every age, along with financial support for children (18 and under) to continue participating in normal, meaningful activities. Whether it’s sports, school events, or everyday experiences, this fund helps preserve a sense of stability during an unstable time.

  • Individual Support Services

    ALS looks different for every family, and support should too.

    We offer flexible, individualized assistance based on real-life needs.

    This may include:

    -Transportation to medical appointments
    -Financial assistance requests
    -Legacy projects and memory work
    -Other day-to-day support as needs arise

    If you’re not sure what to ask for, reach out, we’ll figure it out together.

  • Medical Referrals & Clinical Guidance

    We work closely with the Erlanger ALS Clinic and other regional specialists to help families access experienced, ALS-focused care. We also provide guidance on navigating clinical trials, treatment options, and available programs so families can make informed decisions with confidence.

  • Volunteers

    Our volunteers show up in practical, meaningful ways.

    Support may include:

    -Yard work and home accessibility projects (including ramp builds)
    -Household errands and chores
    -Companionship visits
    -Supplemental respite support

    These are the kinds of things that make daily life more manageable, and remind families they’re not alone.

  • Advocacy and research

    ALS is often misunderstood and under-recognized. Rise for ALS is working to change that.

    We actively raise awareness in our local community while supporting national research efforts and monitoring legislation that impacts ALS families across Tennessee, Georgia, and beyond. Because real change happens when people are informed, and when families have a voice.