Since 1965 SETHRA has been addressing the
needs of families, individuals, and communities of Southeast
Tennessee. We began as Progress for People and evolved into
the Southeast Tennessee in 1985. Our presence in the
community is one of uniqueness because of our committed
participation with both the Tennessee Association of Human Resource
Agencies and the Tennessee Association of Community
Action. As a member of both associations, SETHRA is able to
integrate, coordinate, and provide a wide variety of
services to individuals, families and communities.
The HRA title means SETHRA is one of nine Human Resource
Agencies across the State of Tennessee and works in concert
with the other HRAs through membership in the Tennessee
Association of Human Resource Agencies (TAHRA) in providing
state-wide, wall-to-wall social services promoting a uniform
and comprehensive force in addressing the needs of our
individual communities. The Community Action Agency status
means we are one of 20 agencies actively participating in
combating poverty. The funding that results from being a
Community Action Agency provides for the flexibility to
design programs that address the specific needs of local
communities and the individuals they serve. The highest
priority is placed on helping people achieve long-lasting
independence and self-sufficiency.
As both a Human Resource Agency and a Community Action
Agency, our uniqueness extends further as we focus on the
entire family from birth to end-of-life; addressing numerous
needs. Our organization can provide a comprehensive approach
to addressing the distinctive needs within our communities.
Our programs provide measurable results to our stakeholders
who include local, state and federal funding partners, our
Board of Directors, and to you, a valued member of our
community. |
Ray Evans - SETHRA Executive Director
From humble
beginnings to a position of honor and integrity, Southeast
Tennessee Human Resource Agency has emerged as a steadfast
force in the war against poverty and homelessness. The
services provided by SETHRA throughout the rural communities
of Bledsoe, Bradley, Grundy, Marion, Meigs, McMinn, Polk,
Rhea and Sequatchie Counties, has brought hope and dignity
to those who need it most, the elderly, disabled and
impoverished.
In
looking toward the future, SETHRA will continue to grow in
various directions. Several of the projects underway include
the acquisition of the old Depot in Cleveland and the old
Health Department building in Marion County. These sites
will serve as transfer hubs to transport individuals to and
from the Chattanooga area and house existing programs. We
are developing fixed routes within the City of Cleveland. In
the City of Chattanooga, we are proposing to construct a
15,000 square foot building to house our Regional Transit
and Training Center. This Chattanooga facility will be the
axis to seamless transportation for the entire southeast
region providing yet another expansion to the collaborative
approach in assisting individuals to maintain their
independence.
SETHRA’s adherence to the mission and vision is due to
dedicated staff and
Board Members, along with community partners. Thanks and
appreciation to members of the General Assembly, the
Congressional delegation and the employees of the State,
Federal, and Local Governments. A special thanks to Governor
of the State of Tennessee, Phil Bredesen. It is with his
support and the Commissioners who work with him that has
enabled SETHRA’s continued growth. |
