We are for the family.
To guide people in their relationships so they can live better lives.
For healthy relationship skills to be passed down from generation to generation.
The Story
In 1997, a group of Chattanooga civic and philanthropic leaders set out to answer a hard question: what was standing in the way of a thriving community? They brought in national researchers, including the National Institutes of Health and Barna Group, to study Hamilton County.
The findings were clear. When families struggle, the whole community feels it. And families facing economic hardship were carrying the heaviest load with the least access to support.
First Things First was founded to close that gap. Our early goals were ambitious: increase father involvement, reduce divorce, and help more children grow up in stable, healthy homes. Within five years, those goals were met.
But we kept listening. Families facing poverty, trauma, housing instability, and isolation needed more than a class. They needed a network of support. That understanding shaped who we are today.
Our Approach
Every family's story is different, so every family's path is too. We start by listening.
Then we walk alongside each family as they identify their next step, building support around what they actually need:
relationship education, one-on-one coaching, case management, or access to therapy.
Because every person has value, no matter their starting point.
How we support families
Fatherhood & Parental Transformation
We help fathers and parents develop the emotional awareness, consistency, and confidence needed to create healthy homes. Through classes, mentorship, and coaching, parents learn how to break unhealthy cycles and build stronger relationships with their children.
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Relationship Formation & Repair
Healthy relationships require intentionality, communication, and trust. We provide practical, research-based tools that help couples strengthen connection, repair conflict, and build relationships that last.
Family Support
Many families need more than information, they need support walking through complex situations. Our coaching and case management services help individuals navigate challenges, access resources and create clear steps forward.
Community Education & Advocacy
We believe healthy relationship skills should be accessible to everyone. Through partnerships, events, workplace education, and community outreach, we help normalize conversations around emotional health, parenting, marriage, and family stability.
Our Leadership
Community Impact Team
Operations Team
Development Team
Communications & Marketing Team
"I felt like a group of people was actually rooting for me and not judging me. I am able to be a better mom, able to communicate with my child better, and to get him where he needs to be, where he can have the future that he deserves."
Strong relationships can change generations.
