Empowering Chattanooga’s Next Generation of Heroes.
Because we believe that those who want to serve, should serve.
Our Mission
The Bridge to Service Fund is dedicated to removing financial barriers for individuals aspiring to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces within the broader Chattanooga area. Our mission is to empower motivated candidates by providing the necessary financial support to meet enlistment requirements, ensuring that financial constraints do not stand in the way of their commitment to serve our country.
The Bridge to Service Fund was born from a collaborative partnership between the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) and the American Legion. Together, they united around a shared vision and commitment to helping aspiring service members overcome financial obstacles on their path to enlistment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bridge to Service?
The Bridge to Service Fund is a charitable foundation designed to help individuals who aspire to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces but face financial barriers. The fund provides financial assistance to cover expenses necessary to meet enlistment requirements.
Who is eligible for assistance from the Bridge to Service Fund?
The fund is available to recruiters in Chattanooga’s Armed Forces Recruiting Centers. It helps applicants, prospects, and future soldiers who need financial support to become eligible for enlistment and deployment.
What types of expenses does the fund cover?
Medical / Physical
- Medical / physical consultations
- Vision examinations
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Dental examinations and necessary costs for service
- Drug abatement (screening, assistance programs, counseling services)
- Tattoo removal
- Medication prescriptions
- Weight loss / healthy lifestyle counseling
- Physical fitness training
- Future soldier training
Education
- GED procurement (coursework, study sessions)
Documentation
- Procurement of necessary documents (e.g., social security card, state-issued ID)
- Citizenship requirements (e.g., green card or proof of citizenship)
Legal & Financial
- Legal fees (e.g., expungement fees, assistance with felony waivers)
- Financial counseling / assistance (e.g., account opening, credit card procurement, filing taxes)
Communication
- Cell phone and plan procurement
Transportation
- Any transportation required for one of the above eligible expenses
How do I apply for assistance from the Bridge to Service Fund?
If you are an applicant or future soldier interested in receiving assistance, please contact your recruiter at one of Chattanooga’s Armed Forces Recruiting Centers. They will guide you through the application process and determine your eligibility for the fund.
How can I make a donation to the Bridge to Service Fund?
To make a donation to the Bridge to Service Fund, please visit this page.
Who oversees the fund and ensures the proper use of donations?
The Bridge to Service Fund is affiliated with the “Scenic City Heroes” American Legion Post 291 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This organization monitors the fund to ensure all donations are used in strict adherence to established guidelines.
Are donations to the Bridge to Service Fund tax-deductible?
Yes, donations to the Bridge to Service Fund are tax-deductible. The foundation operates under the American Legion Post 291, which is recognized as a 501(c)(19) tax-exempt veterans’ organization by the IRS. Donors are encouraged to consult with a tax professional to ensure their contributions meet the criteria for deduction.
What documentation do I need to keep for my donation to be tax-deductible?
To ensure your donation is tax-deductible, keep a record of your contribution, such as a receipt or a copy of the check. We recommend consulting with a tax professional to confirm the specific documentation needed based on your donation and individual tax situation.
Can I specify how my donation will be used?
Donations to the Bridge to Service Fund are pooled together to support all eligible expenses for applicants and future soldiers. While donors cannot specify the exact use of their funds, all contributions are used in accordance with the foundation’s mission to remove financial barriers to military enlistment.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have additional questions or need more information, please reach out to us through our contact page or get in touch with the American Legion Post 291 in Chattanooga.
Contact Us
Have questions or need more information? Reach out to us — we’re here to help you bridge the gap to your future in military service.
You can contact us via email or by filling out the form below.
Bridge to Service
PO Box 8094
Chattanooga, TN 37411