National Civil Rights Leader Reverend Al Sharpton, Federal Judge Curtis Collier, Dr. Linda Moore Avila, Rodney Billups, Dr. Cornelius Mance, and Sister Willie McClendon Among 2026 Honorees
CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE — September 2026 — The Alton Park Development Corporation (APDC), along with co-sponsors in the Chattanooga Scenic City National Action Network, proudly announces the 13th Annual Chattanooga Humanitarian Award Gala, taking place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Chattanooga Civic Center Ballroom, 701 Hooker Road, Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The annual gala is a premier celebration of humanitarianism, leadership, public service, civil rights, community advocacy, health, faith, culture, and achievement. Each year, the event recognizes individuals whose extraordinary commitment to serving others has strengthened communities and helped advance the causes of justice, equality, health, opportunity, and empowerment.
The 2026 celebration will bring together community leaders, elected officials, faith leaders, business owners, professionals, advocates, media personalities, and citizens from throughout Chattanooga and surrounding communities for an evening dedicated to honoring exceptional service.
2026 HUMANITARIAN AWARD HONOREES
Reverend Al – National Civil Rights Leader and Icon
Reverend Al Sharpton will be honored for his decades of national leadership in the civil rights movement and his continued advocacy for equality, justice, voting rights, and social change. Representative Yusuf Hakeem (D-28) will also present him with a Tennessee State Proclamation
Federal Judge Curtis Collier – Distinguished Jurist and Public Servant
Federal Judge Curtis Collier will be recognized for his distinguished career in the judiciary and his commitment to justice, fairness, public service, and the community.
Dr. Linda Avila – Community Advocate for Mental Health
Dr. Linda Avila will be honored for her dedication to mental health advocacy and her commitment to raising awareness, providing support, and helping strengthen understanding and resources for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges.
Rodney Billups – Community Activist and Historical Business Leader of Herman’s Soul Food Restaurant
Rodney Billups will be recognized for his contributions as a community activist, entrepreneur, and leader connected to the historic legacy of Herman’s Soul Food Restaurant. His work represents the importance of preserving Chattanooga’s cultural, entrepreneurial, and community history.
Dr. Cornelius Mance – Community Advocate for Mental Health and Neurologist
Dr. Cornelius Mance will be honored for his professional contributions as a neurologist and his commitment to advocating for greater awareness, understanding, and support for mental health within the community.
Sister Willie McClendon – Gospel Talk Show Host and “Godmother of Gospel”
Sister Willie McClendon will be honored for her longstanding contributions to gospel music, Christian broadcasting, and the Chattanooga community. Known as the “Godmother of Gospel” on WNOO 1260 AM and 107.3 FM, Sister Willie McClendon has used her voice and broadcasting platform to celebrate gospel music, uplift listeners, promote faith, and connect the community through inspirational programming.
Her years of service in gospel radio have established her as a respected and influential voice within Chattanooga’s faith, music, and broadcasting communities. This humanitarian recognition celebrates her dedication to using media as a vehicle for encouragement, spiritual inspiration, community connection, and positive change.
A NIGHT DEDICATED TO SERVICE, LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY – The Chattanooga Humanitarian Award Gala is more than an awards ceremony. It is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate individuals who have dedicated their lives and careers to making a difference.
The 2026 honorees represent a remarkable cross-section of leadership — from the national civil rights movement and federal judiciary to mental health, medicine, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, grassroots community activism, faith, and gospel broadcasting.
The Alton Park Development Corporation is proud to host this year’s celebration and recognize individuals whose lives and work exemplify the values of service, leadership, compassion, perseverance, justice, faith, and community empowerment.
The event is presented by the Alton Park Development Corporation, with co-sponsors including the Chattanooga Scenic City National Action Network and additional community partners committed to advancing humanitarian values and strengthening the Chattanooga community.
Community members, civic organizations, businesses, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and members of the media are invited to participate in this special evening honoring outstanding humanitarian leadership. Tickets are $75. Sponsorship and Table Packages Are Available. Contact Justine Jones for Information about Tickets and Sponsorships (423) 331-8878