At Brainerd High School (BHS), the Brainerd Believers Fund has become a powerful expression of community support and endurance. Launched by Principal Dr. Crystal Sorrells, the initiative was designed to “reignite our support throughout the community,” drawing contributions from alumni, local businesses, and neighbors eager to give back.
This year, the fund’s reach grew dramatically in response to the severe flooding that struck Chattanooga in mid-August. What began as a small conversation quickly mobilized into an organized relief effort.
“From that Wednesday to Saturday, we went from a text thread to a commercial, flyers, and then a full donation drive here at the school,” Dr. Sorrells said. “It was unreal how much community support walked through the door.”
With the help of City Councilman Dennis Clark, Brainerd High hosted the District 5 Flood Relief Donation Drive, where residents and businesses came together to provide cleaning supplies, hygiene products, clothing, school items, and more.
In total, relief efforts have supported 49 families, distributing more than $20,000 in donated goods and raising approximately $1,600 in direct financial support. Needs were collected through an online resource form, where families could detail clothing sizes, school supply lists, household requests–and even personal prayer needs.
“The prayer requests have been powerful,” said Dr. Sorrells. “We share them amongst our team and really try to make sure that whatever the need is, we share it beyond our school building to make sure they can get help and remain on the radar for others.”
Some families received diapers, cases of water, and basic household essentials. Others were connected to long-term assistance. Thanks to partnerships with United Way, the City of Chattanooga, and the Hamilton County Foundation, one family recently secured housing.
Brainerd students played a central role in the process, packing boxes, carrying supplies, and loading cars for families who arrived for donations.
“We’re helping them to understand how valuable their help is and trying to show them how much we appreciate them giving back,” Dr. Sorrells said.
The effort reinforced a core part of BHS culture: service and responsibility to others.
While the fund has proved vital during crisis, it also functions year-round to boost morale and create joy within the school. One tradition, WOW Wednesdays, recognizes students who maintain strong performance in behavior, attendance and grades with a B.A.G. Pass. The first event of this school year celebrated 200 students with outdoor games, local food trucks, crafts, karaoke, and more.
“As a Title I school, we can cover supplies and classroom basics, but we can’t always provide what keeps students and teachers motivated and excited,” Dr. Sorrells explained. “We use this fund to support incentives–things like celebrations and school swag.”
BHS is also a designated Community Forward School, meaning it not only receives wraparound supports for students but also partners with local organizations to uplift the wider neighborhood. To Dr. Sorrells, that mission is what makes the Brainerd Believers Fund so meaningful.
“To see people step up and care for families they don’t even know speaks volumes about what our community is all about,” she said. “We’re committed to continue providing support in any way we can.”
Community members who want to learn more or make a contribution can visit: