What an exciting year 2007 has been!  We began the year under the leadership of Dale Fair when Executive Director Frank Adams retired after 20 years of service to the Agency.  Mr. Fair led us in a monumental move of FTHRA’s operational headquarters to the Burlington Park building in Johnson City.  Once we unpacked the boxes and settled into our new home, we had a grand open house completely catered by our Nutrition Programs very talented Chef Bradley Humphries.   

As Chair of the Board of Directors for First Tennessee Human Resource Agency, I am proud and honored to have been a part of the many changes that have taken place within the Agency.  FTHRA has worked very hard to be THE premier delivery agent of health and human services in the eight counties we serve.  We know that everyday our NET Trans, Foster Grandparents, Child Care Food, Correctional Counseling and Safe Passage programs impact the lives of thousands of individuals and families in countless positive ways. Our services allow thousands of area seniors to remain in their homes and with their families, avoiding or delaying nursing home care thanks to our Adult Day Care, Minor Home Modification, Homemaker and Family Support programs and the thousands of meals prepared and delivered in the eight counties by our Nutrition Program for the Elderly and Disabled.  However, as much as we already accomplish, we also know that we must strategically plan to meet the challenges placed before us as the need for our limited resources grows.  Although, the demand for our services is greater than it has ever been, I am confident in FTHRA’s ability to meet this challenge head-on with both spirit and determination.  

The Board of Directors and I have enjoyed working with the remarkable staff of FTHRA.  We know it is with their hard work and true dedication to the clients that make FTHRA a success.  I will be passing the gavel to the new board chairperson, but I will continue to applaud the many successes of this Agency as they work with heart and soul to better the lives of those they touch.  

Sincerely,   

Mayor Tobie Bledsoe

Jonesborough, Tennessee