Tocqueville Society

This giving society represents our most generous community-minded investors who donate at least $10,000 annually, with some members giving more than $100,000 each year.   

“We were taught from an early age that giving is essential to the well-being and success of our community. There are so many needs in Chattanooga. We are Tocqueville members because we believe United Way is best positioned to see that our donation reaches the most people with their critical needs.” 

Dori and Blake Waller

Tocqueville Society Members

Tocqueville Society Chair

Meet your 2024 Tocqueville Society Chair – Beverly Edge. Beverly currently serves as a partner at HHM CPAs as well as HHM’s Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel. We are thrilled about the energy, expertise, and leadership she will bring this year!  

“After serving on the 2023 Tocqueville Campaign Cabinet, my “why” evolved. I heard stories from people whose lives were changed by contacting United Way’s 211 helpline. I saw donations turn into grants that empowered local nonprofits. I joined efforts to advocate for policies supporting working families. Now, I see the role of Tocqueville Society members as crucial for ensuring every child can thrive and families can break the cycle of financial hardship. We are Chattanooga’s greatest investors. Our contributions inspire hope, create opportunities, and have a profound impact for generations to come.” 

Beverly Edge 

Thank You!

You are the driving force behind our work, empowering us to serve more neighbors in need every year and build deeper connections in the community. We are so grateful for each of you. Thank you for your unwavering leadership.

Your Generosity in Action

Your support for our mission of uniting people and resources in building a stronger, healthier community empowers us to show up for our neighbors every day. Together, we’re driving impact in three core areas.

211 & Direct Assistance

211 is a free and confidential helpline connecting neighbors to food, housing, employment, and more. United Way answers more than 73,000 211 requests across phone calls, texts, and emails, and provides more than $800,000 in direct assistance every year. 

Investing in Local Nonprofits

United Way supports over 70 nonprofits with over $4M through our inclusive grant model every year. Our team also provides innovative programing open to all area nonprofits to build capacity and collaborate.

Fostering Family-Friendly Workplaces

Our United for Working Families initiative arms local employers with the data and tools they need to offer family-friendly benefits, like flexibility and childcare support. 

Leave a Legacy

A rich history and profound passion for the community are hallmarks of the Tocqueville Society. Through estate planning, members can extend their impact, ensuring that their legacy supports the vital work of United Way for generations to come. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I contribute such a large annual gift to United Way when there are so many other worthy causes?

Collective giving is powerful in helping to solve our community’s greatest challenges. Your dollar works harder when it’s working together with those of other donors. A gift to United Way is put directly to work ensuring every child has the resources to thrive, and families are empowered to break the cycle of financial hardship.  

What is the cost of joining and when is my payment due?

Members of the Tocqueville Society commit to a minimum gift of $10,000 annually, though some donors choose to give $100,000 or more. Gifts pledged during the 2024 United Way campaign are payable by the end of 2025. 

Why do we use the name Alexis De Tocqueville?

Alexis de Tocqueville was a French diplomat and historian who detailed his travels in Democracy in America in the 1830s. He highlighted America’s unique culture of volunteerism and giving. The Tocqueville Society, inspired by his insights, celebrates the collaborative spirit essential for a vibrant civil society, embodying his belief in the power of collective action.

What is the value of a Tocqueville Society membership?

– Recognition as a member of the world’s largest individual giving society in the world 

– Exclusive Invites to Tocqueville Society events 

– Engagement with Greater Chattanooga’s critical business and government leaders 

– Fulfillment of collectively impacting the lives of our neighbors and future generations 

– Connection to like-minded philanthropic Tocqueville Society members 

Contact Us!

Our staff is always happy to talk with you and learn more about your charitable passions. Reach out today!