Adaptive SCUBA Chattanooga is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to experience the wonders of the underwater world.
MISSION
As a non-profit company, the mission of Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga is to provide individuals with various disabilities the opportunity to experience the freedom and therapeutic benefits of scuba diving. Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga strives to empower individuals of all abilities to explore the underwater world through its adaptive scuba diving programs.
VISION
Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga is a leader in the East Tennessee Region for removing barriers for qualified individuals with physical and mental disabilities, enabling them to discover the mobility and joy of scuba diving. This inclusive and supportive community aims to create memorable experiences that promote self-confidence, independence, and connection to the natural underwater world. By fostering a culture of accessibility, safety, and education, Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga is dedicated to breaking down barriers and promoting diversity in the sport of scuba diving
TEAM
Our team is comprised of highly trained dive professionals who take great pride in providing quality training and customer service. The owner and President of Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga is Malu Hammans, and she is partnered with Classified Diving Instructor Sherry Dagnan as Vice President and Instructor Lauren Stocke Johnson as Secretary. Morgan Kilgore is the Treasurer with his wife Cassidy Kilgore as a member at large. Honorable members at large also include James and Talia Coley, and Steve Mitchell.
In 2024, the Choo Choo Dive Team traveled to Knoxville, Tennessee to join Ski Scuba Center for adaptive scuba instructor training with Denver Divers of Denver, Colorado. Malu Hammans, Sherry Dagnan, and Lauren Stocke Johnson received their Classified Diving Instructor certification with the dream of starting a program to sponsor individuals living with disabilities so they may also experience the joys of SCUBA diving. In 2026, this dream become a reality thanks to the combined team efforts at Choo Choo Dive Center!
CONTACT US
Are you someone who has always wanted to get SCUBA certified but never had the opportunity? Or maybe you never thought you could afford it? With our adaptive SCUBA diving team of professionals, we are here to help you see that dream become a reality!
We are looking for special individuals who love the water and would be enthusiastic about being able to SCUBA dive. Applicants interested in participating in our program will need to undergo a medical evaluation and interview process with our staff prior to beginning any training.
Please reach out to us either over the phone, via email, or in person! We would love to hear from you.
DONATE
Want to donate to our cause? Any amount is appreciated!
All donations to Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga are used to provide adaptive SCUBA opportunities to individuals with various disabilities in Chattanooga and the surrounding region. 100% of all donations are used for equipment and expenses related to SCUBA dive training.
Adaptive Scuba Chattanooga is an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
We do not receive donations online. Please come by in person to make your donation.
