As Tellico Village continues to grow and evolve, so does the Tellico Village Residents Association (TVRA). In 2027, TVRA will mark its 38th year of serving residents, continuing a tradition of bringing people together, sharing information, encouraging civic involvement and advocating for the community’s interests.

The new TVRA membership year began Oct. 1, following a successful 2026. Membership exceeded expectations, with more than 1,700 households and 3,100 individual members supporting the organization.

In recognition of that response, TVRA is offering a 25% discount on 2027 memberships for residents who join or renew by Dec. 31, 2026.


But membership numbers tell only part of the story.

A legacy of community impact

For nearly four decades, TVRA volunteers have identified needs within Tellico Village and surrounding communities and helped turn ideas into resources and organizations.

Over the years, TVRA has played a role in establishing and supporting programs that have become part of the community, including the Public Library at Tellico Village, Stay in TV, Litter Angels and TellicoLife.

TVRA President Linda Garza said she is particularly proud of that legacy.

“I am honored to be part of an organization that has made such a lasting impact on Tellico Village. Its rich history of introducing and supporting new organizations and services for Village residents and surrounding community members is truly remarkable.”

Garza pointed to the library, Litter Angels, Stay in TV and TellicoLife as examples of volunteers turning ideas into services that benefit residents.

“Today, TVRA continues that tradition,” Garza said, “by working with and promoting nonprofit organizations within the Village — bringing greater awareness to their services, encouraging civic involvement, and helping provide financial support to further their important work.”

These accomplishments reflect one of TVRA’s longstanding strengths: residents willing to contribute their time, talents and energy to improve their community.

A name that better reflects the community

In 2025, the organization changed its name from the Tellico Village Homeowners Association to the Tellico Village Residents Association.

The change was intended to distinguish TVRA from the Tellico Village Property Owners Association (POA), the community’s governing body.

TVRA is an independent residents organization that informs, connects and represents the interests and perspectives of Tellico Village residents. While the name changed, its commitment to residents remained the same.

Today, TVRA continues to advocate for residents, provide information about issues affecting Tellico Village, facilitate communication with community leaders and encourage civic participation.

What members value about TVRA

Member surveys offer insight into what residents find most valuable about their memberships.

Members consistently cite community news shared at monthly social gatherings, guest speakers addressing topics relevant to residents and information provided through the monthly newsletter.

These programs help residents stay informed and connected while providing opportunities to learn, ask questions and engage with neighbors.

The feedback reinforces TVRA’s commitment to providing programs and information that meet residents’ needs.

Why residents volunteer

TVRA is a volunteer organization whose strength comes from residents willing to contribute their time and experience.

For many board members, volunteering is a way to give back to the community they call home.

Technology Vice President Terry T., a relatively new Tellico Village resident, said serving on the TVRA board allows him and his wife, Julie, to give back to a community that has already given them so much.

“I believe communities grow stronger when people share their time, ideas and experience,” Terry said. “Through TVRA, we can keep residents Engaged, Informed and Heard while strengthening the connections that make this community so special.”

Social Vice President Tammy F. expressed a similar sentiment.

“I decided to give it a try because I felt like it was my turn to give back to the community. This position is fun and inspirational to me. I’ve met the best people you can ask for.”

Event Planning Vice President Kathy R. said volunteering benefits both those who organize activities and those who participate.

“Planning events is a great way to give back to the community. People get to try new things and people are happy. It’s a win-win!”

For Membership Vice President Mark F., volunteering is about preserving the community residents value.

“We all have a nice place to live here. I’d like to keep it that way,” Mark said. “I think that volunteering is my way of keeping the social fabric and culture of Tellico Village friendly, fun and affordable.”

His philosophy is simple:

“If not me, who? If not now, when?”

Looking toward 2027

As TVRA prepares for its 38th year, the organization is also preparing for its next generation of volunteer leadership.

Around Oct. 25, the TVRA Nominating Committee will present its proposed 2027 board slate to the membership for a vote.

TVRA also continues to welcome residents interested in serving on the board, joining committees, assisting with events or contributing their skills and experience.

After nearly four decades, TVRA has a history worth celebrating. Its future, however, will depend on residents willing to become involved.

Residents interested in supporting an informed, engaged and connected community are encouraged to join TVRA and consider volunteering to help lead the organization into 2027 and beyond.

For more information, visit TVResidents.org, email Contact@TVResidents.org or call 865-657-1405 and leave a voicemail.