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OUR STORY
SEE A NEED, FILL A NEED!
Atomic Hope Heritage Preservation and Tourism Company was founded to illuminate the often-overlooked stories of those who helped shape the world in America’s Secret City—Oak Ridge, Tennessee—during the Atomic Era.
In a world where history is often told from a singular perspective, we believe in bringing to light the invaluable stories that have shaped our present and will guide our future. Recognizing the power of these narratives to inspire, we have curated interactive books, educational activities, and immersive tours to make history come alive. Join us on this journey as we explore the depth of our shared American heritage and work toward a future that honors our collective stories of hope in action.
Meet our founder, KATATRA VASQUEZ
Author/ Founder/Scientist/Curator/Mom
"Everyone has a history. What you do with it is up to you. Some repeat it. Some learn from it. The really special ones use it to help others." — John Mark Green
When my family moved to Oak Ridge, Tennessee — America’s Secret City — I was eager to connect my children to its incredible history as an innovation hub built on a massive scientific experiment that changed the world. I took them on a staycation tour, excited to share with them the magical intersection of science and history right here in our new hometown.
But at the end of our adventure, their response stopped me in my tracks. They were confused, wondering why they didn’t see many people who looked like them in the popular city spaces we explored. And when they did, the stories they heard weren’t about triumph, they were about struggle. Instead of feeling inspired, they felt disconnected, unable to see themselves or hopeful outcomes in this profound chapter of American history.
That moment changed everything.
How could my children, who love science and now called this place home, not feel a connection to a city that helped shape modern discovery? So this mama bear set out to change that. Not just for my kids, but for every child who might feel the same way.
That’s how my Atomic Hope journey began.
My mission is to uncover overlooked stories, elevate forgotten voices, and ensure every child, regardless of their background, sees themselves reflected in what I call mainstream American history. Because I believe when they do, they’ll dream bigger, reach higher, and know they, too, are an essential part of our shared American story.
MEDIA KIT
FOOTSTEPS TO FREEDOM: JOURNEY OF HOPE SELF-GUIDED EXPERIENCE
Explore a former slave market, an Underground Railroad path, a historic burial ground, and more. Discover the powerful legacy of African Americans whose resilience helped shape America's Secret City long before the Manhattan Project began. Whether it be the Eighth of August, Juneteenth, or any day in between in remembrance and jubilee, let's honor those who came before us so they will not be lost in history.
books and more
EXCITING NEW BOOK ALERT!
Making A Little Red Wagon
We’re thrilled to announce the release of Making A Little Red Wagon, the latest children’s book by award-winning author Katatra Vasquez! Making a Little Red Wagon is a heartwarming and adventurous story that shows kids the power of teamwork, problem-solving, and imagination. Inspired by real history, this engaging tale encourages children to see how their unique skills can help build something bigger than themselves to help others.
josie's hope LESSON PLAN
This lesson plan invites students to explore the unique history of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, before the World War II Manhattan Project era through the award-winning short graphic novel "Josie’s Hope: A Secret City Revealed."
Kid Approved Reviews!
I Am Brave Like Josie Workshop
See A Need, Fill A Need: An Author's Journey
Leading With Hope: History, STEM and YOU
"My favorite part was when they moved to Oak Ridge"
Leading With Hope: History, STEM and YOU
See A Need, Fill A Need: An Author's Journey
Leading With Hope: History, STEM and YOU
"A new technology for us that could help R.L. Ayers is an app..."
See A Need, Fill A Need: An Author's Journey
See A Need, Fill A Need: An Author's Journey
See A Need, Fill A Need: An Author's Journey
"Thank you for coming to read with us you are my favorite author, my favorite book is Josie's Hope, it's the best book ever..."
training
HOW HISTORY, PLACE, AND PURPOSE CAN POWER THE FUTURE
Katatra Vasquez, President of Atomic Hope Heritage Preservation & Tourism Company, shares a forward-thinking approach that explores how the often-overlooked stories of the past offer lessons that may guide its future. In this engaging talk, she introduces the ATOM Framework (All Together One Mission), a place-based approach to leadership and innovation that invites business leaders, educators, and community partners to rethink how history can shape identity, strengthen community, and foster stronger partnerships.
WHAT'S SECTION 106?
Have you ever wondered what happens before a new road, building, or pipeline project breaks ground, especially when it may impact historic places or culturally significant sites?
This beginner-friendly session introduces you to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, a powerful federal review process that ensures historic and cultural resources are considered in planning and development.
Designed for corporate teams, community members, and nonprofit leaders, this training breaks down:
- What Section 106 is and why it exists
- Who’s involved (federal agencies, Tribes, local voices, preservationists)
- How the process works from start to finish
- Real-world examples of how Section 106 protects heritage sites
- Why it matters for your projects, your community, and cultural equity
Whether you're managing development, advocating for your neighborhood, or just want to understand your rights and responsibilities, this session will give you the confidence and language to engage with federal projects and protect what matters.