As an Episcopal priest with deep roots in Memphis, I’ve always felt a calling to serve my community. So, when I was invited to join a Community Foundation of Greater Memphis volunteer grant committee, I saw it as an opportunity to learn new things about our city (and/or to learn more about generosity and philanthropy).
As it turns out, I didn’t know quite what I was getting into. I didn’t fully grasp the magnitude of its work. Sure, I knew about the Community Foundation’s reputation as a hub, connecting donors with solutions that drive progress in the city of Memphis, but I wasn’t aware of the totality of how that happened.
Each meeting, each grant request, and each site visit opened my eyes to the incredible work being done by unsung heroes in every corner of Memphis. One of the most powerful aspects of being on this committee is the opportunity to witness firsthand the real, tangible difference that people are making in our neighbors’ lives. Whether it’s funding technology that empowers women through job training or enhancing our community’s arts and greenspaces, every grant we award has the potential to change lives for the better.
But perhaps what I cherish most about my experience on the committee is the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that pervades every meeting. When our committee meets, there is passion and laughter and debate and really good questions.
Working with this team is a regular dose of hope and an inoculation against despair.
When reflecting on my favorite committee memory, the truth is, there are too many to count. What stands out to me is the overwhelming sense of hopefulness and resilience that defines our work. In a city faced with countless challenges, seeing how many people are stepping up and stepping in to meet the vast needs is incredible.
Through my involvement with the Community Foundation’s Strengthening Nonprofits committee, I’ve discovered a renewed sense of purpose—a deep-seated belief in the power of community-driven change.
And as a lifelong Memphian, there's nothing more fulfilling than knowing that I'm playing a small part in shaping the future of the city I love.
To my fellow Memphians who share a passion for making a difference, I urge you to consider joining me on this incredible journey. Together, we can continue to build a brighter, more equitable future for Memphis—one grant at a time.
If you’re ready to be part of something truly meaningful, I encourage you to learn more about the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis and nominate yourself or someone you know to join its grant committees.
The Community Foundation is accepting nominations to its two volunteer grantmaking committees through March 29. https://www.cfgm.org/volunteer-nominations to learn more.
Guest blog by Reverend Katherine Bush
