favorite filanthropies

MLK DAY: A Day of Service

In honor of MLK Day, I've decided to sit my butt down and write about some local organizations that deserve some blog love (blove?). I'm not here asking for money, so don't stop here--I'm just here to create some awareness. 

Here's a shout out, high-five, and love to the following organizations that make Memphis a better place. There's something here for everyone.


Accendo Media- For the musicians, artists, and supporters of arts.

Accendo Media team at #instapartymemphis

This is incredible because they provide a platform for locals to support locals. Artists and creatives of various mediums get together for a benefit show and then donate that money back to another charity. Yes, it's essentially circle of endless giving. The last event benefitted Sandy Hook victims, and although it's not a local cause, it goes to show that local love can spread all over. Are you an artist looking to show your work? Are you a musician looking to perform for peace? Do you have talent in writing, filming, or editing? Do you like art? Check them out.

Hospitality Hub-For those torn between "Here's some change" and "I have no change." We've all been there. As a midtown resident, I often walk places and when someone approaches me asking for money, I think to myself "Everyone deserves a roof over their head, clothes on their back, and food on their plate," but I can't give my money away to someone who may spend it on something else. Well, here we go. Do you part by donating directly to a source that can help. For the homeless, Hospitality Hub is place the to start, providing an information doorway to even more resources. If you have the spare change, donate here. If you don't, take a look at their wish list that includes necessities like socks, toothbrushes, and reading glasses.  

 gala & banquet for peace & justice center:
local people, local movements. #memphis @ilikefwords

Mid-South Peace & Justice Center-For those with passion on social, political, and economic injustice. I've recently been struggling with my purpose on Earth. Who am I? What am I doing? What can I do? And it's so broad that even the idea of solitude seems so far away because there's only so much that I can do. Oh, boy, was this the place to get informed. MSP&J mission: To engage, organize and mobilize communities to realize social justice through nonviolent action. This weekend, I attended their benefit dinner and I was informed of some of the issues that we struggle with on a local level. They're here to create awareness and stir some movement. Know what's going on. Be curious. Ask questions. Browse around their website and if you're so inclined, become a member. There is no minimum donation requirement.


tnAchieves-For the transitioning students, role models, mentors, and educators. "tnAchieves provides an opportunity for Tennessee public high school graduates to receive up to $3000 for community college tuition."  Y'all, this means that every single high school graduate can go to college. This one is for my talented, successful, 20's and 30-something friends who could really help a brother/sister out. There are so many of you out there who would be powerful mentors and role models for transitioning students. I remember wishing for someone to help me figure out what to do during my first semesters in college. You know that list of tips and tricks you have in your mind that you said "Man, I wish I knew that in college." Here's your chance. If you or someone you know fits the description of a mentor, browse the FAQs, send the link, and share your knowledge. They're also looking for a creative communications intern. Interested? Contact Kaci Murley at kaci(at)tnachieves.org.

Camp Good Times-For the special place in your heart for those with special needs. I've been volunteering with CGT nearly a decade. Thank you to our sponsors and donors supporting the financial growth of this camp. Thank you to the local restaurants, churches, and individuals who donate meals so that we can eat. Thank you to the volunteers and staff every year who spend their vacation time providing smiles to the biggest hearts. Join us. We're looking for donations, meals, and staff for CGT 2013. 

WANTED:  Multi-tasking, hard-working, mature individuals. Must have energy of a toddler, the patience of a turtle, and a heart of gold. If you can handle constant high-fives, cheering on the loosing team, and hugging because you have arms, join us. Looking for a way to go camping with the coolest crew this summer? Contact me. claudine.nayan(at)gmail.com.

*High school/ college students welcome for service hours. Summer camp and church groups welcome for visits. Fire dancers, jugglers, artists, and musicians welcome for performances.

Grow Memphis- For the health conscious consumers, local foodies, and urban farmers. It's a thing right now: LOCAL IS BETTER. You eat at this place because you love their one-of-a-kind burgers. You shop at the local farmer's market because they have that ridiculous rosemary bread you can't get at Kroger. You drive by a neighborhood garden and think "Ah! That's so awesome!" So here's an organization committed to the growth of this idea in Memphis, a city known for obesity and low health grades. We are changing that. Urban farming benefits our bodies, communities, and essentially, the sustainable growth of the city in its entirety. Want to get your hands dirty? Join the movement.

Be Free Revolution- For the local philanthropic, fashionable female making a global impact. I stumbled across this organization and felt immediately drawn to their mission: To Empower to Educate, To Educate to Free, To Counsel to Find Peace. It's more than just a thought in my mind, it was more like a hand to my heart. You can purchase bracelets, necklaces, watches, cuffs, and t-shirts and know exactly where it's going. Proceeds fund the BFR team's mission trips across the world, giving hands-on help to communities in Africa. Also, their instagram page is so inspiring! (@befreerevolution)

Thanks for taking the time to read. I hope I've inspired you in some way with my favorite filanthropies. Hey y'all, sharing is caring.

Cheers,

C