MIFA’s Something Good in Memphis campaign is designed to celebrate those who make Memphis better, whether it’s the stranger who helps change your flat tire in the rain or a human services pioneer who changes the lives of a hundred poor Memphians. Sometimes people tend to focus on the bad and forget the good, but we see reminders of the good in Memphis every day!
Nominating is quick and easy – just fill out our simple form! Nominate friends, neighbors,and colleagues whose daily efforts or remarkable deeds embody the spirit of positive action in our community.Thank you for being a part of the good in Memphis!
MIFA's mission is to change the community by helping change lives through programs which sustain the independence of seniors, stabilize and transform families in crisis, and equip urban teens for success. Learn more about MIFA.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Chey Widdop is most definitely Something Good in Memphis. She has volunteered full-time for the past year and a half as the leader of the Junior League of Memphis. She gives her time, day and night, to make sure this organization runs smoothly, raises money, and impacts the community. Way to go Chey! You truly exemplify Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Amy Beth Dudley.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Joann Self Selvidge is Something Good in Memphis. Her inspiring work through True Story Pictures makes our community better. Her Arts Interviews Series preserves the memories of special members of our area arts community, and gives us all a richer picture of Memphis. Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Lynda Smith is a volunteer leader with the Germantown Charity Horse Show. She served as its President last summer and the summer before. In this role she donated hours of her time to make sure that the event was its usual best. She is a true asset to the horse show organization and our community. She works with the steady enthusiasm that comes from a person who has a true passion for what they are doing. The Germantown Charity Horse Show is a fully volunteer driven organization that donates its...
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ronald Herd is Something Good in Memphis. He has a passion for preserving African American History and helping those who don't have a voice. He has been instrumental in bring Jimmie Lunceford back to life. by starting the first annual festival in his name, recognizing his birthday, and creating a blog site for information on Mr. Lunceford.
He has also made an impact on gathering other musicians. His first book, James Reese Europe: Jazz Lieutenant was named to The Smithsonian Institute's...
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Kevin Brumfield is Something Good in Memphis. After one visit to Sneak Peek Memphis, Kevin's clothing store, Jordan Mykleby wrote "I honestly don't think you know guys know exactly what you are doing for people. You guys are inspiring every one that steps a toe in your door." Beyond a clothing store, with Kevin's vision, Sneak Peek has become a safe haven and a hub for a youthful creative community. The store has hosted Memphis Mayoral Candidate talks to engage 18-30 year olds in politics...
Monday, September 28, 2009
Jean is a tireless pioneer for peace and justice working in communities and with organizations to bring restorative processes in practice. She is the executive director and founder of Turning Point Partners. Jean spends her days training individuals and organizations in active listening, peace building skills, and community building practices. After losing her home in Hurricane Katrina, Jean moved to Memphis and began building a network of organizations to help with the process of healing and...
Monday, September 28, 2009
Joseph Jaffe is Something Good in Memphis and DeSoto County. He is a dedicated reserve officer for DeSoto County's Sheriff's Department for the last several years, helping keep our community safe. He is always willing to help someone who is in a bind. A couple months ago, he stopped on the side of Interstate 240 to help a woman whose car engine caught on fire. He doused the flames before the fire department arrived then went back to work! He is always helping people, and never expects anything...
Monday, September 28, 2009
Brian Elder and Jay Young are Something Good in Memphis. They are always there to try to help someone in need. If you call them with a problem they do everything possible to help you. Nominated by Ken Johnson.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Missy Womack has been a loyal CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer September 2007. She is diligent in her investigation of cases and her promoting of CASA and the agency's mission. She also aspires to a teacher and work with elementary students. She is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Chinita Moore.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Beverly has two organizations that recognize people around us that are often overlooked. Those Who Labor Among Us honors people in our community in the childcare, care-giving, food service and janitorial/building support professions. She also has an organization that honors women in our community who have lived for over 80 years. She has made a difference in the lives of many that otherwise might be overlooked. Beverly Watkins is truly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Pamela Marshall.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Whether she is at work or helping out in her free time Dana Davis is Something Good in Memphis. Dana spends her weekdays traveling for ALSAC. In her role as a philanthropic adviser, she meets with elderly donors in several different states. She is frequently their only company for the day and spends her time talking with them about the work going on at St. Jude or anything they might want to share. During the weekend, she volunteers with the Memphis Animal Shelter. Most Saturdays she can be...
Friday, September 25, 2009
Chris Allen makes Memphis fun. Chris is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jane Shepard.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Josh is Something Good in Memphis. He is always willing to help out with a good cause. Thanks Josh, for supporting your community! Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Carol is the Director of the A Way Out program, which ministers to the emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual issues of women who are trying to escape the sex-for-sale industry. This program is sponsored by Citizens for Community Values, Inc. of Memphis. Carol Wiley is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jennie Brooks.
Friday, September 25, 2009
LeShundra Finley is one of the founders of UCAN, which works to strengthen young adolescents through mentoring, personal development, and education that will bring forth a positive impact in the community. Leshundra Finley is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Andria Lewis.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Mark VanLeit is Something Good in Memphis. As a former public defender and children's advocate in New Mexico, Mark's passion continues in his work as a Special Education teacher at MCS. He spends countless hours in prayer and dedication in finding just the right learning tool for each child. In addition, he serves at Bellevue Baptist Church in the Homebound ministry, visiting senior citizens and volunteers each week for a 3-year program dedicated to digitizing all of Dr. Adrian Rogers sermons. ...
Friday, September 25, 2009
Gwyn works nearly 24/7 to help connect, engage, and support young professionals in Memphis. She helps transplants and Memphis natives alike to connect to each other and to the great civic and cultural activities in our community. Her work at MPACT Memphis helps people feel like they belong here, and it helps them not only enjoy Memphis but also to make a difference here. Gwyn Fisher is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jenny Sharpe.
Friday, September 25, 2009
When not working at his day job, Eric Mathews supports entrepreneurship in Memphis by highlighting entrepreneurial activities and nurturing new tech start-ups through Launch Memphis. Eric Mathews is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jenny Sharpe.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Jenni created a place in Memphis where children on the Autism Spectrum can learn, laugh, play, and just be themselves. She is an awesome Autism Angel! Jenni Helms is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Katie Steinbrecher.
Jenni Helms is Something Good in Memphis
Jenni Helms
Friday, September 25, 2009
Chris works tirelessly at Live From Memphis to showcase unsung creative talent and to cultivate and support creativity in our great city. His work is an essential piece to our city’s growth as we work to retain and recruit talent. Christopher Reyes is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jenny Sharpe.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tommy Cox is Something Good in Memphis. When he's not serving his dental patients with care and devotion that seems all too rare in healthcare today, he's doing mission trips to bring much needed dental care to impoverished communities around the world. And he's always the first in line with a prayer or helping hand for a friend in need. Nominated by Russ Williams.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Mike Mathias is Something Good in Memphis. As packaging executive by day and a community servant by night, Mike teaches single mothers how to become financially independent at MIFA's Life Skills Institute. His service is humble, but his impact is great. Nominated by Russ Williams.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Paul gives so much of his time to promote healthy living here in Memphis. For the last 20+ years on Tuesday nights at the U of M track he has lead track workouts for all type of runners who want to try and run their first 5k or their first marathon. He ask for nothing in return, and anyone with a pair of shoes can join in. Paul Sax devotes so much to help people achieve their potential and accomplish goals that might not have been possible without his help. He also is the Director of the 5 Mile...
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wendy Benson is a advocate supporter of MIFA and the Memphis community. She is always giving time and resources to help others, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. She is a great and loving person in so many ways. Wendy Benson is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Erika Lewis.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Katie is a lover of all things Memphis and is an advocate for our city and its people. She is a dear disciple of Jesus and believes in racial reconciliation and the opportunities afforded by education. Katie works with Streets' Mission Graduation to encourage students to stay in school. Katie Hobson is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Abby Yandell.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Roger started a group, Binghampton Senior Watch, to assist the crossing guards in helping children cross the street safely as they go to and from school. In the afternoon he also passes out books to the neighborhood children because he wants to encourage children to read. He is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Juanita White.
Roger Bowen is Something Good in Memphis
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Karla Nitz is founder of the Spirit Girls Club in Orange Mound for girls aged 6 through 10 years. With the help of a student from U of M, Karla provides activities and Bible lessons to young girls. She has a great heart and is a great worker – she’s something good in Memphis! Nominated by Jack Everett.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Kate Langsen is Something Good in Memphis. She has been an active MIFA Meals volunteer for almost 20 years. Kate has also done a great job of getting others to serve. Her nominator (and friend) Ruth Muhs has been volunteering at MIFA for 13 years. Kate truly has a heart for service, and Memphis is much the better for it. Nominated by Ruth Muhs.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Billy Quin delivered MIFA Meals until he was almost 80 years old. He served as a volunteer for over 15 years, delivering Meals to Memphians once a week. His service and dedication make him truly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Susan Deese.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Millers, who own Midtown Taekwondo, are the very essence of the tenets of this martial art. They are helping to create a strong, confident city, by creating strong, confident individuals. Their fun yet disciplined approach to teaching is turning out Memphians who are courteous, who have integrity, who will persevere, who use self-control, and who possess an indomitable spirit. They set the bar high and help everyone to push their limits to meet those expectations. The Millers are Something...
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Jeff Nesin has made extraordinary contributions to Memphis through his leadership at the Memphis College of Art. While our community will lose something good when he moves to New York, we can be grateful for the time he was with us. Whether here or away, Jeff Nesin is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Margaret Craddock.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Jean Howard is a generous person who believes in helping others. She has served at Vollintine Church for over 30 years as a Sunday school teacher, youth leader, and superintendent, in addition to volunteering for MIFA all year round. She is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by LaSheryl Askew.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Lucia Gilliland is involved in several organizations that make Memphis a better place. She is just what Something Good in Memphis stands for, always eager to talk about the good things happening in this wonderful city and always recruiting and encouraging others to get involved. She is a champion of Memphis in many, many ways. Nominated by Margaret McLean.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Stephanie Ford is a bright, energetic young engineer who is passionate about helping others. She spends time each week teaching multi-national children how to read in English as part of the Multi-National Ministries program. Stephanie really is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Cathy VanLeit.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Rev. Marilynn Sasportas Robinson is Senior Vice-President at St. Francis Hospital, as well as founder and inspirational leader of the Sisters Fellowship, which addresses women's needs for open discussion, relying on the Bible, various Christian authors, and shared experiences for guidance and healing. Marilynn is also dedicated to improving the impoverished areas of the South Side of Memphis through community improvement efforts. Her energy and empathy are impressive, and she is the closest...
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Natalie Jalenak is a devoted Meals on Wheels volunteer, feeds newborns at the Med, and visits seniors at a nursing home weekly. She still finds time to bake the BEST chocolate chip cookies!! Natalie is truly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Judy Royal.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The expression “she'll give you her last,” was coined for Bobbie Miles. She is a retired respiratory therapist and a more than active member of Shady Grove Baptist Church. Bobbie has always been known as one who'd go out of her way to help another human being. She is a wonderful person who genuinely cares about people and never hesitates to demonstrate this by actions, not just words. Nominated by Frances Holloway.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Mary McIntosh and Barbara Jennings teach 1st through 6th graders at Idlewild Presbyterian Church the value of mission and service to the God's people in the community. For the past 10 years, these women have led Small Samaritans (1st-3rd graders) and Micah's Missionaries (4th-6th graders) in projects such as Pennies for Peace, sandwiches for the homeless, Christmas gifts for the Agua Prieta project in Mexico, and MIFA birthday bags. These children are learning that no matter their age, they can...
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Alim Khandekar is the chairman of the inter-faith group, and he and his committee were responsible for celebrating the third annual Iftar dinner on September 10, 2009. The dinner brought together Jews, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims with speeches from leaders of each group. Nominated by Mohammed Moinuddin.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Jami Langley works at Youth Villages as a counselor for one of the youth cottages. I mentor a youth there, and she is his counselor. Jami spends so much time with these children helping them overcome their problems. She is always professional and caring and is always available to me whenever I have questions or concerns. She has a big job and really does it well. Nominated by Erin Harris.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Ruth Muhs is a faithful servant to MIFA's Meals on Wheels and also to the greater community. Ruth is an active volunteer at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Cordova. Her latest endeavor is assisting with a newly-arrived family from Africa to help them adapt to their new lifestyle. I have never seen her without a smile on her face, and she rarely turns down an opportunity to make others' lives better. Nominated by Carol Rodman.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Cathy Gianella runs two philanthropic organizations. She is the founder/president of the U. Memphis "Memphis Student Lifeblood Donor Council," and she is vice president of Foundation for the Delta Zeta Chapter of Delta Gamma at Memphis. She inspired more than 300 hours of community service by her sorority sisters and gained recognition for U of M’s blood donor center. She works hard so that others may live, see, and dream big. Cathy is truly a remarkable young leader and sets an example with...
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Delvin is a former gang banger who now serves the community he once was a menace to. Delvin works at Streets Ministries in the Foote and Cleaborn Homes community, and he provides a ray of hope to high school kids at Booker T. Washington who often have very hard lives. Delvin Lane is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Rob Thompson.
Delvin Lane is Something Good in Memphis
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Dr. Khandekar has worked to bring the Muslim Society and many other denominational and community groups together to celebrate the strength of diversity in Memphis. Alim Khandekar is truly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Margaret Craddock.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Sheun Aluko is a junior at White Station High School who heads up a Chess Club for kids in the Binghampton neighborhood. They meet on Saturdays at the Caritas Village at Merton and Harvard. Sheun is involved in many activities of his own, but takes time to share his skills and gifts with the community. Sheun is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Scott Moore.
Sheun Aluko is Something Good in Memphis
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Reggie and Mary began the Orange Mound Outreach Ministry to bring Christ to the Orange Mound area. What they have actually done is give many kids and teens a place to go after school to study and a safe place to be when their parents aren't home. Through them, Memphis is being changed, one child at a time. WAY TO GO TUCKERS! Nominated by Anonymous.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Coach Pastner is a refreshing change for Memphis. He is responsive, genuine, and available, even with a hectic schedule and all the responsibilities of a new job (especially THAT job). He graciously agreed to help MIFA with an upcoming campaign despite his other commitments. Coach Pastner is definitely Something Good in Memphis! Nominated by Anna Kathryn Word.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Joe Royer is a co-owner of Outdoors, Inc. and works hard to make Memphis a more active, healthy city. He works to promote our parks, public spaces, and especially our marvelous Mississippi River, advocating to keep it clean and accessible for recreation. Joe Royer truly is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Martha Kelly.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Kerry Crawford runs the I Love Memphis blog . She is constantly showcasing the great people, places, and things around Memphis. She reminds us all that there is so much that makes Memphis a great city! Nominated by Thomas Robinson.
Kerry Crawford is Something Good in Memphis
Monday, September 21, 2009
Stuart & Ashley McCollough are parents at the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home in Bartlett, where they show children love and a normal family life with God’s help and direction. They make a difference to many children by creating a home for them, so they are something good in Memphis. Nominated by John Marr.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Brittany and David Spence are Something Good in Memphis. Their work on the Forrest Spence Fund ensures that the non-medical needs of children and their families throughout the Mid-South are met. The fund provides families of critically or chronically ill children with care baskets that include helpful supplies for their stay in the hospital. Nominated by Anna Kathryn Word.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Mr. Batey motivates his students to get out and serve the community. Between planning service days during school, driving the boys on a weekend service day, and his constant encouragement to serve the community, Mr. Batey is a great role model for the boys at MUS. Eddie Batey is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Cole Ettingoff.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Nicole Taylor gives her all in everything she does. She is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Kenyatta Collins-Bilden.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Boy Scout Troop 452 is Something Good in Memphis because they spend many, many hours working on service projects for different charities. Their efforts are an inspiration to others. Boy Scout Troop 452 is chartered by Arlington United Methodist Church. Nominated by Teresa Rector.
The scouts work on a Cell Phones for Soldiers project.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Bob Arnold is Something Good in Memphis for creating and leading Chatterbox Audio Theater and bringing free entertainment that inspires and educates to thousands! Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Martha Kelly is Something Good in Memphis - making it more beautiful through her art, giving to those in need by delivering MIFA meals, and keeping it green as President of Overton Park Friends. Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Sally Clicque has served as the volunteer team leader for MIFA's Holiday Cards program for a number of years. She makes sure that thousands of holiday cards reach their recipients during the holiday season. Thousands of people get a little extra cheer each year because of the work she does behind the scenes, and that makes her Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Megan Grinder leads the Junior League of Memphis' Urban Art House program at MIFA. She teaches art classes to children who live in MIFA Housing. These children were homeless before entering the program with their families. Megan's work cultivates a creative spirit in children, and for that, she is truly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Thomas Robinson.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Chris Cagle is something good in Memphis. He always has a smile for EVERYONE and makes a point to boost moods wherever he goes. He is a stylist at Oak Court Salon and brings cheer to me and my staff as well as his co-workers and customers all day every day! Nominated by Kat Gordon.
Friday, September 18, 2009
David Bell is an assistant federal public defender, and in his free time he compiles weekly lists of job opportunities for defendants and others at the courthouse. He helps people find jobs and meaning when they are at a crossroads. For the work he does, David is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Cindy Cates Moore.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Nina Thornton is the driving force behind MIFA's Youth Servant Leadership Oratorical Contest and mentoring project, which serves Memphis teens each year. Under her leadership, this competition has grown and seen youth push themselves to become good public speakers. Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Las and Sara Savell have been celebrating Memphians who make a difference on their sign at the corner of Union and McLean for years. These messages help Midtowners focus on the good in Memphis every day. Thank you for being Something Good in Memphis! Nominated by Linda Marks.
Friday, September 18, 2009
For serving breakfast at Calvary Episcopal Church, lunch at Door of Hope, and dinner at Friends for Life, Mary Nease is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Dot Gilbertson.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Meryl tirelessly organizes the Exxon Annuitants’ volunteer hours and grants each months. He and his loyal group of volunteers provide countless hours to the MIFA Senior Meals program every year. Meryl Broussard is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Anna Kathryn Word.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Mallory Gary was the winner of the 2009 MIFA Youth Servant Leadership Oratorical Contest. Her speech was an inspiration to everyone who heard it, and she serves as a true role model for her peers. Mallory is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Thomas Robinson.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Demie Roberts is something good in Memphis because she didn't forget the pitiful dog in Shelby Forest. The great story in the paper about her made it clear that she is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Anna Kathryn Word.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Alona Lerman brought the International Bicycle Film Festival to Memphis for the first time this year. It was an inspiring celebration of Memphis’ cycling and film communities. Alona is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Jessica Jones.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Nineteen years ago, Willa Lowry combined leftover yarn, compassion for others, and a lot of spunk to begin the MIFA Love Caps program, which has provided thousands of handmade caps and lap robes to warm lives in our community. Mrs. Lowry is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Linda Marks.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Julia Allen has demonstrated that she cares so much for her community and for those in need. For a lifetime of volunteering locally and globally, Julia Allen is Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Sally Heinz.
Friday, September 18, 2009
For more than twenty years, James Craven has been delivering Meals for
MIFA. As a longtime volunteer who serves those in need, James is
certainly Something Good in Memphis. Nominated by Thomas Robinson.