Why Memphis?

Memphis is a city with much to offer! From a wide variety of incredible restaurants to a thriving arts scene to the beloved Memphis Grizzlies, Memphis is full of fun! With fun annual events like Memphis in May and the St. Jude Marathon, it’s no wonder Memphians love their city!

But like any city, Memphis is not without its struggles. During the Memphis Fellows program, you will learn about the historic and socioeconomic reasons for some of the city’s struggles, and get to be part of the solution.

Memphis is a city that cares with a wealth of non-profit organizations that are locally focused. You will visit and learn about organizations that are making a difference in the lives of Memphians and are changing the city for the better. You will also meet key leaders who are dedicated to making Memphis look more like God’s Kingdom. Learn more on the “Serve” tab.

What Sets Us Apart

Memphis is a city with a mission. Come and invest in the city of Memphis and be an instrument of change for our city. We want to equip our Fellows to root where they are planted, embrace our city, and help make a difference. Come experience Memphis and see what your role can be. We are looking for individuals who want to serve, confront the challenges facing our city and make it a better place.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5)

Here's a small sampling of what Memphis is known for:

  • The largest urban park in the US

  • The third-ranked zoo in the country

  • Second most generous city

  • Third best location for millennials to live in the US.

  • Home to Graceland which has more than 600,000 visitors every year

  • #5 in a list of most artistic American cities

  • New developments in the city: Sears Crosstown, Highland Row at the U of M, Clayborn Temple, and Shelby Farms Park (which has 4,500 acres of parks and recreation)

  • Urban education reform is happening as people are coming to Memphis to listen, learn, and emulate the exciting things happening in our schools through MTR, TFA, and Teach901.

  • Memphis has recently received these praises: "Tastiest Town" by Southern Living, "Sweetest Water in the World," "One of the Best Cities for Pizza," "One of America’s Best Bakeries," and one of the "Best Farmers Markets in America."

For more information and things to do in Memphis, check out the following sites: