News Summary
The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2020, highlighting initiatives that improve the lives of economically vulnerable women and families. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation adapted its focus to tackle pressing community needs, such as food insecurity and digital access. WFGM’s efforts have resulted in significant community assistance, raising funds and providing essential resources during these challenging times.
Memphis Celebrates 25 Years of Impact and Adaptation Amid COVID-19 Challenges
The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) marked its 25th anniversary in 2020, celebrating a quarter-century of initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of economically vulnerable women and families. Under the stewardship of President and CEO Ruby Bright, who has held the position for over two decades, WFGM has consistently prioritized effective philanthropy and strategic grant-making to improve community well-being.
In 2020, WFGM organized its Annual Tribute Luncheon and Symposium, which attracted over 2,000 participants and played a crucial role in raising a significant portion of its annual fundraising goal of $2.5 million. The event showcased the foundation’s commitment to addressing pressing community needs, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Responding to COVID-19
During the pandemic, WFGM swiftly shifted its focus to tackle the most urgent issues faced by the community, such as food insecurity, home stability, and the digital divide. To support these efforts, the WFGM COVID-19 Response Project provided over 500 families with essential household products, food, and hygiene kits. This initiative was implemented in partnership with Urban Strategies, Inc., which helped assess and address community needs.
In July 2020, the foundation made strides in educational support by distributing laptops and $100 gift cards to each member of the Booker T. Washington High School’s graduating class. This was part of the 38126 Digital Inclusion Plan, aimed at extending digital access to an area where over 55% of households lacked internet or computer resources.
WFGM also became a Tennessee Community Cares Grant Administrator, contributing to the distribution of part of the $150 million in coronavirus relief funds designated for community assistance. In March 2020 alone, WFGM awarded over $400,000 in grants to provide immediate relief to those affected by the pandemic.
Long-term Impact and Investment
Since its inception, WFGM has awarded more than $31 million to over 530 programs across more than 115 nonprofit organizations. The foundation emphasizes leadership development among women and continues to expand its outreach and community influence, significantly impacting the Memphis area.
WFGM’s Vision 2020 Strategic Plan was launched to combat poverty in ZIP code 38126, an area identified as one of the most impoverished in Memphis, facing a staggering poverty rate of 76% among children and 62% among adults at the time of the plan’s implementation. Investments from the foundation have resulted in measurable positive changes, including increased employment opportunities and improved financial literacy among local residents.
Diverse Leadership
The board of WFGM is notable for its cultural and professional diversity, consisting of women who arrive from various backgrounds, including entrepreneurial, executive, and philanthropic realms. This diverse representation contributes to WFGM’s holistic approach to philanthropy and community engagement.
Throughout its 25-year history, WFGM has adapted and responded to evolving community needs while remaining dedicated to its mission of improving the well-being of women and families in economically challenging situations. The foundation’s unyielding commitment to its cause reflects a tenacity captured in its core philosophy: perseverance in the face of adversity is crucial for success.
As WFGM looks forward to the future, its ongoing efforts signal a steadfast commitment to fostering lasting change and improving the lives of economically vulnerable populations in the Greater Memphis area.
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Additional Resources
- Memphis Magazine: Leading by Serving
- Wikipedia: Women’s Foundation
- Dignity Memorial: Joe Clayton Obituary
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Employers on Abortion Travel Costs
- Google Search: COVID-19 support in Memphis
