Community
Artspace in Memphis
River City Rising
At the groundbreaking of Memphis' first affordable housing for artists, a six-year-old's joy in playing freely mirrored the larger mission: creating spaces where creativity thrives, free from the burdens of financial strain.
Building a Capacity for Resilience
Executive Speakers Bureau
Resilience is built through patience, perspective, and perseverance—embracing setbacks, leaning on others, and finding strength in laughter and risk.
Crosstown Concourse: What's in a Name?
River City Rising
At the grand opening of Crosstown Concourse, I reflected on the power of remembering names and how they connect us to stories, people, and dreams reborn.
Enough
A year of relentless pain and heartbreak, but through fear and anguish, the call for change must rise: enough.
Good Grief: A Documentary
River City Rising
Part two of River City Rising's series on the Indie Memphis Film Festival highlights Good Grief, a powerful documentary about resilience and hope amidst unimaginable loss, capturing the transformative work of Memphis’ Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief.
Grit, Grind, Give
River City Rising
Jaclyn Suffel’s Grit.Grind.Give campaign transforms #GivingTuesday in Memphis into a month-long movement, celebrating the city’s generosity and personal approach to giving back.
HarborTown Fitness
River City Rising
"Behind every local business lies a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose—HarborTown Fitness embodies this spirit as Kelly Davis turns a lifelong dream into a vibrant community hub for health and wellness in Memphis."
In Service of Others
River City Rising
True connection lies in recognizing and honoring the people who quietly enrich our daily lives with their service and presence.
Shelby County PALs launch
River City Rising
The Memphis Shelby Police Activities League (PAL) is bridging the gap between law enforcement and youth by providing over 7,000 children with safe spaces, mentorship, and enriching activities that transform boredom into opportunities for growth, trust, and community.
Mid-South Mission of Mercy
River City Rising
Transforming lives one smile at a time: the Mid-South Mission of Mercy's two-day dental clinic provided over $1,000,000 in free care to those in need, powered by nearly 2,000 volunteers who "do what is right to do."
National Night Out
River City Rising
"Amidst the noise of our world, there is profound power in shared stillness—moments where silence speaks volumes and hearts connect beyond words."
Operation Feed
River City Rising
"Operation Feed unites individuals and organizations to fight hunger in the Mid-South, providing over 10,000 meals this year to food-insecure households."
Rainbows and Hope
River City Rising
Rainbow Lake Playground and St. Jude embody Memphis' unique spirit of diversity, unity, and hope, reminding us that collective goodness thrives where communities come together.
The Neighborhood History Project
River City Rising
The Neighborhood History Project unites Memphis youth and elders to uncover and celebrate the city’s rich history, fostering pride, leadership, and lasting community connections.
Roxie's 365
River City Rising
Roxie’s Uptown Burger isn’t just a meal; it’s a story of family, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of a father, son, and community to keep a dream alive—365 days a year.
Silent Laborers
River City Rising
In the midst of devastation, the selfless acts of silent laborers, like the bakers of El Bolillo Bakery and our unseen janitors and farmers, remind us of the quiet strength and love that sustain our communities.
Six States of BBQ
River City Rising
Through a road trip across six states, exploring barbecue taught us not just about food, but life lessons on success, kindness, community, and the comforts of home.
Spooky Science Spectacular
River City Rising
The Spooky Science Spectacular, a free, inclusive Halloween event designed for children with autism and their families, combines sensory-friendly activities, costumes, and community connection to ensure every child can enjoy the holiday in a welcoming environment.
The Gift of 24 Hours
River City Rising
Reflecting on how 24 hours can transform lives, from personal sabbaticals to hurricanes and a child's selfless act of kindness, I am reminded of the profound gift of time.
MempHistory: The Pinch
River City Rising
Rooted in strength and rich with history, Memphis' Pinch District stands poised for a hopeful revival, blending its immigrant legacy with visions for a vibrant future.
Stone of Hope
River City Rising
Amidst sorrow and chaos, a visit to Clayborn Temple reminded me of humanity’s resilience, the power of faith, and the enduring hope that joy can follow even the darkest nights.