Flashing back to the year of 1989, Anita Baker was singing “Giving You the Best That I Got,” and we here at The Memphis Challenge were preparing to do just that.

We certainly hope you’ll agree that we have given the very best programming, designed to enrich the best students Memphis has to offer. Looking over the years, our successful graduates and matriculation rates, The Memphis Challenge is truly among the best that we’ve got!

Our new world of living with COVID, has required us to reinvient the ways we connect and engage with our Memphis Challenge family. It’s a hybrid world where the youth need reassurance and guidance more than ever. These young emerging leaders need to know that their thoughts, opinions and feelings are relevant and that they are heard. They need The Memphis Challenge, their safe space.

Founded in 1989 by philanthropist J.R. “Pitt” Hyde, The Memphis Challenge has mentored and provided professional development programming to more than 3000 students in its three decades of service. Therefore, 1989 is significant and symbolic for everyone who has ever benefitted from the creative and effective programs presented by Memphis Challenge.

Join the 1989 Society to reimagine and fund our programs for maximum impact and effective delivery during and immediately after this pandemic.

The societal effects of this pandemic will be studied for years to come and we cannot now know the ripples that will result from cancellations and changes in life-long plans. The 1989 Society supported by alums, collegiates, parents, and friends of MC, will fund critical and comprehensive programming to assist in coping with the stress and anxiety our youth are experiencing.

We hope you will commit and enroll today to enhancing our programming and impact as we continue to inspire and develop future Memphis leaders.