Kerry Hayes

Tell us a little about yourself.

 I work for the City of Memphis as a research analyst and policy adviser in the Mayor’s office. My background is in marketing, non-profit development, and the arts. 
 

How long have you been a Memphian?

 I’ve been a Memphian for four and a half years.

Why did you join GiVE 365?

Having worked in fundraising for years, I understand how critical it is to engage youngerand younger constituencies in philanthropy and community service. So many young people have a genuine desire to do something that will move their community forward, but don’t know how or where to get started. Give365 is an ideal strategy for bringing more young voices (and dollars!) into the conversation about how to help Memphis realize its full potential and help those in need.
 

What’s your favorite place to have lunch?

Local Gastropub downtown, with Soul Fish in Cooper-Young a very close second.

Who do you think is doing exceptional work in Memphis?

The Community Development Council is one of the city’s great unheralded assets, as they do so much to shape the policies and ideas that are making our neighborhoods stronger and more livable. With regard to arts and culture, not enough great things can be said about VINI (artspace/printmaker in the Crosstown neighborhood), Tennessee Shakespeare Company (truly excellent classic repertory theatre in Germantown) and Voices of the South (Midtown theatre company specializing in original works based on Southern literature and history).

Favorite superhero?

The Green Hornet. That dude knows how to rock a snap-brim fedora while fighting crime.