Sissy and Doug Carpenter

Why were you interested in GIVE 365?

We have made the choice to live in Memphis and are invested in the community. We see GIVE 365 as a way to join others who feel the same way. Instead of criticizing the city we want to pull together to support the community in a positive and productive way.

Over the years we have been supporters of Memphis in many ways, one being contributions to nonprofits. From homeless to arts, we have supported a wide range of organizations that we believe benefit Memphians. However, this one was unique in that it provided an entry-level opportunity for people to essentially double their money with the matching component, but more importantly provide an opportunity to work as a group to decide the distribution of funds.

Organizations and their needs will be communicated to the group and as a group we will elect where to donate the funds. In many ways it will act as many family foundations do; in this case the family is made up of Memphians.  

Did you know you were the first to donate?

We found out after the fact, but took some satisfaction out of quickly recognizing the value of the new program and deciding to participate. 

What organizations or causes would you like to see supported?

Sissy’s background in education leads us to issues that can help empower our youth with knowledge.

We are probably less concerned about a specific organization as would be motivated by a well-thought-out plan and presentation where we could see that the funds would have a measurable impact.  

What are you anticipating to learn through this effort?

We are very interested in seeing how this particular group of Memphians works together as a team to make decisions that impact our community. 

We are also interested to learn about new efforts in the city and to have the opportunity to hear their stories and hopefully find places where our collective donation can have a measurable impact. 

What else?

Although Sissy has been a Memphian since birth and Doug moved here in his early teens, we are definitely Memphians By Choice and excited about our future.