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»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis

Memphis has a history of people standing up for what’s right. This is a city full of people committed to getting things done and has opportunities to both welcome and keep young professionals working in the city.

Serving in Memphis

While Memphis is known for its music, soul, BBQ and thriving culture, more than 79% of students are economically disadvantaged and Memphis proficiency rates fall below the Tennessee state averages. We work hard to prepare our AmeriCorps members help students stay on track.

I was looking for an opportunity where I could give back and tangibly see the impact of my service. I know that the most selfless thing I can do is pour into others the way that I have been poured into.

Devonte Woodson »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis, ‘19

Your corps experience

City Year is a key partner to Shelby County Schools, Frayser Community Schools and Believe Memphis Academy in creating equitable learning opportunities for all students and developing the city’s future leaders. AmeriCorps members support teachers and staff in delivering instruction that serves the development of the whole child and is responsive to the diverse racial, cultural and linguistic needs of Memphis youth.

With more than 76% of students tutored by AmeriCorps members last year improving their test scores, AmeriCorps members are truly making an impact. A close-knit community with ample opportunities to develop meaningful personal and professional relationships, Memphis is an ideal place to serve. By engaging students, families and community organizations, »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis helps Shelby County, Frayser Community Schools and Believe Memphis Academy achieve preparation for success in learning, leadership and life through early intervention and support in Whole School initiatives with focus in areas of attendance, behavior, math and English language arts.

Serving in Memphis schools

  • Serve in one of six elementary and middle schools throughout the Memphis area
  • Work with a committed and diverse group of 6–10 »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ AmeriCorps members who share your passion for service and personal growth
  • More than 79% of students are economically disadvantaged and Memphis’ proficiency rates fall below the Tennessee state average: elementary and middle schools as a group, 40.4% of students were proficient or advanced in math and 32.6% were proficient or advanced in reading. We work hard to ensure that our AmeriCorps members help students get back on track to graduate on time

Here’s what we do to help students stay on track to graduate:

  • Attendance monitoring and engagement: Roadblocks, like lack of transportation and family challenges, make it hard for some students to get to school. That’s why we keep an eye on attendance. This involves everything from talking with students about their challenges to simple gestures such as greeting them on their way into school. And when they aren’t there on time, we’ll make phone calls home.
  • Social-emotional support: We act as role models both through example and positive coaching. If students are having a hard time, we pull them aside and address their concerns, transforming their experience into a positive one.
  • Support in math and English language arts: We work closely with teachers to identify learning gaps and help differentiate instruction through one-on-one tutoring for students who need it most. We also create after-school programs that help students succeed in math and English to stay on track and graduate with their peers.

Professional development

Through our »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis partnership with Starbucks we offer a variety of career development trainings for corps members and students, along with job opportunities at local Starbucks stores.

Community involvement

  • Create a positive climate of high expectations and engagement that ripples throughout the greater Memphis community, other aspects of community involvement not covered on partner page.
  • »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis is a proud partner of Choose901, a Memphis-based community organization that supports the work and service of local non-profit organizations in the greater Memphis area.
  • »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis invites members of our community to engage and participate in our service projects throughout the city.
  • As a proud partner of the MENTOR Memphis Grizzlies program, »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis works to recruit and place individuals interested in mentoring opportunities in our school sites.

Our stories

The Corps

Living and working in Memphis can be a great option for young people, from affordable housing and a vibrant culture...

Read more about Top Reasons Why You’ll Love Living and Working In Memphis
The Corps

Fernecia Humphrey, »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis ‘23, decided she wanted a second year of service with »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ after the 2022-2023...

Read more about Why Serving With »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ Memphis Could Be A Great Next Step
Benefits & Resources

From the desk of Dr. Catherine Cushinberry: Many of us were thrown for a loop a few weeks ago when...

Read more about Business as Unusual? Yes, Please!

Connect with us to learn more or apply today!

Over the last few years we have built a robust relationship with Memphis Public Schools, teachers, families and the community at large. We can’t wait to welcome you.

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»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ San Antonio's Circle of Champions
Our impact

This year, 45 »ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ AmeriCorps members will support over 2,500 students in six Memphis schools.

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Events

Every year we hold events to celebrate our corps, students and community at large.

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Partners

Our amazing education and corporate partners help make our work in Memphis possible.

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National Strategic Partners
National Partners