MIFA has its roots in the faith community. It began with a gathering of clergy and lay leaders in 1968, during one of the most tumultuous moments in Memphis history. Members of the faith community understood the importance of joining forces to remedy the divisive atmosphere in this city. So they came together - Jewish, Christian, black, and white - to look past their differences and work toward a common goal: a better life for the people of Memphis and Shelby County.

MIFA as a trustworthy resource
We hope you will view MIFA as a branch of your congregation's outreach. MIFA offers a wealth of programs, education, and meaningful opportunities for Mid-Southerners to live out their faith.

The MIFA staff can speak to your Wednesday night dinner group about homelessness, arrange a hands-on work project for your youth, or equip you with driving directions and a cooler full of hot meals to deliver to our senior neighbors. When someone in your congregation or at your doorstep needs help due to a house fire, high medical bills, or a job layoff, you can refer him to MIFA with the assurance that he will be treated with the dignity he deserves.

MIFA and the faith community as partners
As a faith-based organization, MIFA needs the participation of congregations to preserve the foundation of its existence. Recipients of our programs know that the assistance they receive is provided by people who are eager to serve.

MIFA is strong because it is woven from rich and diverse threads of religious tradition centered on the belief  that solving human problems takes cooperation. MIFA clients, volunteers, and staff are not required to leave their faith in the parking lot - rather, they are urged to bring it inside where we can learn from each other and work together to improve this community. After all, "Inter-Faith" is our middle name!

Ways to help

Over 200 area congregations support MIFA with financial gifts. Many choose to give monthly. Financial gifts in any amount help MIFA serve seniors, children and families, and teens in our community.

MIFA knows that recent economic conditions have made it more difficult for congregations to give, but there are several ways to contribute without breaking your budget:

MIFA Representatives
MIFA Representatives are a vital link between MIFA and the faith community. The MIFA representative is that person in a congregation to whom the pastor and members look to for continuing information about MIFA programs, workshops and opportunities for involvement.

Interested in a being a MIFA Representative or appointing one? Brief training sessions are provided year-round. To make arrangements, contact Thomas Robinson at 901-529-4571 or trobinson@mifa.org

Speakers Bureau
MIFA provides speakers for congregations, groups, and classes, as well as representatives to attend mission fairs. Our experienced staff can give an overview of MIFA's services and volunteer opportunities, or we can discuss ways your congregation can address specific issues such as homelessness or the needs of the elderly. To schedule a speaker, contact Elizabeth Maynard Garrett at (901) 529-4544 or emgarrett@mifa.org