How We Work
Our approach to philanthropy is hands-on, collaborative, and grounded in equity, partnership, and a shared desire for long-term impact.
Mission & Philosophy
Joining forces for a thriving Memphis for all.
Hyde Family Foundation exists to strengthen and advance Memphis by partnering with the organizations and leaders who are expanding opportunity, advancing equity, and improving quality of life across the city. We believe lasting change happens when people work together to achieve shared community goals.
Our approach to philanthropy is rooted in collaboration and action. We are not passive funders. We work alongside our partners to understand context, support strategy, and help build the capacity needed to achieve durable impact. By aligning resources, relationships, and long-term vision, we aim to help good ideas grow into systems-level change.
Equity
We believe in a future where opportunity, prosperity, and the chance to succeed are accessible to all.
For us, that means that all Memphians — regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, zip code, health or ability status, or any other distinguishing factor — have the opportunity to participate fully and fairly in economic and civic life, to determine their own destiny, and to fulfill their potential.
We live this value through our work across all impact areas.
How We Work
Meaningful change requires more than funding alone. Our work is grounded in long-term partnership, shared accountability, and a commitment to learning alongside the partners we support and the communities we serve.
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Hands-On Partnership
We work to be true partners with our grantees by offering access to capacity-building resources, leveraging our convening power, and working together to achieve shared goals.
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Long-Term, Place-Based
We focus on sustaining change in Memphis by supporting efforts that strengthen systems, neighborhoods, and people over time, rather than short-term outcomes.
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Collaboration Across Sectors
We help connect nonprofits, public institutions, philanthropy, and community leaders to align resources and scale impact.
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Ongoing Learning and Evolution
We continuously assess what’s working, listen to community feedback, and adapt our approach to improve outcomes and deepen impact.
What Success Looks Like
A thriving, unified Memphis for all.
Our North Star is a Memphis where opportunity is widespread, where communities have the resources and leadership to shape their own futures, and where systems work together to advance equity and shared prosperity.
Desired Results
Stronger Community Leadership
Local leaders and organizations have the capacity, trust, and influence to drive change rooted in community priorities.
More Connected Systems
Public, private, and nonprofit partners collaborate across sectors to address complex challenges more effectively.
Expanded Access to Opportunity
More Memphians can access quality education, vibrant public spaces, and pathways to economic stability.
Durable, Equitable Outcomes
Investments lead to lasting improvements that reduce disparities and improve quality of life across neighborhoods.
Impact Areas
We pursue this work through focused, long-term investments across four interconnected impact areas. Each reflects where we believe partnership and sustained commitment can drive the greatest opportunity for Memphis.
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Arts & Culture
Supporting creative institutions that reflect and strengthen Memphis.
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Education
Expanding access to high-quality learning and leadership pathways.
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Leadership & Civic Pride
Advancing leaders and institutions that shape Memphis’s future.
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Neighborhoods & Public Spaces
Investing in places that connect communities and opportunity.