Written By JR Robinson

A powerful partnership exists between two community-focused organizations—Leadership Memphis and cityCURRENT. Both are dedicated to uplifting the city by connecting leaders, volunteers, and residents in meaningful ways. Recently featured on the cityCURRENT show, hosted by the passionate and engaging Jeremy C. Park, Leadership Memphis’s President and CEO Dr. Bobby White and Volunteer Memphis Director Candace Tate shared their vision, programs, and exciting plans for the future. Their conversation provides a window into the ripple effect of leadership and service, demonstrating the profound difference made when a community comes together with purpose.

Leadership Memphis: Cultivating Change Agents Since 1979

Leadership Memphis, originally founded as The Memphis Institute of Public Responsibility in 1979, has a rich legacy of developing leaders dedicated to the city’s progress and wellbeing. Over the past four decades, its programs have graduated more than 4,100 leaders who serve as “warriors” or “soldiers” of community impact. Dr. Bobby White, who stepped into his role as President and CEO in October 2024, is a native Memphian whose lifelong dedication to education and community development aligns perfectly with the organization’s mission.

Speaking with infectious enthusiasm on cityCURRENT, Dr. White shed light on how Leadership Memphis is becoming increasingly strategic about creating measurable, sustainable change. “Everyone who’s anyone in Memphis has been through Leadership Memphis,” he noted, emphasizing the organization’s role as a gateway for emerging leaders who are passionate about tackling the city’s biggest challenges—from education to equity. Dr. White’s vision focuses on growing programs, expanding alumni engagement, and strengthening networks that drive collaborative solutions.

His own story—from Fraser High School graduate to educator, coach, and founder of Frayser Community Schools, culminating in this prestigious leadership role—embodies the kind of transformational leadership Leadership Memphis nurtures. Notably, Dr. White is a Leadership Memphis Changemaker award recipient, reinforcing his deep connection to the organization’s legacy.

Volunteer Memphis: Mobilizing the Spirit of Service

An integral action initiative under Leadership Memphis, Volunteer Memphis was originally established in 1975 as the Volunteer Center of Memphis. Under the leadership of Candace Tate, Volunteer Memphis connects individuals, families, corporate teams, and community groups to more than 300 nonprofit organizations and schools throughout Memphis and Shelby County.

Candace, who recently joined the organization, brings fresh energy to the role of Director of Volunteer Memphis and Community Outreach. She shared how Volunteer Memphis not only mobilizes volunteer efforts but also creates ongoing opportunities for engagement year-round, ensuring that the spirit of service doesn’t fade after special events.

One of the cornerstone events is the MLK Days of Service, taking place this year from January 16-20, 2025. This event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a range of volunteer opportunities, including a health and wellness fair focused on community needs. Candace’s personal commitment, demonstrated by organizing service projects such as birthday volunteer events, highlights how Volunteer Memphis fosters a culture of giving back that’s accessible and impactful.

The organization also provides user-friendly tools—like a volunteer hours tracker app—and a robust platform for nonprofits to connect with potential volunteers — making it easier than ever to contribute meaningfully to the Memphis community.

cityCURRENT: Showcasing the People and Stories Powering Good

At the heart of this engaging conversation is Jeremy C. Park, CEO and host of the cityCURRENT show. Known for his dynamic and warm interviewing style, Jeremy brings attention not only to nonprofits and leaders but also to the positive stories that inspire communities. cityCURRENT is powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services, which itself is deeply invested in protecting and supporting Memphis families and businesses.

Jeremy’s role goes beyond hosting; he acts as a bridge, connecting viewers to the real-life heroes shaping Memphis’s future. His genuine enthusiasm and deep community ties set the tone for conversations that both celebrate success and invite more people to get involved.

The recent episode featuring Leadership Memphis and Volunteer Memphis exemplifies cityCURRENT’s mission—to empower the good by spotlighting leaders who are making tangible differences through service, innovation, and civic pride.

A Vision for 2025 and Beyond

Both Dr. White and Candace radiate optimism and determination when discussing what’s ahead for their organizations. With a clear focus on strategic impact, leadership cultivation, and robust community engagement, they are poised to elevate Memphis’s capacity for change.

Dr. White emphasized that the post-COVID environment presents a moment to affirm Leadership Memphis’s identity and expand its influence. He called upon alumni and the wider community to deepen their involvement—whether through class participation, volunteerism, or financial support—so together, they can make Memphis a place where everyone belongs, contributes, and thrives.

Candace echoed these sentiments, highlighting how Volunteer Memphis aims to grow volunteer participation and connect more deeply with nonprofits and alumni. She sees every individual act of service as part of a larger movement toward greater community health and unity.

How to Get Involved

For those inspired by the impactful work of Leadership Memphis and Volunteer Memphis, getting involved is straightforward. Leadership Memphis maintains a vibrant online presence, offering program information and avenues for volunteering, donating, or joining upcoming cohorts.

Volunteer Memphis’s platform is particularly accessible to all—from first-time volunteers to corporate groups—providing real-time service opportunities throughout the Mid-South region.

Together, these organizations exemplify how leadership and volunteerism can be harnessed for meaningful community transformation.

The Wrap-Up!

The collaborative stories of Leadership Memphis, Volunteer Memphis, and cityCURRENT reveal a powerful narrative about Memphis itself—one of resilience, hope, and shared responsibility. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Bobby White and the dynamic direction of Candace Tate, paired with the compelling storytelling of Jeremy C. Park, the city moves forward with confidence in its capacity to nurture leaders and mobilize citizens.

As these organizations continue to intersect and thrive, Memphis is positioned to not only sustain its legacy but also inspire other cities with its model of inclusive leadership and community service.