Programs

KWFF programs honor Dorothy and Kemmons Wilson's love for Memphis and the shared commitment to their Christian faith, higher education, and impacting the lives of our youth.

The Wilson Society

Mission: To inspire a lifelong commitment to service in Memphis.

The Wilson Society is a civic leadership program at Memphis area high schools facilitated in partnership with LITE Memphis (Let’s Innovate Through Education) and Bridges, USA. Participants partner with organizations that address the critical needs of the Memphis community and develop “Impact Grant” projects to address those needs. Currently partnered with Memphis University School, Hutchison, Briarcrest, and St. Mary’s.

Wilson Scholars

Mission: To support and retain talent in Memphis.

This last-dollar scholarship program is in partnership with Memphis-based universities. KWFF hosts 2 events per year to honor scholars and provide networking opportunities.

Partners: 

Christian Brothers University – Science Scholarship

Memphis Theological Seminary – Merit Scholarship

Rhodes College – Service Scholar Scholarship

The University of Memphis Foundation– Kemmons Wilson Hospitality Scholarship 

Visible Music College – Merit Scholarship

Next Generation

Mission: To engage with and prepare the next generation of Wilson family for philanthropic leadership.

KWFF holds 4 meetings per year where members: 1) discover personal giving motivations, 2) learn of issues affecting the community, 3) learn critical thinking skills to assess root causes of community issues, 4) research organizations working to address issues, 5) learn trust-based approach to nonprofit partnership, 6) conduct a mock-board meeting where nonprofit research is shared and a grant is voted upon, and 7) carry out a site visit and service experience.