MIFA History II continued The Future MIFA's lodestar has always been its mission statement which, like the organization itself, is capable of changing to meet new challenges: “MIFA, Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association, a community catalyst, unites resources to address needs and develop lasting solutions, which empower people to live with independence and dignity.” The methods of reaching these goals will continually shift to accommodate changing needs-and the availability of resources. Descriptions of MIFA usually include statements that refer to MIFA people. To Gid Smith “the story of MIFA is the women who came through MIFA and developed there. MIFA gave people the opportunity to grow. MIFA alums lead the community.” Allie Prescott adds “MIFA was always able to attract people of high caliber like a magnet. It has had an incredible level of personnel-unparalleled-with amazing talent.” Among MIFA's people he includes “the people you serve, as well as those you work with. It is a special place, with a spirit that is uplifting.” Ellen Abbay believes that the “The spirit of MIFA has never changed. The people are the spirit. It is the pulse of the city. You have daily inspiration when you're there.” Caprice Snyder says that “MIFA continues to be progressive, trying to genuinely meet the needs of the community, to basically help people who 'fall between the cracks.'” Snow Morgan, former board chairperson, believes, “We all look to MIFA for our vision of what the world should be. It is such a great vehicle to give a sense of worth, value and dignity to the individual. And, MIFA is a freer of barriers than anything I've been involved in. All people are respected here. MIFA brings out the best in people.” In spite of the growth MIFA has experienced during its three decades, its strength continues to be found in its compassion for the underprivileged and in its determination to resist being “cast in concrete.” Elephants are not as swift as tigers. It is all the more worthy of note, then, that in spite of its size, MIFA remains open to new ideas and new ways of serving the community. Memphis needs such a place, often a place of last resort that can respond to situations that do not fall under the auspices of any other agency. Each Executive Director of MIFA has brought with him (or her) particular strengths, gifts and skills. Berkeley Poole's two years as Executive Director enabled the community to see the need for such an inter-faith organization while providing its supporters from numerous faiths the opportunity to know and to trust each other. Gid Smith's seventeen years at MIFA's helm (1972-1989) were marked by his extraordinary ability to take hold of a fragile organization and build it, block by block. His tenure coincided with the time when grants from the federal government were available for agencies offering services to the underpriveledged; he was able to take advantage of opportunities as they arose. Smith gave MIFA the reputation for absolute integrity that it retains today. Robert Dempsey, Co-Executive Director with Smith from 1973 until his resignation to practice law at the decade's end, brought workable strategies for dealing with both government and community leaders. They were an exciting team able together to create a firm niche for MIFA in Memphis. With Dempsey gone, in a choice typical of Smith's sensitivity and ability to surround himself with capable and caring associates, he appointed former VISTA Jeanne Tacket MIFA's first Associate Executive Director. She instilled sound program planning and management practices throughout the organization. In his eight years as Executive Director (1989-1997), Allie Prescott proved to be a great energizer whose enthusiasm convinced everyone around him that no obstacle was too great to overcome. He continued the Smith policy of empowering each employee to work independently-and well. The slogan, “A hand-up, not a hand-out” reflects the change in focus which occurred during his administration. His receptivity to new ideas and new programs eased the wheels of transition. Prescott resigned to become the first general manager of the Redbirds baseball team. Margaret Craddock became Executive Director in July 1997. A visionary leader, she is able to look forward while relying on the past. Her vast experience within MIFA has committed her to MIFA's mission to “empower people to live with independence and dignity.” A coalition builder, she has enlarged MIFA's concerns to include the quality of life in the Peabody-Vance neighborhoods supporting a collaborative that links MIFA with neighboring non-profit agencies. Among changes hoped is for the opening of an Emergency Services satellite office in South Memphis in the fall of 1998. There is a plan for the food pantries to have computers available to simplify procedures; another thrift shop is anticipated. There is on-going work in the MIFA neighborhood of Peabody-Vance to improve the area by adopting crime prevention measures. An Opportunity Bank to provide low interest loans, already begun in Emergency Services, will expand its scope. Through a new effort with the Department of Human Services, Amy Barton will train volunteers to guide and support families who are working their way off the welfare system. MIFA also plans to address another serious problem- the shortage of affordable rental housing. The Craddock years promise to be exciting and fulfilling. Throughout its existence clergymen of various faiths have often chaired MIFA's Board of directors. Lay persons, however, have taken significant roles. Phil Shannon first became acquainted with MIFA while working with Churches and Social Services in the 70s. His expertise with financial management has been extremely valuable both as he served on the Board and as its Chair. Dr. Charles Dinkins led in working toward a more diverse and harmonious City. David Williams' contributions in the legal area have long lasting implications. At a crucial juncture, when the organization was faced with growing demands for services while less government funds were available, Nancy Fulmer was the chairperson. Of this challenge, Fulmer said: “MIFA is unique, a vehicle for people of faith in Memphis to band together and really do something for people in need. Most rewarding is the way that our volunteers, staff, and clients join hands in a supportive circle. Many clients become donors or come back as volunteers when they are on their feet again. This seems to be 'community' at its best. I wish we could package that spirit. It might save the world.” Newly-installed board Chair, Allen Israel, reflects in a similar vein: “The thing that has most impressed me about MIFA, the staff, and all the people on all the boards, is the feeling and warmth for those who are served. We at MIFA believe in giving and serving with loving-kindness. This loving-kindness manifests itself in the way we go about our mission. By never losing sight of our constituents, we are able to serve them with sincerity and dignity.” Although this history of MIFA will conclude at this thirtieth year, it is only the beginning of the MIFA story. It is written as a tribute to those who made MIFA possible, and as an invitation to those who wish to be a part of its continuing growth. MIFA faces the future as a dynamic, open-ended organization whose final form cannot be predicted. While change is not always easy to manage, MIFA's flexibility is also its glory. The chances are good that the painter will have to put many new coats of paint on MIFA offices as they are rearranged to adapt to new realities and changing times. “MIFA is the place where people of faith come to live out their faith.” - Rabbi Harry Danziger