Memphians Step Up to Help Schools Damaged by Oklahoma Tornado
In the wake of the devastating May tornadoes in Moore, Oklahoma, Memphian Angela Copeland felt a personal call to action. Despite large-scale relief efforts by organizations like the Red Cross, Copeland, who hails from Moore and has held executive roles at Memphis-based companies like The ServiceMaster Co. and First Tennessee Bank, wanted to directly support the affected school district. Partnering with RedRover Sales & Marketing Strategy, Copeland has organized the Memphis to Moore fundraiser, set for June 14 at the Westin Memphis Beale Street.
The event, starting at 7 p.m., aims to raise significant funds for Moore Public Schools, which is the third largest school district in Oklahoma and serves over 21,000 students and 1,400 teachers. The tornadoes caused severe damage to more than half of the district’s 36 schools. Tickets for the fundraiser are priced at $50 in advance and $60 at the door, and can be purchased online at www.memphistomoore.org.
Key Takeaways:
- Fundraising Event: Memphis to Moore will take place on June 14 at the Westin Memphis Beale Street, with tickets available online and at the door.
- Direct Impact: Proceeds will benefit the heavily impacted Moore Public Schools, aiding over 21,000 students and 1,400 teachers.
- Community Support: The Westin has generously donated its ballroom, valet, and food, with local businesses contributing liquor, supplies, and auction items.
- Silent Auction: Includes stays at the Peabody Hotel, products from local designers, tickets to Ballet Memphis, and a special chocolate basket from Chocistry.
- Entertainment: Featuring local musician Grace Askew from NBC’s “The Voice”.
- Ambitious Goal: The event aims to raise $10,000 for the Moore Public Schools’ tornado relief efforts.
Lori Turner-Wilson, CEO of RedRover, underscores the rapid coordination of this event, typically requiring six to nine months, but driven by the urgent need and the inspiring cause. Highlighting the spirit of Memphis, Turner-Wilson noted the community’s readiness to support those in need, saying, “There are so many people here who have connections back to Moore. The spirit of Memphis may be hard for people new to the area to understand. We believe in doing things for people here.”
The Memphis to Moore fundraiser is a shining example of community solidarity and swift action in the face of disaster. This event not only aims to provide much-needed support to the Moore Public Schools but also celebrates the generous and compassionate spirit of Memphis.
Read the full article here on the Memphis Business Journal.
