Why I Give to Give901
By Daniel McGarry
In the fall of 2002, I moved into the dorms at the University of Memphis. This was before Google Maps, before social media, but right in the middle of the era of $0.10 text messages. I had only been to Memphis once before and knew just one person—my roommate. I relied on him to show me around, connect me to the city, and help me make Memphis my home.
After three months of my mom sending me grocery money each week, we (she) decided it was time for me to get a job. I landed the perfect role for a college student—a counselor at an after-school program for Memphis city students in 3rd–8th grade. My afternoons were filled with playground games, homework help, and dominating on the basketball court with kids half my size. I was Dikembe Mutombo among an army of Muggsy Bogues-sized students.
Me at Safari Week in 2007
But it wasn’t just fun and seven-foot rim dunk contests. Every day, I helped students navigate friendships, talk through school challenges, and mediate endless debates about playground rules. Kids will spend more time arguing over the rules than playing the game—fairness is important to them.
During my 20 years in Memphis, I’ve seen that not all kids in the 901 get the same opportunities. Some struggle simply because of where they grow up. That’s why I support Give901—because I want to help build a brighter future for Memphis, starting with our students.
Why I Support Give901
Give901 ensures Memphis students have great teachers, excellent schools, and strong mentors. They provide real support to help kids succeed in school and beyond. Every dollar donated goes straight to their programs, making an immediate difference.
I believe education is the key to opportunity. When we invest in students, we strengthen our entire community. Every child who finishes high school, persists through college, and finds a great Memphis job makes our city better for everyone.
Why I Give to Memphis
Memphis is my home. I may not have been born here, but this city has become my own. I live here, I work here, and I see its incredible potential every day. But potential isn’t enough—kids need real opportunities to achieve their goals. That’s why I support Give901.
Give901 partners with schools that achieve real results. But their impact doesn’t stop there. Through the Choose901 Alumni program, students who have completed their education stay connected to Memphis, receiving career guidance, mentorship, and job placement support. This ensures that graduates have opportunities and encouragement to build their careers in Memphis.
By investing in students long after graduation, Give901 creates a cycle of success, keeping talented individuals in the city and strengthening our workforce. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real kids receiving the support they need to thrive. When we invest in education, we create a Memphis where every child has a chance to succeed, no matter their background.
Why I Believe in Memphis’ Future
Moving to a new city always comes with challenges. But over the past 20 years, I’ve come to love Memphis—its history, culture, and incredible people.
Give901 isn’t just about helping students—it’s about shaping the future of our city. It’s about creating the next generation of leaders, innovators, and community builders.
In 10, 20, or 30 years, I want Memphis to be filled with people who had access to great educators and schools, caring mentors, and the opportunities they need to succeed.
That’s why I give. That’s why I support Give901. And that’s why I believe in Memphis.
If you want to be part of something bigger—something that makes a real impact—join me in supporting Give901. Because when we help Memphis’ students, we help Memphis itself.