Our Mission
To strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve through support of philanthropic initiatives.
Our Story
Since 1985, the Community Foundation of West Tennessee has served as a catalyst for positive change across the West Tennessee region. What began as a vision to support local causes has grown into a trusted resource for donors, nonprofits, and community leaders alike.
For more than four decades, we’ve helped enhance quality of life throughout West Tennessee by investing in programs that support education, healthcare, the arts, and essential community services. Today, our reach spans all 20 counties we serve, from Jackson to our most rural communities, ensuring that every corner of our region has the opportunity to thrive.
Through thoughtful giving and strong partnerships, we continue to build a legacy of impact that will benefit generations to come.
Our Team
Our staff brings expertise in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement, working closely with donors and partners to turn generosity into lasting impact.
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Melissa Spurgeon
Chief Executive Officer
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Taylor Risley
Chief Financial Officer
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Haley Fortune
Director of Community Engagement
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Kaycee Bailey
Accounting Services Manager
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Kaylee Cooke
Donor Services Associate
Board of Trustees
Our Board of Trustees, composed of respected leaders from across West Tennessee, provides strategic guidance and oversight to ensure that every decision reflects our mission, values, and commitment to responsible, community-focused stewardship.
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Greg Alexander
Chair
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Jay Satterfield
Vice Chair
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Dr. Tim Crossett
Secretary
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Bobby Walden
Treasurer
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Jeb Campbell
Immediate Past Chair
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Kathy Watts
Allocations Committee Chair
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Bill White
Finance Committee Chair
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Darren Lykes
Nominations Committee Chair
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Derrick Britt
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Hal Crocker
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Dr. Sandra Dee
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Dr. Lolly Eldridge
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Alyson Fite
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Brittany Broach Harris
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Lynne Henning
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Dr. Marlon King
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Andrew Long
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Tina Mercer
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Brittney North
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Dr. Brad Priester
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Lauren "LOLO" Pritchard
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Joseph Robinson
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Dr. Darlette Samuels
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Martin Williams
Chapters
Our local chapters expand the Community Foundation’s impact by addressing the unique needs of communities across West Tennessee. Led by local advisory boards, each chapter identifies priorities, raises funds, and awards grants, combining local insight with the resources and support of a larger organization.
Humboldt
Milan
North Gibson County
Accreditations
We are committed to the highest standards of accountability and transparency, earning the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. This is the highest level of nonprofit recognition. It reflects our dedication to openly sharing our financials, leadership, and impact, giving donors and partners confidence that every gift is managed with care and purpose.