Talent attraction, development, activation and retention are fundamental to the success of Memphis and the Mid-South. Of those four, local nonprofit, New Memphis, is focused on serving as a catalyst for three: the development, activation and retention of talent to benefit our community. Through a wide variety of program and events, connecting with newcomers and providing immersive leadership development geared toward different ages and levels of experience, from college students to corporate executives, New Memphis has been cultivating Memphis’ talent for the past 40 years. Recognizing that during these unprecedented times Memphis needs strong leaders more than ever, New Memphis has adapted by converting their in-person programming to a virtual model. In utilizing its vast network of alumni, the organization has discovered new ways to remain connected while still supporting their fellow nonprofits, as well as local businesses unlike ever before.
One point of connection that began as a way to introduce newcomers to the city, which has now become an annual favorite for native Memphians, is New Memphis’ annual Exposure event presented by Independent Bank. As a result of COVID-19, Exposure will look a little different this year. New Memphis will be hosting it as a virtual event and allowing everyone to participate in the comfort and safety of their home. In keeping with tradition, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with more than 100 organizations that are ready to connect them to volunteer opportunities, events, social groups, arts and culture, sports teams, and more! If all of this seems overwhelming, a survey can be filled out online in advance to help guide and connect you to organizations based on your interests.
Exposure is annually held on September 1, also known as 901 Day. Throughout the day and leading up to the event, New Memphis’ team will be broadcasting via their social media channels from beloved spots around the city. Exposure’s virtual expo will take place from 4:00-7:00 pm. During the expo, attendees will be able to stop by participating organizations’ virtual booths and can access a live chat feature to connect further. For those who’ve attended Exposure in the past and enjoyed the live performances, don’t worry, they’ll be incorporated into the virtual event. Along with these crowd favorites, Exposure attendees can expect some new components to the program such as Exposure’s Game Board. Once completed, guests can post their Game Board on social media and enter to win $500 for themselves and another $500 for their favorite participating nonprofit.
While there will be lots of fun and games to be enjoyed, the goal of Exposure is to celebrate our city while creating connections between individuals and many of the organizations that make our community special. “We’ve had a lot of attendees who have been to this event and they’re always impressed with the energy in the room. It energizes you, and it makes you feel so excited about everything that Memphis has to offer. On top of that, they’re astounded by what everyone is doing to elevate the city” remarks New Memphis’ Community Engagement Manager, Nora Murray. Individual and organization online registration is now live for this year’s event at www.exposurememphis.com. Those who register before September 1, 2020 will get access to a virtual swag bag filled with discounts and lots of freebies. Then, on September 1, New Memphis will be inviting us to share what we love about our city on social media and to tag @thenewmemphis and use the hashtags #901Day and #Exposure to follow the conversation, as well.
