Dear Friends,

The unprecedented flood of May 2010 came with a devastating force that could have left Middle Tennessee reeling for years. This cataclysmic event put our spirits and - to a great degree - our nonprofits to the test.

But with each drop of rain that fell, someone new jumped up and joined in the hard work of recovery. Side-by-side, neighbors helped neighbors and strangers alike. Thousands of energetic volunteers rallied to support service agencies on the front lines that, in turn, lifted up our entire community.

This display of perseverance is proof positive that Middle Tennessee grows stronger every year. Our strength comes from seeds of hope planted and nurtured by dedicated nonprofits. Our belief in tomorrow comes from what we witness every day.

Children, once hungry, are being fed. Seniors, once dismissed, are valued more than ever. Addicts, once hopeless, are getting clean and giving back. Teens, once adrift, are leading the way to an ever brighter future.

The Memorial Foundation is honored to have supported local nonprofits for more than 15 years.

We also are proud to announce a historic milestone for The Memorial Foundation. When we were first established in 1994, we held $105 million in assets acquired through the sale of Nashville Memorial Hospital. As of 2010, The Memorial Foundation has awarded that same amount, $105 million, to worthy nonprofits. Further, our dedicated board has made wise investments, growing the Foundation's corpus to more than $150 million today.

This year especially, The Memorial Foundation is proud to be a part of the bounty and beauty of everyone's good work and goodwill.

J.D. Elliott
President