On May 4, 2003, Jackson was devastated by an F4 tornado that resulted in fatalities and immense property damage in the area. Although the impacts of the storm were immediate, our community knew that long-term recovery efforts were needed. In response, the Community Foundation channeled community donations into its Disaster Relief Fund, a special fund dedicated to aiding members of the community after a disaster.
With ongoing recovery in the city, the Community Foundation organized a concert in August 2003 to raise funds for victims. The Storm Aid Concert brought together 6,000 people to hear performances by Vince Gill, Amy Grant, and Darryl Worley and raised $600,000 to support our friends and neighbors in rebuilding.
"Our organization is proud to be a conduit for the generosity of our community. Seeing the direct impact of the disaster relief funds on those who have lost so much reinforces our commitment to serving West Tennessee, not just in times of prosperity, but especially in times of need," said Dr. Frank McMeen, President for the Community Foundation.
The Community Foundation continues to be a partner for the region during disasters through its Disaster Relief Fund. This fund was created in response to the 1999 tornados that severely impacted Madison County and is activated during catastrophic times of need. To learn more about our disaster relief support, contact us at info@cfwtn.org.
We are celebrating 40 years of impact! Checkout our 40th anniversary page to see more stories of impact from the last four decades.
References:
National Weather Service Forecast Office, Memphis Tennessee
Article Link: https://www.weather.gov/media/meg/research/Final_Paper.pdf
A vital piece of our mission at the Community Foundation of West Tennessee is the annual funds we provide to assist individuals in need. In 2023, a grant from our organization helped pay the remaining balance for Caleb Beebe's service dog, Brody.
Learn More Learn MoreAfter an F4 tornado devastated Jackson in May 2003, the Community Foundation organized the Storm Aid Concert, featuring Amy Grant, Vince Gill, and Darryl Worley. These fundraising efforts brought in $600,000 to help with disaster relief for our friends and neighbors.
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Our first three endowments were established in 1987 - Georgia Wilson Endowment, Dr. Chester Jones Endowment, and Joe Hamilton Heart Center Endowment. Read the original article from 1987.
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