OGOR MEMPHIS

Our Grass
Our Roots

The mission of OGOR is to provide resources and increase awareness to all North Memphis community members by collaboratively amplifying their voices for neighborhood improvement through education and advocacy.

Our Grass Our Roots

Welcome from OGOR Founder!

Hello and welcome to OGOR: Our Grass Our Roots!

We are a 501c3 nonprofit group of residents, neighborhood stakeholders and citywide supporters that are committed to making a positive change in North Memphis, TN by addressing the systemic issues of disenfranchisement of North Memphis through proactive endeavors and cultural changes.

Too many of our residents dwell in the cycle of preventable neighborhood conditions such as gentrification, miseducation, and poverty. These conditions affect their quality of life but can be modified or prevented by neighborhood engagement to create comprehensive solutions that turn into good habits.

North Memphis residents typically do not have much access to the resources or information and support to fully transform the neighborhood. However, the primary resources are within the community!

That’s where OGOR comes in! We help the neighborhood engage and become empowered with knowledge, skills, and resources that impact their livelihood and uplift their quality of life.

It takes a lot of hard work and a great group of dedicated people to get it done. That’s where you as a volunteer come in! Consider yourself the backbone of OGOR and the force that brings our mission to make North Memphis a better place a reality. We cannot do this without you! So give yourself a congratulatory pat on the back, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a positive change for a better North Memphis.

Ever grateful for your time, energy and support,
Michalyn Easter-Thomas
OGOR Founder and Director

What We Do

We have many goal-aligned efforts and initiatives, such as our North Memphis Think Tank series, Being Black in College workshop, and community advocacy efforts. In addition, we have a strong network of partnerships, supporters, and collaborative groups.

Why We Do It

Our Grass Our Roots is not just trying to revitalize the economy, but we are aiming to transform the culture and the mindset of North Memphis. If this is not done, North Memphis will meet its demise through excess gentrification, citizen displacement, and self-destruction.

How We Work

OGOR does not overlap any action. We primarily focus on assisting and supporting other North Memphis efforts. This includes helping those initiatives become more successful and innovative through efficacy, publication, participation, and effective outreach.

More About Us

What is OGOR?

We are a grassroots, non-profit movement to assist in transforming North Memphis neighborhoods into areas that are:
– economically sustainable
– community focused 
– culturally vibrant 
 
Our efforts involve the community and structures already present, and nurtures the individuals who are committed to the progression of their neighborhood.

Our Goals

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To recreate a thriving economy in North Memphis where all basic needs and wants can be met within the neighborhood.

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To increase home ownership in order to boost the neighborhood’s property value and better the overall appearance of North Memphis.

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To foster commitments to education, health, and safety by all invested residents and stakeholders of North Memphis.

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To encourage all youth to maintain the mission, goals, and advancements for North Memphis.

Volunteering

Ways to Volunteer

The importance of our volunteers is increased as OGOR grows out of and expands its boundaries to embrace the entire North Memphis and surrounding communities. We encourage all ages and backgrounds to bring their energy and particular skillsets to the table. Get to know us and let us get to know you and we can make positive change to the North Memphis community.

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Neighborhood Walks & Other Events

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Community Partner Liaison

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Virtual Intern

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Street Team

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Volunteer Co-Coordinator (virtual & physical)

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Event Co-Coordinator (virtual & physical)