Why Serving With City Year Memphis Could Be A Great Next Step

Fernecia Humphrey, City Year Memphis ‘23, decided she wanted a second year of service with City Year after the 2022-2023 school year ended. So she joined City Year’s Care Force™, a Boston-based team that engages corporations and their employees in volunteer service events across the country.

We recently sat down with her to discuss her experience and how her two years of service have helped her grow professionally and personally. We also explore why Memphis is such a great place for young adults to live and work.

What made you want to serve as a City Year AmeriCorps member?

I decided to serve with my local City Year site shortly after graduating from the University of Memphis because I didn’t know what I wanted to do right away.

However, I knew I wanted to help others in some psychological or emotional capacity—perhaps a career in social work or psychology and I saw City Year as a great way to equip me with the skills and experiences to prepare me for a career in thatfield.

City Year Memphis really encouraged me to pursue my passions. I felt it was a privilege to be able to mentor others, inspire young people, and be there for someone when they least expect it or need it.

City Year AmeriCorps members serve as student success coaches—tutors, mentors and role models who partner with classroom teachers to provide students with the support they need, in the moment they need it.

I’m also from Memphis, so I knew it well and wanted to give back to my community. But for people not from here, Memphis is a great place to serve because it is a vibrant city brimming with opportunities and offers a unique, one-of-a-kind experience to enjoy!

They should look forward to some “bona fide” Southern comfort food and exploring Memphis rich history and thriving local culture.

What is the most important thing you have learned serving with CY?

The most significant thing I have learned while serving with CY is that when people come together for a shared goal, they can accomplish incredible things!

I have seen firsthand the ability to allow others to grow and develop while also honing their skills of bringing people together and making a genuine impact on people’s lives.

Why do you think more young adults should serve with City Year?

I believe more folks should consider taking a “gap year” to volunteer with CY to proactively develop themselves.

This includes continuous personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, career opportunity navigation, and networking to build relationships both within and outside of one’s organization.

What do you want to say to young people who are considering applying to City Year?

Just do it!

The most vital thing I have learned while serving with City Year is that a service year can mold, grow, and strengthen you in a multitude of beneficial ways.

I believe that performing a service year helps you get clarity about what you want out of your professional and personal life.

So, having that chance before joining the “real world”; I would urge high school kids to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to assist others!

Interested in serving with City Year? Apply now!