Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and as the organization looks back on its incredible journey, one name stands out as a shining example of dedication and service – Scott McFarland. A current MAM MVP (monthly donor) and former board member, Scott’s involvement with MAM goes back to the mid-2000s when his family’s involvement with the Greenlaw community in Uptown laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.
Scott McFarland & his family on a recent vacation.
Scott’s personal investment in MAM over the years has been multifaceted – from volunteering to serving on the board and making generous contributions. In addition to supporting the organization’s operating budget, he has also supported initiatives that sent kids to local summer camps and even Honduras. He also helped contribute to scholarships for MAM staff to attend discipleship training programs. He views giving as a commandment from the Bible, and his family’s actions reflect their core beliefs – demonstrating love through tangible, God-honoring actions.
Scott and his family didn’t limit their involvement to monetary contributions; they took a hands-on approach. In a display of unwavering commitment, they welcomed MAM youth into their home, organized camping trips, and conducted Bible studies with youth. Scott channeled his passion for skateboarding into a unique avenue for ministry, setting up skate ramps at MAM Greenlaw and teaching kids to skateboard while sharing the gospel with them. Scott’s philosophy was simple yet profound: “Kids will do anything you expose them to.” By introducing MAM youth to skateboarding and offering them experiences they may not have encountered otherwise, he opened up new horizons for these young individuals.
Scott taught youth how to skateboard while building relationships and sharing the gospel with them.
Scott’s involvement with MAM is truly a whole-family approach. His own children grew up attending MAM programs and built lasting friendships with other MAM participants. This intermingling of lives and backgrounds provided valuable exposure to the McFarland family, shaping their values and, reciprocally, the experiences and perspectives of youth at MAM.
Scott served on the board of directors for a considerable period and continues to maintain connections with MAM youth he knew from the early 2000s. His ongoing engagement underscores his belief in the lasting impact MAM can have on young lives.
Scott believes that MAM provides a unique local opportunity to serve God and love people. It offers a platform to make a difference, guided by individuals who are deeply invested in the community. MAM’s approach is intentional, focusing on disciple-making and leading people to Jesus. Furthermore, Scott emphasizes the importance of passing on these values to the next generation. His children continue to lead lives of service, influenced by the principles of love, giving, and action that they’ve witnessed in their family’s involvement with MAM.
In a world where actions speak louder than words, Scott McFarland is a testament to the transformative power of commitment and community service. His story serves as an inspiration to everyone who seeks to make a lasting impact in their own community, one that reflects the love and values they hold dear.
Join us in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Memphis Athletic Ministries by becoming a monthly donor, or a MAM MVP! For just $25 a month, you can help us continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment for youth to experience Gospel-centered sports and afterschool programming. Your monthly donation will make a significant impact on our ministry, allowing us to provide even more opportunities to coach, grow, and lead the youth of Memphis.
Click the image above to become a MAM MVP today and join a team of individuals who are making an impact in the lives of our youth and ultimately in the city of Memphis!
