As Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM) celebrates its 25th year of ministry, we are honored to share 25 stories of impact, from current students, alumni, parents, coaches, volunteers, donors, and community partners. Meet Natasha Mayton, a dedicated donor and mentor.
Originally from the Chicago area, Natasha relocated to Memphis in 2006 with her employer, FedEx. It was through FedEx that she got connected to MAM. Over a decade ago, a colleague sought professionals to assist with MAM’s career readiness program. The task was simple – facilitate a mock job interview with students involved in the program. Intrigued by an opportunity to make a difference, she eagerly sought ways to deepen her involvement with MAM’s mission.
Natasha has been actively volunteering at MAM for ten years, focusing on the career readiness program which has evolved into today’s mentoring program. The MAM mentor program combines work and life skills training to prepare high school students for success after graduation. Mentors help equip our students with skills to navigate life whether they pursue employment after graduation, join the military, or seek to further their education. Natasha’s commitment to working with students and helping them realize their potential has been a driving force behind her decade-long involvement.
One of Natasha’s favorite aspects of volunteering at MAM is the structured curriculum that allows meaningful discussions with students. Being able to witness their growth and staying connected with them has been a source of joy and fulfillment for Natasha. Furthermore, the most rewarding part of Natasha’s volunteer work is witnessing students execute their own goals and observing how they interact with others. She particularly cherishes the end-of-year program, where students interact with their mentors, reflecting on the past year, looking ahead to the future, and creating lasting memories.
For Natasha, mentoring is crucial because it lets students know that people are willing to listen and help them realize their potential. She believes that empowering the next generation is instrumental in making a positive impact on the community.
Natasha’s commitment extends beyond volunteering, as she has also been supporting MAM financially for the past ten years. Her investment in MAM’s mission is rooted in the belief that community partners can fill crucial resource gaps for students who might not otherwise have access.
According to Natasha, MAM contributes to making a better Memphis by providing a solid foundation and a safe space for students to grow. In a city with numerous nonprofits, MAM stands out for Natasha because it offers both faith-based and athletic programs, catering to communities that might lack access to such opportunities. These programs play a vital role in shaping the neighborhoods it serves.
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 give $25 for 25.
