Resilience and Renewal at Historic Clayborn Temple

Learn how Historic Clayborn Temple continues its work in economic empowerment and youth leadership while rebuilding after the 2025 sanctuary fire.

Community Spotlight

Published: March 12, 2026

Resilience at Historic Clayborn Temple

Historic Clayborn Temple is a sacred Memphis landmark for whom we manage a fund at our
foundation and a recent recipient of a Responsive Grant providing unrestricted operating
support during unprecedented challenges.

Clayborn Temple is a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement and, today, home to “The Big
We,” a nonprofit that advances economic empowerment, youth leadership, and cultural
connection. Through COIN — the Cooperative Opportunity for Inclusive Neighborhoods — the organization helps launch worker-owned businesses, addressing Memphis’s racial wealth gap. Its program She-lectricity uplifts Black girls and young women with entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and culturally rooted leadership development.

Rows of beige chairs face a stage in a bright church hall with large stained glass windows, an arched ceiling, and gold and white architectural details. Audio equipment is set up near the stage.

In April 2025, an arson attack devastated the Temple’s sanctuary, causing millions in damage
and forcing an urgent pivot to rebuilding — alongside unexpected security costs. Yet even in
crisis, programs continue.

Clayborn Temple remains committed to restoration, resilience, and opportunity — ensuring this
historic site and its transformative work endure for generations. Learn more at clayborn.org.

Contribute to the Reimagine Clayborn Fund

Donations will support emergency stabilization, historic restoration, and the path toward renewal. Together, we can ensure that Clayborn’s story is not defined by tragedy, but by resilience and rebirth.

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