Established in 1982, the Memphis Bar Foundation (formerly known as the Memphis & Shelby County Bar Foundation) is the philanthropic arm of the Memphis Bar Association. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization separate from the Memphis Bar Association, although it is housed at and receives staff support from the MBA. The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors who serve a two-year term.

The mission of the Memphis Bar Foundation is to:

•           Promote philanthropy among members of the Bar;

•           Advocate and support public awareness of the legal system;

•           Promote social justice and legal education; and

•           Encourage and recognize professionalism among members of the Bar.

The Foundation fulfills its mission in several ways, including providing Grants to support important community programs and recognizing members of the Bar through the Benjamin L. Hooks Award and the selection of Fellows.

As a 501(c)(3) organization, all contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible as charitable contributions. 100% of donations received go directly to the charitable causes supported by the Foundation. Contributions should be made payable to the "Memphis Bar Foundation" and sent to the Foundation (attention: Anne Fritz) at 80 Monroe Avenue, Suite 220, Memphis, TN 38103.