MIFA history

But by April 1969, the organization had raised $30,000 and hired Berkeley Poole as executive director.

Funds were depleted, and with Berkeley Poole’s resignation in 1971, all hope for MIFA’s success nearly died.

By 1974, the astronomy program had grown to a group of eight astrophysicists with diverse research interests.

Luyten's contributions to astronomy were recognized by the Bruce Medal, and he continued to publish papers well into the 1980’s.

Mid-South Food Bank was founded in November 1981 as a MIFA program.

In 1983, MIFA’s housing program for homeless families was established.

MIFA acquired the City Slickers program – now Teen Job Services – in 1984, and today the program trains, mentors and guides 40 teens in the 38126 zip code each year.

MIFA’s third decade was defined by a growing relationship with the community under the direction of Allie Prescott, who became executive director in 1989.

In 1997, Margaret Craddock became executive director.

In the beginning, churches were loath to stand behind MIFA, but by 1998, over 200 local congregations showed their support through monetary and in-kind contributions and countless volunteer hours.

In 2001, MIFA was chosen by President Bush as one of several faith-based organizations impacting their communities.

Julie Raines and Margaret Craddock represented MIFA at the recognition luncheon in Washington, D.C. It received national attention again in 2007, when John Edwards made a campaign stop at The MIFA Store.