TESTIMONIALS
Over the years, we have collected many personal notes from local, national, and even international leaders who are touched by our efforts. Their experiences and feedback inspire us to continually focus on raising the bar and doing whatever we can to expand our impact and help even more people. We enjoy a rare privilege of working with so many wonderfully diverse people and organizations and we encourage and invite everyone to join us for this incredible journey....even if only for a few steps. We take pride in the fact that if you ask 100 people what the LPBC means to them, you will likely receive 100 different reasons based on a special moment that touched them, a favorite event, lesson learned, or new friendships formed. Here are just a few we would like to share with you!
"Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club is redefining the business consciousness of its city...it's an amazingly thin place where Business Intersects with Purpose to fuel community transformation. Seeing first-hand the collaboration between community and business leaders through hands-on SERVICE to inject HOPE into the lives of the most vulnerable of their city in the most truest form of humanity, is truly a sight to behold...I'm convinced that the LPBC model for community transformation should be duplicated for other cities as a catalyst for putting a new face to what SERVANT LEADERSHIP should look like for a healthy city." - Manny Ohonme, Founder and CEO of Samaritan's Feet International
"As Governor, I have the privilege of seeing a lot of the great gatherings around the state of Tennessee. The Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club is a place where members of the community come together to hear examples of the many great things happening in Memphis. I appreciate the LPBC and the impact it makes on Memphis." - Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam
"I absolutely love the way the LPBC connects the dots to the benefit of great organizations. This is corporate responsibility that cannot be legislated or governed. It is the best of business." - Dave Carlson, Smith & Nephew
"It is truly astonishing how much of an effect one organization can have on a community and I just want you to know how much we, as Memphians, appreciate all that the LPBC does each and every day. You keep us in the know for all the events and great things happening, you make it easy for us to get involved and give back, you remind us that hope and expectations should be high, and yet ask for nothing in return…always giving. There is a movement taking place and LPBC is at the forefront of fueling the energy and creating the change. You and the LPBC are indeed Instigators of Change. Thanks again for all you do." - Friend of the LPBC
"In so many ways, Memphis is a rich city. We are rich in compassion. We are rich in charitable contributions, and we are rich in volunteerism. The Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club develops those assets. They are a vital resource, which brings the community together" - Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell
"I am proud of the work the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club is doing!" - Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, Jr.
"It was very revealing. I had no idea of the broad range of community outreach initiatives involved by the sponsoring members. This is the most positive movement that I have seen in Memphis in a long time and is surely needed. I really enjoyed my visit." - Bill Morris, former Memphis Mayor
“In my opinion, the key role of any community organization is to be a True Difference-Maker. This means the organization’s efforts and activities should have a positive impact and significantly enhance the lives of the people in the community. One of my favorite community organizations is the LPBC, which, among many other things, hosts a monthly breakfast to gather people throughout Memphis for an intellectual exchange on a wide range of topics. I spoke there in 2010 and have written articles for their group ever since then. I was extremely impressed that morning by the engagement and enthusiasm displayed by the entire gathering of people. I’m amazed by their continuing efforts to make a difference throughout Memphis. They are a great role model of how to be a True Difference-Maker as a community organization.” - Dan Coughlin, author, The Business Leader’s Impact
"It is actually hard to put into words the feeling I had meeting and joining with the Memphis 'giving' community at the LPBC Signature Breakfast hosted by Smith & Nephew and in partnership with The Martin Institute for Teaching Excellence in August, 2014. To see living embodiments of real and true compassion and caring for others, all gathered in one place gave me some sense of the astounding range, depth and sustained good works the business community in Memphis is doing. It was clear to me that those doing this incredible work, reaching those in real need of hope and help, not only 'wish' that others would not suffer, but the Memphis Business community is taking responsibility to personally decrease suffering in the world. I'm so happy to have had this honor, and truly do appreciate the warmth, generosity, and complete kindness I always experience whenever I come to Memphis. Thank you all so much." - John Hunter, Award-Winning Educator, former LPBC guest speaker, and focus of the documentary, "World Peace and Other Fourth-Grade Achievements"
"The Southaven Chamber owes you a debt of gratitude for working so closely with us in re-formatting our Quarterly Luncheon. We have observed how LPBC has focused on the positives in the community and dedicated such huge efforts in making a difference in Memphis by increasing awareness of community needs, then rolling up your sleeves and getting involved in BEING the difference! Leading by example is the name of the game! Encouraging businesses to network and connect with diverse groups and fellow businesses in the Mid-South area is essential in economic development and community wellness. Your energy and enthusiasm is contagious and we are so thankful for our relationship with you and Lipscomb-Pitts. Keep up the great work!" - Debbie King, Southaven Chamber of Commerce
"Economic Opportunities (EcOp) was the featured Charity Spotlight at LPBC’s Signature Breakfast in January of this year. EcOp is a ministry of Memphis Leadership Foundation and offers a “Life Transformation” program for ex-offenders who, through God’s grace, seek a better and brighter future. This EcOp success story is one you might expect to see on television…literally. Terry Readus, an EcOp graduate, personifies the heart and soul of this special Memphis ministry. Terry was in a tough spot some years back and, inadvertently, became part of a WMC-TV series, “Taking Back Our Neighborhoods”. Joe Birch was both reporter and producer of the segment that captured the image of Terry, asleep on the porch of a boarded up house. Joe referred to Terry as “Mr. Sleepy”. This was seemingly just another news story until, a few months later, Terry approached Joe and introduced himself as Mr. Sleepy. An extraordinary bond developed between the two men. Fast forward to 2014 with Joe recommending Terry to EcOp on the same day the Emmy award winning journalist accepted EcOp’s invitation to serve as keynote speaker for the 2014 winter graduating class. As fate would have it, Johnny Pitts and Jeremy Park shared the story of EcOp with Carl Barton of Aardvark Memphis, a full service property maintenance company. In a memorable life lesson, Barton’s grandfather taught young Carl the concept of using a bent nail instead of grabbing a new one from the box. Carl Barton has embraced that philosophy within his company when considering a job applicant with a less than perfect past. What clearly was God’s perfect plan all along was revealed September 11, 2014, when Terry Readus became the newest employee at Aardvark Memphis." - Bob Brame, Economic Opportunities, a ministry of Memphis Leadership Foundation
"Giving Back with Purpose, by Jeremy Park, is one of the books I am reading this summer. In just a few short years at the helm of the Lipscomb and Pitts Breakfast Club, Jeremy has shown that one person can truly change a culture and he is changing how many feel about our wonderful city. Through examples of local nonprofits, Memphis based corporations and regular individuals who have a heart for others, Jeremy seeks to inspire the reader to unselfishly give of our resources. While it takes a financial investment to keep worthwhile organizations viable, it is time that proves to be the most valuable commodity. We are all blessed with exactly the same amount of it but until we learn to freely give it away with real purpose, we will not find the personal fulfillment from life that God intended for us. My hope is that the book will serve as a gentle reminder to me that there is more that I can do and must do in order to become the person I want to be." - Bob McBride as featured in The Commercial Appeal
"Thanks so very much for the invite to this morning's event. As always, the topic is timely and the speaker well worth hearing. Thanks too to LPBC for continuing to provide catalytic, dynamic leadership toward improving our community through civic and business engagement. It is an amazing - and wholly necessary - partnership with government and other entities." - Mayor Sharon Goldsworthy, City of Germantown, Tennessee
"Has anyone told you lately how much the LPBC is valued in our ‘beloved community???" - Kirk Whalum, GRAMMY winning recording artist
"The segment you hosted for Memphis Oral School for the Deaf on The Spark was fabulous!!! I cannot thank you enough for what you are doing for our organization and for all organizations in Memphis. Please be encouraged and fueled to keep doing what you do so tirelessly day in and day out!" - Lisa Terry, Memphis Oral School for the Deaf
I loved Streets Ministries so much, I am becoming a regular volunteer there starting Sept. 16th. I will be reading to first graders. So excited! Thanks for introducing me to that wonderful place" - Amy Goff, C Spire Wireless
"Keep up the AWESOME work – you are really doing fantastic things for the community." - Steve Basar, Shelby County Commissioner, District 1, Position 3
"THANK YOU!!! I was going to email you today to tell you how much we appreciated the opportunity to speak to that many local business people about the Center. It was a wonderful opportunity, and the article in Sunday’s paper was also wonderful! We owe you big time, and if the Center can help you and the Breakfast Club in the future, just let me know. (the Board members who attended the meeting were very impressed with everything). Thanks for including them." - Barbara King, The Exchange Club Family Center
"I loved the workshop! Please let me know when you do it again. You gave us more useful tips and demonstrations than any other Public Speaking Workshop I have attended...and, I have attended a lot. Thanks again -- very informative and practical information. LOVED IT!!!" - Sandra Mabry, after attending a Public Speaking Workshop the LPBC presented.
"The LPBC is an organization with great hospitality and vision. I look forward to developing a relationship that will help us continue to build community in this country. Thanks for everything." - Richard Montanez, Pepsico North America
"I watched the entire show (not just the CAC part!) on Thursday night. What a well done and informative one. You have set the production and community education standards high. Thank you so much for including the CAC in your well done public awareness of good work and non profit missions in Memphis. Just after the show there were several contacts with us. I wanted to tell you of three I received. One was from a board member who told me she watches the WKNO show routinely because she really learns about Memphis from it. Another to my husband from a formerly homeless man my husband met in his nonprofit work. Robert and he regularly discuss the WKNO shows, and this one is one of his favorites. Again, he was most complimentary. Then from a friend and colleague who was approached after watching the Thursday “Spark” by another neighbor wondering if my friend knew of the CAC- which she had learned of on the show. What a diverse audience you have! Again, thank you for helping the CAC to spread the word about prevention and that there is a strong small agency working hard to meet the needs of children who have been victims of abuse." - Nancy Williams, Memphis Child Advocacy Center
“I just want to let you know I thoroughly enjoy reading your newsletter. So many great things happening in Memphis! I look forward to reading it EVERY week -- thanks.” - Tameesha Desangles, iHeartCommerce
“First of all, I love your newsletter…everything about it is so positive and uplifting. All the good stuff in life and none of the bad. I was fortunate enough to attend the LPBC meeting a couple of months ago and I was amazed at the positive energy that abounds there….Thanks so much for all you do.” – Friend of the LPBC
"I can’t recall a more interesting, productive, or just plain valuable way to spend two hours. Thank you sir!" - Joe Pearson, FedEx
"Thank you!! I want you to know that I feel gratitude to you personally for my new gig with Grizzlies Prep School. I learned about their need for elective teachers though the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club newsletter. Very appreciative!" - Elaine Blanchard, Friend of the LPBC
“Wow…you’ve created a networking juggernaut for Memphis businesses and non-profits!” - Megan Klein, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis
"When people ask me about what is going on in Memphis, LPBC is one of the first things that comes to mind because of all of the opportunities it presents to give back to Memphis." - Gary Wiseman, masterIT
"This is for everyone with the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club because you do so much for the community. As I sit here and reflect on the things that I have to be thankful for you quickly come to mind. There are 4 things necessary to make you happy: Support, Being useful, Something to look forward to, Gratitude. You have given me the first 3, so I definitely have plenty of number 4. So, today, I want to tell you how thankful I am to have you in my life.” - Friend of the LPBC
“Thanks for allowing us to volunteer and be a part of the Samaritans Feet project. I think my kids gained a whole new appreciation for the things they often take for granted. I don’t think Hunter will soon forget his new friend, Edward, who lives with his family in a shelter. Thanks again for the opportunity and memorable experience.” - Friend of the LPBC
“As someone new to Memphis, attending these events and meeting folks associated with the LPBC has made a significant impact on my impression of the city. I really appreciate the opportunity to be involved with LPBC.” – Benjamin Morton, University of Memphis
“I wanted to let you know how much I truly enjoyed attending the LPBC event! I’ve been in Memphis for about five years and until coming to Smith & Nephew I had never been informed about the wealth of information that is shared at these events nor the wonderful community services which take place. The caliber of the host, Rich Karlgaard, was top notch and I’m eagerly anticipating the next event and sharing the news with my staff as well as other senior leaders. Thanks again for all of the hard work that goes into making something like this occur and this is truly one of the many great things that is happening in Memphis!” - Linda Portrum, Smith & Nephew
"The LPBC story is such a powerful one and really exemplifies what a selfless corporate collaborative impact can have on a community at large. All I'm saying is if you have never been to one of their many events, you're missing out. One word: AWESOME!" - Friend of the LPBC
“I wanted to let you know how much I am in awe of the work you accomplish for the city of Memphis. I have lived in Memphis for 7 years and nothing has made me prouder than the work LPBC has done in the past couple of years. Thanks again for showing that passion and hard work can translate into solid results that a community can champion. The city is buzzing with energy and I hope that energy spreads like wildfire throughout the city. Thanks again for all you’ve done and continue to do.” – LPBC Partner
"I must tell you that last Friday’s LPBC Breakfast with Jim Abbot was nothing short of amazing. I’m not sure if it was the incredibly well-delivered pre-program—with Johnny’s tips, highlights, Spark spot or the spotlight on the Redbirds, your expert facilitation—or Jim’s presentation, I enjoyed every moment. Jim’s presentation resonated with every single person in that room, and all of us took his ADAPT to heart. And for me, his words, message and encouragement were incredibly meaningful and timely." - Jenny Turner Koltnow
“I have several new internship sites for CBU students as a direct result of the email announcement in the weekly newsletter. Thank you so much for your assistance!” - Amy Ware, Christian Brothers University
“I was describing your work to a friend of mine: Meaningful!” - Jeff Dozier
“You have a remarkable gift for shining the light on what is important, and celebrating the collaborations that bring positive change." – Nancy Coffee, New Memphis Institute
“Since returning to Memphis after 35 years away, LPBC has been an incredible window on everything happening in Memphis. I have enjoyed everything from Ogle tours to Central Library interpretive exhibits to BRIDGES luncheons as a direct result of your wonderful service. Please keep up the wonderful service to all interested in all things Memphis!” - Eddie Settles
“I am so impressed with LPBC. Memphians generally take for granted the incredible work performed by many organizations in our community. LPBC brings these to the forefront. I often say, other cities may have more amenities, such as shopping, restaurants, etc, but few compare with the generosity of spirit and expansiveness of heart with those in Memphis…" - Mark Wender, The Soulsville Foundation
“The speakers and programs offered by Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club are World Class. What an amazing opportunity to network and meet other business professionals in the Memphis community not to mention the fantastic speakers they bring in – Tom Koulopoulos, Lou Holtz, and of course Digger Phelps (just to mention a few). You will often see civic leaders such as the Memphis or Shelby County Mayors, the Memphis Police Chief or City Council persons in attendance at LPBC. I know that taking a morning (or two) to attend one of these events has made me a better informed citizen of the Memphis area and a better educated professional. If you are available to attend it’s a great experience!!” – Maggie Harris, International Paper
"For Memphis and all who call it home for family and business, Friday’s event was typical of what the Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club does all the time. You have raised the bar for public service, civic responsibility and philanthropic philosophy to an unprecedented level. You and your colleagues, simply put, make Memphis and our region a far better place to live and work. And that is more than pretty cool, it is a remarkable example of community based service work at its very best. God bless you…and thanks." - Bob Brame, Economic Opportunities
"Thank you so much for including me in the crowd at the last Breakfast Club meeting. I found the energy in the room exhilarating, and I was honored to be your guest. I have passed on Johnny’s 3 Peats more than three times, and I was extremely inspired by Ken’s talk on taking employees to greatness. Needless to say, Alexis Glick’s talk resonated with me as well. What a wonderful thing you are doing in and for Memphis! I made some nice connections, and hopefully those will grow in time. The Memphis Public Library is a place that helps customers learn, connect, and grow, and so is Lipscomb Pitts. Kudos to you all!" - Keenon McCloy, Memphis Public Library and Information Center
"I can't thank you enough for all the service and positive energy you are putting into the world." - Brian Jones, The TN Chamber
"Jeremy – I’m chairing the board for Safeways an Operation Safe Community spawned organization and I’m in the midst of building the board. Today I had coffee with a potential board member recommended by Luke Yancy through Blair Taylor. Jackie Yokley ultimately accepted the invitation to join the board, but not until after her grilling of me from a list of questions she got at a LPBC workshop on selecting not for profits with which to volunteer! Good work!" - Dave Carlson, Smith & Nephew
“Just a quick note of great appreciation for the breakfast meeting Friday, at the invitation of Moya Dent with independent bank. Not only was the speaker informative (and entertaining), I made two extremely helpful contacts regarding the City of Germantown's focus on "the triple bottom line". It was a powerful demonstration of the value of networking opportunities.” – Mayor Sharon Goldsworthy, City of Germantown, TN
“It was my first breakfast. And it only took about 2 minutes to realize it’s the premier business networking event in Memphis!” – Friend of the LPBC
“This was my first time to attend the Breakfast Club. To say I was impressed is an understatement. What your group is doing is very commendable.” – Wayne Dierks, Ducks Unlimited Inc.
“Thank you. My first visit to your event. Have read about it for many years and have been impressed from afar. Had no idea of the scope! Tremendous!” – Kent Ritchey, Landers Auto Group
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to you for the invitation to the breakfast. I was overwhelmed by the size of your crowd and the level of community leaders who attend. It is one of the most impressive groups I have had the pleasure of being with. Hat’s off to LPBC!” – Cynthia Thompson, HR Professionals
“Thank you for all you do!!! “LPBC is nothing short of an amazing organization!” - Friend of the LPBC
"You do great work that impacts the entire community!" - Kelly Penwell, University of Memphis
"So good to have seen you at the recent AFP luncheon! Your talk was great! I hope that many more companies will act as we have, and like those that partner together with you through LPBC and begin to see the value of community engagement as an engine not only for philanthropy but also for business growth - good stuff!" - Friend of the LPBC
