Kahit gaano katindi ang ating pagnanasang mamuhay sa Amerika, there comes a time when we long to be with our fellow Filipinos... makipag-kwentuhan, magsalo-salong kumain ng pagkaing Pinoy, or share the happy and sad experiences of being here. At the same time, we also want to give something back to the community both here and back sa Pilipinas.

The Filipino-American Association of Metropolitan Memphis (a.k.a. FILAMemphis) was organized in 1977 with those thoughts in mind. What started as a prayer group blossomed into a much more involved, organized and purposeful association. The early activities of the organization were mostly social gatherings and celebrations of special events — Christmas for Children, Annual Induction Ball, Easter Sunday Picnic, Mother’s Day, Fourth of July, and sometimes, a Barrio Fiesta-themed gathering.

Through the years, FILAMemphis evolved into a much more meaningful organization. Cultural presentations, community involvement, and the annual medical mission to the Philippines were added in its line-up of activities. And God willing, if it was meant to be, a new multi-purpose cultural center that we can all be proud to call our own, will be a dream come true.

FILAMemphis is now a non-profit 501 (C) (3) tax-exempt organization. It is active. It is involved. Now, more than ever, is the time to be a part of this growing organization. ‘Sama na kayo sa FILAMemphis.

These are the activities you can be a part of, and the
benefits you get as a member of the FILAMemphis:

• The chance to hold the medical mission in your hometown, Philippines (Your personal expenses, if you join the mission, are tax-deductible)
• Scholarship grants to qualified graduating senior high-school students
• Tax-deductible contributions/donations/membership dues
• Free FilAm community directory (updates every two years)
• Bi-monthly Newsletter
• Fil-Am Heritage Day in May
  (your child can participate in the Santacruzan/Flores de Mayo festivals)
• Easter Sunday Picnic
• Annual Christmas Ball
• Annual Children’s Christmas Party
• Christmas Caroling
• Your vote to elect FILAMemphis officers every two years
• Athletic Activities/Tournaments
• Youth and Adult Cultural Dance Groups
• Camaraderie at its best