For Alexis Higgins, content marketing coordinator at Memorial Health System, philanthropy begins with loving people well.
Her approach to giving isn’t centered on how much someone can contribute. It’s about recognizing what you already have to offer and being willing to use it for someone else. That belief has shaped the way Alexis serves, particularly her commitment to young adults and young women who are finding their way through life’s transitions.
“To me, philanthropy is simply loving people well with whatever God has placed in your hands. Sometimes that looks like giving financially, but more often it looks like giving your time, sharing your gifts, opening doors for others, or using your voice to make someone else’s journey a little lighter. I believe the greatest impact happens when we choose to be good stewards of what we’ve been given and use it to help our communities flourish.”
Alexis knows how much one person can matter at the right moment. That’s why she is passionate about creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow.
“The community closest to my heart is young adults and young women, especially those navigating life’s transitions and trying to discover who they are and where they belong. I’ve seen how much one encouraging voice, one opportunity, or one person willing to invest in you can change the direction of someone’s life. That’s why I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow, whether through mentorship, ministry, community service, or simply showing up when it matters most.”
Her hope is that the encouragement and opportunities created today continue long after her own service.
“I hope my service helps create a future where more women and young adults have access to the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to thrive. My prayer is that the spaces I help build inspire others to believe in themselves, invest in their communities, and become the kind of leaders who lift others as they climb. If each generation is willing to pour into the next, the impact will reach far beyond anything one person could accomplish alone.”
And for anyone who doesn’t think the word philanthropist applies to them, Alexis has a simple message.
“I’d tell them that philanthropy isn’t about how much money you have. It’s about how willing you are to use what you’ve been given to make a difference in someone else’s life. Whether it’s your time, your talents, your encouragement, or your resources, every act of generosity matters. Don’t underestimate the impact of simply showing up and serving where you are.”
Alexis’s own understanding of philanthropy grew through her experience with Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s GivHer Circle Young Philanthropist Cohort.
“Participating in the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Give Her Circle Young Philanthropist Cohort gave me the opportunity to connect with other emerging leaders who are passionate about making a difference in our community. The experience expanded my perspective on philanthropy by showing me that meaningful impact comes in many forms, from giving financially to sharing your time, talents, and influence. It also reinforced my commitment to creating spaces where young adults and women feel supported, empowered, and inspired to invest in the communities around them.”
Alexis’s story is a reminder that generosity can begin with something as simple – and as meaningful – as showing up for someone else.
This story is part of Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s celebration of Black Philanthropy Month. Throughout August, we’re highlighting Black donors, fundholders, and community members whose generosity, leadership, and service are helping strengthen South Mississippi.
