Meet CCF’s president, Preston Frazer

At Christian Community Foundation, we’re a family of givers, united by a common thread of faith in Jesus Christ and a desire to wisely steward our God-given resources. In that spirit, we’re excited to introduce you to the newest member of our staff, Preston Frazer! Preston is an avid believer, a lover of Memphis (and carrot cake) and passionate about his new role. Keep reading to learn more – and, as always, we encourage you to stop by or call the office to say hello!

Tell us about yourself!

I was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, but have called Memphis home for the past 27 years. My wife, Ashley, and I have been married for nearly three decades and have three children – Katie, Bennett and Chase. I loved raising my kids and spending time with them, coaching their sports teams when they were younger. Now, as a family, we love water sports, snow skiing and board games. I’m an avid runner and casual golfer, and enjoy connecting with and investing in my community. I’m passionate about our city and have been on the board of the National Civil Rights Museum for 15 years. I’m a graduate of Downline Institute and participate in NEXUS’ mentorship program. I served as an elder at Second Presbyterian Church and helped lead mission trips, including four over the past two years with youth and men’s groups.

What was your role prior to CCF?

Before CCF, I loved my role at AutoZone where I was afforded the opportunity to learn and grow through stretch assignments and additional responsibilities while working with some of the finest leaders in corporate America. As Executive Vice-President of Store Operations, Commercial and Loss Prevention, it was the highest honor to get to know and serve individuals on the front lines of our retail business. Due to our varying backgrounds, I’m not sure our paths would have crossed otherwise, but I was blessed by the employees who were the salt and the light, helping to broaden my perspective as a leader.

How long have you held a donor-advised fund?

We’ve been a part of the CCF family for 15 years.

Can you share your story about how you came to know about CCF?

I was having breakfast with a previous board member, Dan Patterson, and he encouraged me to open a fund – even if it was to simply use it for tithing to our church. He shared all administrative tasks would be handled by CCF and mentioned I could give appreciated stock to maximize my tax deductions while having better control over where the dollars went. It was because of this conversation with Dan that my family decided to open a fund with CCF – and the rest is history!

What inspired you to pick up the mantle as president?

The Lord has called me to be a good steward of my family, finances, city and people He’s entrusted into my care. He planted me in Memphis and gave me a heart for our neighbors and community. I want to see our city thrive and flourish – what better way to learn about the needs and opportunities in Memphis than working with our outstanding donor base who feel the same?

What does “strategic, generous, impactful giving” mean to you?

To me, the words “thoughtful,” “prayerful” and “intentional” go hand-in-hand. This means seeking the Lord’s guidance about where and how He wants me to give. Everything I have is His, and I want to give where there is need and opportunity for thriving, flourishing and multiplying.

What’s a scripture or passage that has guided you personally or professionally?

Three verses come to mind:

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in Me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from Me, you can do nothing.” 
– John 15:5

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
– Galatians 2:20

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
– Ephesians 2:10

What’s one fun fact you’d like to share with the CCF family?

I love deep-dish Chicago pizza and carrot cake!