MEMPHIS, Tenn. — xAI is lending a hand to its neighbors in Whitehaven.
As concerns continue over its operations, the company has been picking up trash in nearby neighborhoods and improving infrastructure at four schools in the area.
xAI currently has two sites in the Memphis area. The supercomputer, ‘Colussus,’ is located in Boxtown, while ‘Colussus 2’ is in Whitehaven.
Despite pushback from some residents, the company is making its presence felt in Whitehaven and Westwood.
It’s cleaned up trash and debris in neighborhoods and is working to improve learning spaces for students in the community.
Last month, the board for Memphis Shelby County Schools approved a donation from xAI to fix maintenance issues at John P. Freeman Optional School, Fairley High School, Mitchell High School and Westwood High School.
“And if they’re going to be here, then yes, let’s let them have an impact, a positive impact on our children and not just drain from our community and I’m calling on other business leaders to do the same,” said Michelle McKissack, MSCS Board Member, District 1.
Board Member McKissack said she was initially skeptical about xAI, but her feelings changed when she toured one of its facilities and spoke with some of the company’s top officials.
“They seemed to be very genuinely concerned about being part of the community and giving back and being good neighbors,” said McKissack. “And after that meeting, I walked away from it saying, ‘Yes, I can sign on to this.’ Because no matter what, they’re here and they’re not going anywhere, they’re here.”
With xAI’s donation, it promised to take immediate action on the schools’ HVAC systems.
The company is also working with school leaders to improve plumbing, lighting, athletic facilities, and windows.