SWITCH Youth Posts

Recently, Memphis Allies and its co-hosts presented the Third Annual Breakthrough Conference, which brought together many community organizations and stakeholders invested in reducing gun violence locally and nationally.

This line of work chooses you, you don’t choose it. For Memphis Allies and partner organizations, the work to reduce gun violence isn’t just a job; it isn’t just clocking in 9 to 5, it’s a 24/7 commitment.

We are heartbroken over the senseless act of gun violence on Wednesday that claimed the life of a Memphis Allies program participant at one of our sites. Our hearts go out to the victim’s family and to the staff members who had been working with the young man.

Fueling Hope: Memphis Allies donates van to the CPC. As part of the partnership, Memphis Allies recently presented the CPC with a new van and a monetary donation to support its community work.

SWITCH Youth participant ‘Jaden’ has the ‘means and the skills’ for success. Jaden was not in a good place when he entered Memphis Allies’ SWITCH Youth program at age 17.

Memphis Allies’ SWITCH Youth program is not just trying to reach teenagers who might be prone to finding trouble. Rather, the goal is to reach those most at risk for involvement in gun violence.

For Terranze Sharp, the first critical moment arrived at age 15. He grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was a member of the Gangster Disciples. One day, he found himself facing a choice: What should he do about this grown man who appeared ready to hurt, or even kill, his friend and fellow gang member?