On Saturday, September 23, 2023, the Memphis Urban League hosted the Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race, a massive success that drew more than 500 supporters and around 260 runners. The event not only showcased the positive impact of the Save Our Sons (SOS) program but also highlighted the unity and strength of the Whitehaven community and the Southland Mall area.

Save Our Sons: Empowering Young African-American Men

The Save Our Sons initiative, created by the Memphis Urban League, focuses on empowering African-American males aged 18 to 34 in Memphis and Shelby County. The program aims to advance workforce readiness and life skills by providing resources for workforce training, financial literacy, family building, and health and wellness. By supporting the SOS program, businesses and individuals can help transform the lives of these young men and contribute to building a stronger, more resilient Memphis.

A Day of Celebration and Community Building

The Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the SOS program’s mission and the positive impact it has on the Whitehaven community. Participants and the public were invited to a vibrant community block party co-hosted by the Greater Whitehaven Economic Redevelopment Corporation (GWERC) and MEMFIX after the race. The event provided an opportunity for the community to come together, support the SOS program, and enjoy a fun-filled day.

A Much-Needed Success Story

The success of the Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race demonstrates the power of community engagement and the importance of programs like SOS in uplifting underserved populations. By bringing together hundreds of supporters and raising awareness about the challenges faced by young African-American men in Memphis, the event contributed to the overall well-being and prosperity of the city and helped create a more inclusive and equitable community.

The Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race was a much-needed success story for the Whitehaven community, the Memphis Urban League, and the Save Our Sons program. The event showcased the power of unity and collaboration in creating positive change and highlighted the importance of investing in the future of our communities.