we can make a difference

Save Our Sons & Daughters

Together we can prevent our sons from reaching the end of their rope. Inspiring them to develop into amazing individuals.

Save our Sons and Daughters is a mentorship program primarily focusing on opportunity youth ages 13-24.  Through mentorship, one-on-one counseling sessions, peer-to-peer support, group mentoring, and counseling, participants will identify and address barriers and obstacles that often derail youth from reaching their full potential. With a strong focus on conflict resolution, de-escalation training, emotional intelligence education, and stress and anger triggers training, these youth will be equipped to handle life’s many twists and turns.

This program also provides soft skills training, life skills training, financial literacy/stability education, job readiness training, health education, and wellness and mindfulness to advance self-efficacy and self-sufficiency.

In the second phase of SOSD, participants are offered job placement services to assist with obtaining and sustaining gainful employment.  Participants will also be paired with a mentor to ensure they receive continued support, guidance, and assistance on their road to leading productive lives. SOSD graduates will continue to be a part of the family by becoming mentors for those who come after them.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please don’t hesitate to call me at 901-584-1786 or email at dgardner@memul.org.

Save Our Sons and Daughters is a transformative mentorship initiative that includes the Men’s Community Closet aimed at empowering opportunity youth aged 13-24, providing them with the tools and guidance necessary to overcome various life challenges. The program offers a comprehensive approach through one-on-one counseling, peer support, and group mentoring, helping participants identify and navigate barriers that can hinder their potential. By focusing on essential skills such as conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and emotional intelligence, the program prepares these youths to manage stress and anger effectively. Now available twice a week at Trezevant High School in Memphis, the program addresses the unique needs of students in this inner-city school, where social and economic challenges are prevalent. This initiative not only supports individual growth but also contributes to fostering a healthier, more resilient community.

Men's Community Closet

As part of the Save Our Sons & Daughters initiative, the Men’s Community Closet is dedicated to empowering young men by providing them with professional attire for pivotal moments in their lives. We offer more than just clothing; we offer a chance to build confidence and seize opportunities. Our mission is to ensure every young man can present himself with pride, whether at a job interview, a court appearance, or a career milestone. By offering access to quality clothing and tailoring services, we help young men not only look their best but also feel their best, fostering a belief in their potential and future success.

Through our efforts, we aim to break down barriers and open doors for young men in need. By partnering with community organizations and supporters, we extend our reach and impact, ensuring that every suit is a step towards empowerment and self-belief. Our commitment is to transform lives, one suit at a time, by providing the tools necessary for young men to succeed in their personal and professional endeavors.

The Memphis Urban League Men’s Community Closet is a vital resource aimed at supporting individuals in need of professional attire for occasions such as job interviews, work, or court appearances. By offering lightly used professional clothing, the community closet serves as a bridge for those seeking to make a positive impression and improve their circumstances.

Donations of gently worn suits, dress shirts, slacks, and shoes are crucial to maintaining this service and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to present themselves confidently in professional settings.

The initiative is expanding to include a women’s closet soon, further broadening its impact and inclusivity. Your contributions not only provide essential clothing but also empower individuals as they strive for personal and professional success.

Bernal E. Smith, II Empowerment

Center

On Wednesday, February 28, 2018, the Memphis Urban League opened its Bernal E. Smith, II Empowerment Center in honor of the late publisher of the Tri-State Defender. The new center is an extension of the “Save Our Sons” initiative. The initiative is designed to advance the workforce readiness of African-American men ages 18-34 by providing workforce essential training and addressing the mental health and wellness of participants.

Smith was a member of the Memphis Urban League Board of Directors and a huge supporter of the Save Our Sons initiative. He had a tremendous commitment to mentoring young men in the  African-American community. Smith worked tirelessly to create economic opportunities for young men and he did so in style. Keenly aware that he was considered a public figure, Smith was always distinguished in his dress. Towanda Peete-Smith, Smith’s wife, donated over 150 suits, ties, shirts, and shoes to the initiative.

PLEASE SEND YOUR DONATIONS TO:

Memphis Urban League
Bernal E. Smith, II Empowerment Center
413 N. Cleveland Street
Memphis, TN 38104

Accepting Rack-Ready, Professional Attire

Save Our Sons & Daughters Intake Form

To register, please take the time to fill out the information below.


Get in Touch!

Location:

413 N. Cleveland Street Memphis, TN 38104

Telephone: 901.272.2491   Email: info@memul.org