MEMPHIS, Tenn — A Memphis police officer is taking action as violence and juvenile crime rise by using an after-school program he founded to combat the challenges the city is facing.
"That’s our objective — to get them on the right path," said Randy Taylor, the founder of "Hope Activated."
Taylor said he founded the nonprofit because he wanted to change the behavior and mindset of Memphis’ young people.
"We see all of these crimes being committed and we see, I mean felony crimes; like aggravated robbery, aggravated burgles, motor vehicle thefts," Taylor said. "I mean, that is so high in this city and it seems like every time we encounter these suspects it’s our young men — our young boys, and that’s why I am driven to mentoring."
The need for intervention hits home for Taylor. Taylor’s oldest son is currently serving a 20-year sentence on two counts of attempted first-degree murder.
His middle son, after becoming involved in gang violence, lost his life at just 19 years old.
"It’s a kid that does not have a positive role model in his life — does not have a positive male figure in his life," Taylor said.
Now, Taylor is working to turn the tide — not only as a Memphis police officer — but through Hope Activated’s Young Father’s Program, financial literacy programs and a driver’s license course.
“We let them know that they build, and they construct their own lives," Taylor said.
Those who participate build a new life through weekly empowerment sessions focusing on the consequences of gun violence and strengthening inner problem-solving skills.
"Although vastitudes have befallen them in life and it seems like they’ve been short-changed or dealt a bad hand in life; we teach them that they’re in control," Taylor said.