MEMPHIS, Tenn. —
The new director of the City of Memphis Office of Youth Services held an open house on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, for community members and city leaders to learn more about the office and its initiatives.
Coming off a violent year for the youth, with juvenile charges up about 30% and LeBonheur Children’s Hospital setting a new record for children treated for gunshot wounds, director Brian Harris said he is focusing on solutions.
"So many times, we say our youth are at risk or having problems. But let's talk about solutions,” said Harris.
Harris said he is committed to taking a boots-on-the-ground approach. He wants to expand existing programs like MPLOY Youth and the Memphis Ambassadors Program.
"To have a pulse on the community, but more importantly, make sure we're listening and we're developing action plans that make a difference,” said Harris.
Super District 8-3 Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton said the goal is also to get more parents involved in programs this year.
"Involving the parents, not just only the students... We're going to get down to the root cause of things that are happening because our babies need an opportunity just like anyone else does,” said Cooper-Sutton.
One of the first neighborhoods Harris’s team is focusing on is Westwood, where a 12-year-old was shot in January.
President of Uplift Westwood CDC Pastor Melvin Watkins hopes this new partnership will help minimize these violent incidents.
"It's not always doing something new. Many times, it's about redoubling our efforts of what we are doing. Our children just need access. They need to be given more opportunities and given inspiration to stay the course,” said Pastor Watkins.
Director Harris said he is still in the process of listening to community leaders to see what initiatives will best fit each neighborhood’s needs.
He also said the Office of Youth Services will host town halls throughout the year to get feedback directly from the community.