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City of Memphis camp highlights positive aspects of the bluff city with youth in Westwood

'Elevate 901, Westwood,' hosted by the Office of Youth Services, inspires Westwood kids by helping them experience all the City of Memphis has to offer.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. —

The City of Memphis Office of Youth Services is ramping up its summer programs. This year, new director Brian Harris is hosting the first ever "Elevate 901, Westwood" camp for grades 7-12.   

Westwood is a special community for Director Harris because he grew up there and taught at Westwood High School before being appointed to lead Youth Services in January.  

"Westwood, you don't hear a lot about. So, when it comes to the exposure and program and services, we're going to put 38109 on the map and continue the work Mount Vernon Baptist Church has been doing and the schools,” said Harris.  

Director Harris said many of the kids in Westwood have never left the neighborhood. So, the goal is to expose them to more positivity in the city with a corresponding curriculum. The program will also help the kids get to know their city leaders. 

"The lack of experience brings a lack of perspective, and we want to make sure we expose our young people to everything that's possible. Lunch is provided and I'm not talking a ham sandwich and an apple. We're going to take them to some great restaurants in the city that's paid for. The parent has to do nothing but get them to the location,” said Harris. 

Harris said over 300 kids signed up for the two-week camp. It starts on June 3. 

Other summer events from the Office of Youth Services include the MPLOY Memphis job placement program, a new non-grade point average-based job placement and tutoring program, and more camps through its Memphis Ambassadors Program. Learn more HERE.

 

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