Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM) is proud to announce a new partnership with Memphis Allies, a transformative initiative launched by Youth Villages. This partnership is a critical step in addressing the rising violence in Memphis neighborhoods, where homicides have surged by 81% since 2019. At the forefront of this new collaboration is Eric Watson, Jr., who has been hired as the new SWITCH Connection Coach at MAM Olivet.
Memphis Allies: Turning the Tide on Violence
The statistics in Memphis are alarming. In 2022, a life was taken every 29 hours, with 302 homicides in total, 19 of which were children. Unfortunately, the trend has continued into 2023, with homicides up by over 30% compared to last year. Memphis Allies was formed in response to this crisis, bringing together community groups and resources to create safe neighborhoods where children can thrive and families can prosper.
At the heart of the initiative is the SWITCH program, which stands for Support With Intention To Create Hope. This community violence intervention model focuses on identifying and serving individuals at the highest risk of involvement in gun violence, targeting youth and young adults between the ages of 12 to 35. By providing outreach, life coaching, case management, and clinical services, Memphis Allies aims to break the cycle of violence and transform communities.
Eric Watson, Jr. poses with his girls flag football team.
The Role of Eric Watson, Jr. at MAM Olivet
As the newly appointed SWITCH Connection Coach at MAM Olivet, Eric Watson, Jr. will be instrumental in connecting young people to Memphis Allies’ network of resources. Eric’s role is pivotal in supporting youth at the highest risk of committing or falling victim to gun violence, helping them move toward safety, stability, and success.
Through this partnership, MAM and Memphis Allies are extending a lifeline to youth who may otherwise feel trapped in a cycle of violence. By leveraging sports, mentorship, and the trust MAM has built in the community, Eric Watson, Jr. will help these young people “Switch It Up” and choose a better path.
Working Together for a Safer Future
This collaboration is more than just a new program—it is a vision for a brighter future. Memphis Allies has set a bold goal to reduce homicides by 30% over the next four years, and they plan to do this by building a comprehensive network of support services for more than 2,000 individuals at the highest risk of violence. This network will work with local schools, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and government officials to ensure that all aspects of the community are involved in creating lasting change.
Memphis Allies is drawing on national expertise, including advice from organizations like the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform and Advance Peace, which have successfully reduced gun violence in cities across the U.S. By adopting proven strategies and tailoring them to the unique needs of Memphis, the partnership between MAM and Memphis Allies is poised to make a significant impact.
Chalice Harbor, MAM’s Chief Operations Officer, shares, “Our partnership with Memphis Allies is all about being there for kids who need a little extra support, giving high-risk youth a safe place to grow, connect, and find hope in the after-school space. Together, we’re creating a space where they can build connections, find mentors, and discover their strengths. It’s not just about the programs—it’s about making sure every young person knows they’re valued and has a chance to thrive.”
The Power of Community
As this partnership moves forward, one key principle remains at the center: the solution to community safety lies within the community itself. MAM and Memphis Allies believe that every Memphian has a role to play in creating safer neighborhoods. Whether through mentorship, volunteering, or supporting local initiatives, everyone who loves Memphis can contribute to the shared goal of reducing violence and providing opportunities for young people to succeed.
Together, MAM and Memphis Allies are taking bold steps to ensure that Memphis becomes a place where families and businesses can thrive, where children can grow up without fear, and where all neighborhoods are vibrant and cared for.
The future is brighter when we work together. Let’s make Memphis safer for everyone.
