Memphis Allies Initiative presents gun violence reduction progress to local lawmakers

On a snowy afternoon in Memphis, the atmosphere was charged with hope as Susan Deason, executive director of Memphis Allies, presented a compelling update on their initiative aimed at combating gun violence in the city and Shelby County. Joined by Mick Wright, the government relations manager, Deason expressed gratitude for the support received from private donors and the state legislature, particularly Governor Lee, over the past three years.

The Memphis Allies initiative, now in its third year, has made significant strides in addressing the pressing issue of gun violence. Funded in part by the governor's violent crime intervention fund, the program collaborates closely with the Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. Deason emphasized the importance of partnerships, noting that their approach is distinct from other programs at Youth Villages, as it involves a network of allies working together to provide high-intensity services to those most at risk.

At the heart of their strategy is the "SWITCH" model, which stands for "Support With Intention to Create Hope." This program targets individuals aged 12 to 35 who are at high risk of involvement in gun violence, often due to gang affiliations or a history with the justice system. Currently, Memphis Allies serves around 475 high-risk individuals, with evidence suggesting that their interventions are making a difference. Notably, only 7% of adult participants and 13% of youth participants have been rearrested on weapon charges, a stark contrast to national recidivism rates hovering around 50%.

As the presentation unfolded, committee members raised questions about community involvement and the role of local organizations. Deason acknowledged the importance of grassroots partnerships, including collaborations with local fraternities and sororities, and expressed a desire to strengthen these connections. The discussion also highlighted the need for continued support from local governments, with Deason noting that most funding currently comes from private sources and state dollars.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing gun violence in Memphis, with representatives emphasizing the unique challenges faced by different communities within the city. As the Memphis Allies initiative continues to evolve, the commitment to fostering community partnerships and securing additional funding remains paramount in their mission to create safer neighborhoods.

In closing, Deason reiterated the importance of accountability and tracking outcomes, expressing hope for future collaborations that could enhance their efforts. The dialogue at the meeting reflected a shared commitment to tackling gun violence, with a focus on innovative solutions and community engagement as vital components of the strategy moving forward.