Youth Villages | WTN Newsletter | Fall 2022

FROM YOUTH VILLAGES DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT, WEST TENNESSEE

Youth Villages has come so far since its inception in 1986. You, our community of supporters, have allowed us to impact so many lives in so many ways. Thanks to YOU, we raised $2.79 million in FY22 to make a difference in the lives of 6,418 kids and young adults in our communities in West Tennessee.

In this edition of New Heights, we will highlight the incredible journey of one of our LifeSet youth, Elina. We will also share our newest initiative, Memphis Allies. It is a bold new vision and way to deal with the ongoing gun violence that plagues the city and makes it difficult for kids to grow up and live successfully. We will introduce you to a family who has made Youth Villages one of their top philanthropic organizations and share their why behind supporting our work. You will also have the chance to learn more about our volunteer program and how you can get involved in a capacity that fits your lifestyle. As we enter the season of giving thanks, we are incredibly grateful for you. Your continued interest in the work we do to help children and families live well means we do not do this alone. Your support makes it possible for us to care for children and to provide the services they need to live in their communities successfully. We appreciate how you are a force for families!

WEST TENNESSEE ADVISORY BOARD

Jon Wright, Chair

Desiree Allen

Alex Boggs

Preston Butts Matthew Gabriel John Goode

Ruby Hancock Thomas Holmes Arianna Poindexter

Leslie Tate Chris Vescovo Angie Ware

YOUTH VILLAGES NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mike Bruns, Board Chair

William (Bill) T. Giles, Vice Chair

Vanessa Diffenbaugh, Secretary

Gerald Laurain, Treasurer

Patrick Lawler, CEO

Mark Allen

Jes Averhart

Fred Burns

Jennifer Bush

Amy Crate

Candace Steele Flippin

Chris Hunter Johnny Pitts Elizabeth Rose

Gary Shorb

Rev. Rufus Smith

Matthew Tarkenton David Tyler

Darryl “Chip” Wade Monica Wharton

Katie Jones

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

WEST TENNESSEE katie.jones@youthvillages.org 901-251-4813

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ELINA USES HER LIFE EXPERIENCE TO ADVOCATE FOR OTHERS

Elina spent her summer at the Aspen Institute in Washington, D.C., working on projects designed to increase wealth and financial mobility for lowerincome Americans.

She’s influencing policy and advocating for young people who experience foster care.

Elina’s come a long way from the child who entered foster care at age 6.

Elina’s father was incarcerated soon after her birth; then, her mother left. She and her younger sibling entered the child welfare system, and it was a rocky journey. After several foster homes, Elina was adopted, but even there she faced abuse.

“I realized that if I wanted a chance at a somewhat normal life, I had to do something,” she said. “So, I did the only thing I knew how to do: I ran away.”

In the middle of her senior year of high school, Elina showed up on the steps of a homeless shelter and put herself back in foster care.

Elina was the keynote speaker at Steven Tyler's GRAMMY® Viewing Party and Gala in Los Angeles. The event raised $4.6 million for Janie's Fund, which supports LifeSet.

Elina and other young women who participated in the LifeSet Scholars program were honored guests at the Gala and walked the red carpet with Steven Tyler.

Elina continues on page 14

Volunteers from Southern Security and the U.S. Navy packed more than 400 backpacks for kids during our Backpack Heroes campaign, presented by Southern Security.

A VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE JUST FOR YOU

is such a rewarding job. Having the opportunity to invite volunteers into that space and share in the hard work our youth are doing is even better. Our youth truly enjoy seeing the faces of volunteers and love the opportunity to show what they are learning and how they are growing. Volunteering with Youth Villages takes on many forms. Whether you only have 30 minutes to spare or are wanting to bring your organization out for a large event, let us curate a volunteer experience for you or your organization.

Runners’ Club is one of the longstanding volunteer opportunities we have at Youth Villages. Runners and walkers are encouraged to join

encourage our youth to get moving. Runners’ Club is a chance to connect with our youth weekly. Our volunteers often find one or two youth who consistently want to walk or run with them. This is a chance to get to know them, provide an encouraging word and be a listening ear.

Birthday Heroes is a great opportunity for individuals, families or small groups to engage in a special way with an entire cottage or courtyard. Once you are matched with a residential group, you will have the opportunity to celebrate birthdays with them monthly. Birthday Heroes requires a $150 or in-kind donation monthly to ensure each birthday

is celebrated with snacks for the cottage and a present for the birthday boy/girl. Most of our youth are from outside of Memphis, so having someone around to celebrate with them while they are in residential treatment means the world to them. They look forward to Birthday Heroes all month.

We know our volunteers come to us with many areas of expertise, and we would love to give you the opportunity to share your knowledge through our Teach a Skill volunteering option. Our youth are thirsty for knowledge and would love to learn from you. Are you a painter, a chef or even a skilled yoga instructor? Come share your talents with us.

Last, but certainly not least, let Youth Villages create an event just for you. Whether you are an individual or group, our volunteer coordinator can work to curate an event that best suits you. Perhaps you want to participate in recreation activities planned by our amazing recreational staff or create something yourself. We can work together to create a plan.

Our volunteers from Watkins Uiberall recently participated in a therapeutic drumming course with Lead Instructor Michael Gordon and a group of youth from Bill’s Place. As this was their second visit with this group of boys, it was especially rewarding for WU employee Tori Pate.

“My favorite part of the day was being remembered by some of the boys from Bill’s Place. That made me realize how much of an impact someone can make by just coming around and hanging out,” Tori said. Tori is right. Volunteers engaging with our youth makes a great impact. Will you do your part? For more information about volunteering, contact Volunteer & Donor Engagement Coordinator Anna Otto at anna.otto@youthvillages.org.

YOUTH VILLAGES LAUNCHES MEMPHIS ALLIES TO REDUCE GUN VIOLENCE

Three teams made up of 26 outreach specialists, life coaches, case managers and clinicians are at work in Raleigh/Frayser.

Each murder causes a shockwave of pain and trauma that touches everyone who knew the victim and reverberates in so many ways throughout the community. Recent high-profile murders have touched us all, but lives are lost every day and each one is important.

Faced with the dramatic increase in homicides in Memphis—including the deaths of children—Youth Villages began putting our resources into finding evidence-based solutions. After 18 months of planning and research, we officially began the

Memphis Allies initiative in July with the goal of bringing together community groups and resources to reduce homicides by 30% over the next four years. That will save hundreds of lives.

The initiative is identifying, connecting and serving youth and adults at highest risk for gun violence—either as victims or perpetrators. Memphis Allies has nearly 40 staff members now and in four years, there will be almost 400 employees focused on making our community a safer place.

“We believe it’s possible to confront this violence, but it will take all of us,” Youth Villages CEO Patrick Lawler said. “In order to make lasting change, this movement to reduce gun violence needs broad community involvement and support.”

To see the latest Memphis Allies Progress Report, go to memphisallies.org/report2022 or email info@memphisallies.org to have a copy mailed to you or to request a presentation on gun violence and solutions for your organization or group.

LOOKING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?

Help make the holiday joyful for children and young adults in Youth Villages’ programs by becoming a Holiday Hero today! Individual, group and corporate supporters are all welcome. Everyone can be a hero. youthvillages.org/holidayheroes

Peyton Hill, Community Campaign Coordinator peyton.hill@youthvillages.org | 901-251-4976

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

From left to right: (adults) Matt and Sara Blaszczyk, Karen and Steve Jeffers, Chris and Natalie Jeffers; Scattered throughout: grand/children

A FAMILY PHILANTHROPIC AFFAIR

THEY’RE LOVIN’ YOUTH VILLAGES

In 2019, the Jeffers and Blaszczyk families packed up their lives in Illinois and moved to Memphis to grow their McDonald’s franchise business. They started off with seven locations throughout the city and have grown to nine. Karen, Steve and Sara found out about Youth Villages when they were driving through the Bartlett community to learn more about the city where they were opening a new location.

Since the day they toured Bill’s Place, the families have been “sold” on the work Youth Villages does. Their involvement is year-round, but the favorite for them is the Holiday Heroes program, which provides them—including the six grandchildren—the chance to give back to the kids in our care. The families take six Youth Villages kids and pair off to shop for them. The two oldest granddaughters are particularly thoughtful in their shopping, ensuring to get the most wanted items while staying on budget.

Why did you become involved with Youth Villages?

Steve Jeffers: Hearing the story of how Pat (Lawler) got everything started and how you’ve grown—not only here in the Bartlett and Memphis communities, but throughout the country—was so impressive. We knew we wanted to be involved.

Karen Jeffers: We were simply amazed at the facility and scope of work you all do with kids and families.

Chris Jeffers: I thought when we toured that I was going to come into a place that was dreary and not really a place you want to be. And then when I saw the facility, activities and state-of-the-art technology, I was blown away. I knew I wanted to be involved more.

What do you think sets Youth Villages apart in its work with children and families?

Steve Jeffers: I’m just impressed with the way you work with kids who have had such immense trauma in their lives. Youth Villages helps them not only get over the hump but also grow to become productive members in their communities.

Karen Jeffers: It’s only one piece, but I was amazed with the therapeutic drumming program and how it helps calm their minds and gets them in a different state so they can control their behaviors. It’s neat how you can use the neuro-science lab to scan their brains before and after drumming to see the actual difference.

Why do you personally support Youth Villages with your philanthropic investment?

Karen Jeffers: Sara [Jeffers] adopted two children and gave them opportunities they would have never had in their life otherwise. Knowing that other children out there aren’t as fortunate, we’re happy that Youth Villages is there helping kids overcome their trauma and become productive members in the community.

Steve Jeffers: With Sara’s experience, we all learned as a family what needs are out there for kids, and it gave us a real reason to get involved with Youth Villages.

Sara Jeffers Blaszczyk: The experience we had fostering, before we adopted, really opens your eyes to what’s lacking in communities. When we learned about all Youth Villages provides for the kids in your care, I was blown away. I know there are kids out there who don’t get adopted and don’t have the support they need to thrive. I am glad there’s a Youth Villages.

Why should someone consider becoming more involved with Youth Villages?

Steve Jeffers: Youth Villages is fulfilling a need in this community and communities across the country. There are more kids and young people who need this support. Try and get involved at whatever level you feel comfortable with. There are so many ways you can get involved, like attending Soup Sunday or being a Holiday Hero.

CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN

INNOVATOR

$100,000+

Anonymous AutoZone Plough Foundation

VISIONARY

$50,000 to $99,999

F&F Construction

First Horizon Foundation

Hyde Family Foundations

International Paper Foundation Mr. David Wedaman

LEADER

$10,000 to $24,999

Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance LLC Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Mike Bruns

Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie Randall

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Martin Ms. Sandra Watson

NexAir

The PeyBack Foundation Ticket to Dream Foundation

PROTECTOR

$5,000 to $9,999

Bluescope Foundation, N.A. Burchenal Family Foundation

Dr. and Mrs. Mark Jones

Higginbotham Insurance Agency

Lakeland Lions Foundation

Mark and Kay Prudhomme

Mr. and Mrs. Richard McKinley Roadshow BMW/ Roadshow Mini Watkins Uiberall PLLC

Champions continues on page 12

Champions continued

BUILDER $1,000 to $4,999

Anonymous Employee Giving

Amazon Smile

America’s Local Independent Charities of America

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee Community Pet Hospital LLC

Cummins

Downtown Memphis Commission

First Polestari of Marion

International Paper Corporation

Jeffers Enterprises Inc.

Michael and Sharon Goldstein

Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Pleas

Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Smith

Mr. and Mrs. Danny Lee

Mr. and Mrs. Gary Collins

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Pennington

Mr. and Mrs. Louis Loeb

Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie Aceto

Mr. and Mrs. Sean Fahy

Mr. Harry Freeman and Ms. Sara Ratner

Mr. John Fisher

Mr. John Price

Mrs. Carol Prentiss

Mrs. Estelle Sheahan

Mrs. Wight Boggs

Orion Federal Credit Union

Radian Guaranty Inc.

Regional One Health

Southern Security Federal Credit Union

The Canale Foundation Inc.

The Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation

The UPS Store - Cordova

TJX Foundation Inc.

Trinity Baptist Church

FRIEND $500 to $999

Anonymous Donor C.H. Robinson

CarMax Foundation

Data Facts Inc.

Dr. and Mrs. E. Arthur Franklin Horizon of Memphis Inc.

Kele Inc.

Moss Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Wells

Mr. and Mrs. H. Larry Hilbun

Mr. and Mrs. James Hamilton

Mr. and Mrs. Joel Stark

Mr. and Mrs. John Blose

Mr. and Mrs. Sid Phadke

Mr. and Mrs. Tate Rush

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Rieman

Mr. Gerald Laurain

Mr. Jason Gallop Mr. Kent Anderson

Mr. Matt Goudreau

Mr. Nathaniel Denson

Mrs. Dabney Wellford Ms. Melissa Barton Ms. Tamika Dearman Pfizer Inc.

MEMORIALS

Anne Coggin

Pat’s Pro Cut

Dave Crockett

Ms. Paula Paul

Mr. and Mrs. Larry Thurmon

Dr. Tim Goldsmith

Mr. and Mrs. James Williamson

Edith Musgrove Crye-Leike South Inc.

Jane Shaw Atkison Crye-Leike of Arkansas Inc.

Jerry Dean Crye-Leike South Inc.

Jill Terry Mr. and Mrs. Danny Lee

Marvin “Jim” Englert Crye-Leike South Inc.

Mimi Roy Pat’s Pro Cut

Mithilesh Shukla Ms. Teresa Shukla

Nan Green Emily and Brent Laird

Robert Gary Tunnell

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ireland

Robert L. Price Ms. Beverly Abston

Staci Gentry Wolford Mrs. Catherine Davis

Youth at Bartlett campus get ready for their Color Run sponsored by Signet.

HONORARIUMS

Alexandra Howard

Mr. Brett Davis

Alicia Porter

Jackie Bradshaw

Baird Lewis Family

Ms. Melissa Barton

David Schecter

Angela McCormack

Jerry L Burris

Rachel Lytle

Jon Wright

Mr. Matt Johnson

Katie Foster Jones

Mrs. Lora Boden

Kele Customer Generosity Kele Inc.

Owen Selders

Ms. Sarah Wiles

Patrick Lawler

Mr. and Mrs. H. Larry Hilbun

Sabrina Cera

Mr. Luke Brown

Tim Sere

Ms. Delaine Noe

Dogwood campus students during their graduation in June 2022.

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Midtown for its generous support of our Backpack Heroes campaign.

Elina is completing her master’s degree at the prestigious Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.

“Right at my lowest, I was introduced to the LifeSet program,” she said. “Through my group home, I was linked with a specialist who started our first meeting asking about the goals I wanted to achieve. Up until that moment, no one had asked me about what I wanted or needed.”

LifeSet helped Elina begin to think seriously about what she wanted to do with her life. “It provided me support every step of the way. From setting up a checking account to getting connected with quality mental health care... Having such a healthy and sustainable relationship with this program ultimately taught me that I am capable and worthy of connection and compassion and support.”

After graduating high school, Elina became a LifeSet Scholar, where LifeSet participants receive extra support from Youth Villages as they pursue higher education or vocational certification. In the program, Elina was matched with a Youth Villages staff member as a mentor. She completed a four-year degree with a double major in international studies and English literature and double minors in human rights and economics.

“I can say with confidence that without LifeSet, I simply would not have that accomplishment under my belt,” Elina said.

After graduation, Elina thought through what she wanted to do next with her specialist and mentor.

“I realized that I want to be part of the solutions in making our societies more just for the most vulnerable,” she said.

As she goes back to school this fall to complete her master’s degree, Elina will continue to receive support from the LifeSet Scholars program.

“I’m forever grateful to those who showed me love even when I felt unlovable and saw things in me that I couldn’t see myself. I’m here because of them,” she said.

Elina continued

GOLD KITE SPONSORS 40TH ANNIVERSARY SPONSORS

SILVER KITE

BRONZE KITE SPONSORS

YOUTH VILLAGES

3320 Brother Blvd. Memphis, TN 38133

(Address Service Requested)

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID YOUTH VILLAGES

Youth Villages is a private nonprofit that serves more than 36,000 children and their families each year from offices in the following cities:

Alabama: Auburn, Birmingham, Mobile

Arkansas: Jonesboro, Searcy, West Memphis (Fort Smith and Little Rock coming soon!)

Florida: Lakeland

Georgia: Atlanta, Douglasville

Indiana: Bloomington, Columbus, Indianapolis

Louisiana: Metairie

Kentucky: Lexington, Louisville/Jeffersonville (Indiana)

Massachusetts: Boston, Worcester, West Springfield, Raynham, Woburn (Cape Space coming soon!)

Mississippi: Biloxi, Greenwood, Hattiesburg, Hernando, Jackson, Meridian, Tupelo

New Hampshire: Manchester, Plymouth

North Carolina: Asheville, Boone, Charlotte, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Greenville, Louisburg, Raleigh-Durham, Waynesville, Wilmington

Ohio: Worthington

Oklahoma: Oklahoma City, Tulsa

Oregon: Bend, Portland, Salem

Tennessee: Chattanooga, Clarksville, Columbia, Cookeville, Dickson, Dyersburg, Jackson, Johnson City, Knoxville, Memphis, Morristown, Nashville, Paris Washington, D.C.

New Heights West Tennessee is published by Youth Villages

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