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The Christopher A. Pugh II Center proudly celebrates the successful completion of the first Transition to Unlocked Purpose cohort of 2026. This milestone marks the journey of 8 participants who committed themselves to growth, reflection, and transformation through our evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Intervention Program (CBIP). Throughout the program, participants engaged in a structured process designed to build strong foundations for lasting change. They strengthened l

Five participants in our Kings Who Cook program have officially earned their ServSafe Food Handler Certificates, marking a significant step forward in their culinary and career development journey. Through a combination of food safety and sanitation training and hands-on kitchen experience, participants gained practical skills in meal preparation while strengthening teamwork, time management, and workplace professionalism. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, discipl

The Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC) recently had the privilege of suiting several young men with interview-appropriate attire as they graduated from the Roots on the Ground Workforce Development Training Program through The Works, Inc. As they take their next steps back into the workforce, we were honored to equip them with professional clothing that reflects confidence, dignity, and readiness for opportunity. At CPC, we understand that preparation goes beyond skills tra

At the Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC), we recently had the honor of hosting a group of young men from Byhalia High School for a powerful day centered on connection, confidence, and community. What began as a visit quickly became a meaningful experience filled with intentional conversations, mentorship, and support. From sharing breakfast together to engaging with professionals who poured into them with wisdom and encouragement, the day reflected what is possible when a c

Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC) traveled from Memphis to Cleveland, Ohio, with nine incredible young men for a transformative experience at the Healing Across America: Season 1 Premiere at the historic Shaker Square Theatre. This moment marked more than just a premiere; it was a powerful intersection of storytelling, healing, and national recognition of journeys rooted in resilience. Hosted by Sharri and Anthony Thomas of Rivers in the Desert (RITD) , a community-led tra

Christopher A. Pugh II Center successfully hosted its annual Breaking Bread With My Brothers, bringing together young men, mentors, and community leaders for a powerful experience rooted in connection, encouragement, and personal growth. This year’s gathering was elevated by the presence of Memphis Mayor Paul Young, whose attendance underscored the importance of investing in the lives and leadership of young men across our city. His participation sent a powerful message that

During the fourth quarter, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center proudly celebrated the successful completion of the Cognitive Behavioral Intervention Program (CBIP) and Needs Assessment by 32 young men. This milestone marks a significant step forward in each participant’s personal and professional journey. Throughout the program, participants took part in structured sessions focused on emotional regulation, decision-making, conflict resolution, and goal-setting. These core areas

During the fourth quarter, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center proudly celebrated a major workforce milestone as four participants secured full-time employment with Ting. This achievement represents a meaningful step forward in CPC’s mission to prepare young men for long-term economic stability and career success. These employment outcomes reflect the strength of CPC’s integrated approach, which combines vocational training, Cognitive Behavioral Intervention programming, mentor

The Christopher A. Pugh II Center hosted a community-wide panel discussion featuring Shelby County Commission candidates, in partnership with the West Tennessee Women’s Political Caucus (WTNPC). This event brought residents and CPC participants together for a meaningful evening of civic dialogue and community engagement. CPC’s young men were allowed to observe and participate in democratic processes firsthand by hearing directly from candidates seeking public office. Through

Participants from the Christopher A. Pugh II Center attended the Iron & Integrity Gala, hosted by Tenita Freeman Ministries, where CPC served as an official partner sponsor. This event provided a meaningful platform for our young men to engage with community leaders in a formal, high-visibility setting. Several CPC participants were selected to present awards during the gala, a role that required confidence, professionalism, and public speaking. The young men represented th

This quarter, we proudly welcomed a new cohort into our Needs Assessment Class at the CPC Center. Through our evidence-based Cognitive...

This year, several of our CPC participants joined with peers across Memphis in the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) initiative,...

This quarter, Christopher’s Closet proudly prepared two groups of young men for life-changing milestones. In August, we welcomed...

On July 11, 2025, at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Westwood, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center, alongside our partners, gathered to celebrate...

The Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC) is proud to participate in the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) Project, a powerful...

Twenty-one young participants from Cohort 4 of the Community Reentry Reinvestment Grant (CRRG) Program marked a major milestone in their...

The Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC) hosted its annual signature fundraising event, Bowties & Blazers, on Saturday, June 14, at The...

On Friday, May 2nd, STS Enterprise Corporation and the University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing (LCON) partnered with the...

The Christopher A. Pugh II Center (CPC) is thrilled to announce a renewed show of support from Memphis Allies, an initiative of Youth...

At the Christopher A. Pugh II Center, we believe that knowledge is the foundation of empowerment and that belief came to life once again...