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As the workforce continues to evolve, so does CPC's commitment to preparing young men for where it's headed. This September, select participants joined the current cohort of Thinkers and Doers' Data & AI Mentorship Program, founded by DeNisha Malone. The program gives participants exposure to career readiness training, data and AI concepts, and real, hands-on project experience; doors that many young men their age never even know exist. For a generation entering a workforce i

Growth doesn't only happen in a classroom; sometimes it happens on a studio set, at a waterfall, or in the middle of a city festival. This quarter, CPC made sure participants had all three. In July, participants in CPC's Film & Production Program toured WKNO-TV Studios, getting a behind-the-scenes look at professional television production. The visit gave participants real-world insight into the media and entertainment industry, while reinforcing how creativity, technology, a

No young man builds a future alone, and this quarter, CPC leaned further into that truth by strengthening its network of community partnerships. In July, representatives from Agape Child & Family Services, Families Matter, and HEAL 901 joined CPC participants for interactive sessions focused on family strengthening, counseling services, mentorship, personal development, and access to essential community resources. These conversations exposed participants to support systems bu

Being workforce-ready isn't only about skill; it's about showing up with confidence, too. This quarter, Christopher's Closet lived out that belief in several ways. In July, CPC participants attended the Dress for Success & Interview 101 event hosted by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., receiving training on interview techniques, professional etiquette, and career readiness. To reinforce the lesson, the Center donated professional men's attire, giving participants and other job

This quarter, a cohort of young men at the Christopher A. Pugh II Center completed the Kings Who Cook program, and every single one of them walked away with more than a new skill; they earned their ServSafe certification, a nationally recognized credential in food safety. Throughout the program, participants built real, practical culinary skills, including food preparation, knife techniques, plating, and kitchen safety, while also developing confidence and discipline in a han

This quarter, nine young men at the Christopher A. Pugh II Center reached an important milestone: completing the Center's Foundational Development Program after eight consistent weeks of training. Throughout the program, participants engaged in Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBIP), financial literacy instruction, mentorship, and basic computer skills training, building the foundation they'll carry into every opportunity ahead of them. It's not just a curriculum; it's a mi

More than 70 young people experienced an unforgettable evening of discovery and fun during Adventure Night with CPC, one of this summer's featured Safer Shelby Summer Nites events. Hosted at the Adventure Museum, the event gave teens the opportunity to engage in interactive exhibits, tackle team challenges, explore science and technology, and connect with peers in a safe, welcoming environment. For many participants, the evening was more than just a field trip; it was an oppo

This June, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center welcomed a new class of eight young men into its Film & Production Pre-Apprenticeship Program, continuing its mission to equip young men with the skills and opportunities needed for long-term success. Delivered in partnership with WKNO, the program provides participants with hands-on training and exposure to the world of film and media production. Through expert instruction, practical learning experiences, and industry mentorship,

This quarter, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center celebrated the successful graduation of 16 young men from our eight-week Foundational Development Class. This milestone marks more than the completion of a program. It represents a commitment to personal growth, resilience, and a brighter future. Throughout the eight-week journey, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum designed to build the knowledge, life skills, and confidence needed to succeed both personally and

In April, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center partnered with Rivers In The Desert NEO to host Healing Across America, a powerful gathering that provided young men with a safe and supportive environment to share their experiences, build meaningful connections, and begin the journey toward healing. Facilitated by Rivers In The Desert NEO, the event encouraged open dialogue around personal challenges, resilience, and emotional well-being. Participants were given the opportunity to

This quarter, participants in the Christopher A. Pugh II Center's Kings Who Cook program reached an important milestone by earning their ServSafe Food Handler Certificates, bringing them one step closer to successful careers in the culinary industry. The nationally recognized certification equips participants with essential food safety knowledge and industry best practices, preparing them to meet employer expectations and pursue employment with confidence. More than a credent

Every year, the Christopher A. Pugh II Center gathers supporters, partners, and community leaders for an evening that celebrates more than fashion; it celebrates the people and organizations committed to changing lives across Memphis. On June 20, Bowties & Blazers 2026 once again brought that vision to life under this year's inspiring theme, "Hands to the Community. Curated in Style." Hosted at The Guest House at Graceland, the evening united nonprofit leaders, corporate spon

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