Empowering Futures: CRRG Cohort Celebrates Success

At the Christopher A. Pugh II Center, we believe that knowledge is the foundation of empowerment and that belief came to life once again as we celebrated the successful completion of the second cohort of our Community Reentry Reinvestment Grant (CRRG) participants in the Financial Literacy and Life Skills program, a transformative initiative offered in collaboration with Shelby County Juvenile Court and the Greater Memphis Chamber.

Launched in December 2024, this program provided young participants with the tools and skills necessary to navigate both their financial and personal lives with confidence. Over several weeks, these youth learned how to create and manage budgets, handle financial accounts, and make informed financial decisions—skills that will serve them well for a lifetime.

However, financial literacy is just one piece of the puzzle. Recognizing that personal well-being is essential to success, the program also integrated emotional regulation techniques, helping participants develop the self-awareness and resilience needed to face life’s challenges.

As we mark the conclusion of this cohort, we celebrate not just the lessons learned but the transformation we have witnessed in each participant. With a stronger grasp of financial responsibility and emotional resilience, these young individuals are now better equipped to build brighter, more stable futures.

Beyond the core curriculum, the participants also enjoyed a range of enriching experiences. They were hosted at a men-only brunch by Brown Baptist Church, enjoyed Super Bowl LIX courtesy of J&M Logistics, and attended a live Grizzlies game courtesy of YMCA Memphis, exposing them to the excitement and energy of professional sports, potentially sparking new interests and aspirations. They also participated in Teen Night at the YMCA, received clinical screenings and mental health assessments by Customized Medical Needs, and enjoyed outings to Chick-fil-A and Cheesecake Boss.

We are immensely proud of this milestone and grateful to our partners at Shelby County Juvenile Court, Brown Baptist Church, J&M Logistics, YMCA Memphis, and Customized Medical Needs for their dedication to making this program a success. The journey doesn’t end here—CPC remains committed to empowering youth, fostering growth, and shaping futures.