Youth Voices for Change: CPC Youth Lead the Way in Gun Violence Research

This year, several of our CPC participants joined with peers across Memphis in the Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) initiative, coordinated by Memphis Allies with Project Stand, Pursuit Center, and SWITCH Youth.

From March through August, these incredible young people dedicated over four hours a week to tackling one of our city’s greatest challenges, youth violence. They gathered community input, analyzed data, and developed strategies to create safer pathways for Memphis youth.

On August 23rd, they proudly presented their findings at the brand-new Frayser Library, during a community celebration attended by families, partners, and supporters. The presentations included both research data and personal reflections, giving young people directly impacted by gun violence the opportunity to share their stories, call for change, and shape the solutions.

The youth’s research is also featured in a Data Walk at Frayser Library, where it remained on display through mid-September. Their message was clear and powerful: 💡 Every adult can commit to one young person, stay with them through challenges, and show them positive ways forward.

We couldn’t be prouder of our CPC youth who stepped up to lead, to speak out, and to be a voice for transformation in Memphis. Their courage reminds us that when youth are empowered, communities are transformed.