In the heart of Memphis, a non-profit organization is making a significant impact on the lives of young adolescents. UCAN of Memphis, which stands for You Can Achieve Now, is dedicated to mentoring, workforce readiness, and bullying awareness training. By providing essential skills and support, UCAN aims to foster positive growth within the community. This article explores the mission, approach, and inspiring story behind UCAN of Memphis, highlighting why readers should consider donating to this worthy cause.

Our Mission & Approach

UCAN of Memphis operates with a clear mission: to impact young adolescents through mentoring, workforce readiness, and bullying awareness training, ultimately bringing forth positive growth in the community. The organization recognizes the need to teach social responsibility, conflict resolution, and soft skills training for job retention. By offering effective training programs, UCAN equips young individuals with the tools to become successful communicators and responsible citizens.

The areas UCAN serves include the zip codes 38107, 38109, 38115, 38116, 38118, and 38125. These regions have demonstrated a significant need for career readiness and conflict resolution training. UCAN's programs are strategically designed to address these needs and empower teenagers within these communities.

Mentoring for Success

During a school year, UCAN of Memphis reaches out to 78 teenagers in six schools within the Shelby County School System. The primary goal is to provide mentorship, build positive self-respect, and support leadership training efforts. Educational programs offered by UCAN emphasize work-based learning and the development of essential soft skills. By preparing teens for future employment and encouraging their positive engagement in the community, UCAN plays a crucial role in shaping their futures.

UCAN's Impact

UCAN of Memphis has witnessed success in increasing awareness of the power of positive self-respect through mentoring and coaching life skills. One of the organization's core focuses is anti-bullying tactics, tailor-made to meet the unique needs of the teenagers they serve. UCAN strives to create a safe and supportive environment where young individuals can thrive, overcoming the challenges they face at school and home.

Our Story

UCAN of Memphis was born out of the determination and compassion of its co-founders, Leshundra Robinson and Ms. Kight. Leshundra, driven by her desire to make a difference in her former neighborhood in North Memphis, returned to the community and formed UCAN. The inspiration behind the organization's establishment came from a personal experience involving a young basketball player.

Leshundra and Ms. Kight's sons played on the same basketball team at the Hollywood Community Center, where they encountered a talented yet troubled young man. Recognizing his potential, they discovered that he lacked the necessary support and guidance in his life. Determined to be his support system, they helped him find the resources he needed to succeed. The young man's transformation was remarkable, receiving recognition as the Most Valuable Player and Most Improved player at the end of the season.

Witnessing the impact they had on this young individual's life, Leshundra and Ms. Kight were inspired to form an organization that could positively influence the lives of many more youth. Thus, UCAN was born, reflecting their belief that with guidance and support, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of their zip code or economic background.

Why Donate to UCAN of Memphis?

The youth in Memphis cannot be ignored. Their voices, dreams, and aspirations deserve our attention and support. By donating to UCAN of Memphis, you can contribute to the empowerment of young adolescents, helping them overcome obstacles, develop essential life skills, and build a brighter future for themselves and their community.

Your contribution will enable UCAN to continue its valuable work, click here to donate today!