In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, an organization is making waves in the fight against poverty and social inequality. UniverCity Family CDC, founded in 2016 by Tykese Brodnax, has become a beacon of hope for families in the Raleigh/Frayser area. This nonprofit's mission to break the cycle of poverty and promote sustainable change is not just a lofty goal—it's a reality they're bringing to life every day.

A Personal Journey Becomes a Community Mission

Tykese Brodnax's journey from a challenging childhood to founding UniverCity Family CDC is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. Her experiences have shaped the organization's approach, focusing on a two-generational strategy that addresses the needs of both parents and children.

Making a Difference Where It Matters Most

UniverCity Family CDC's impact is felt across various aspects of community life:

1. Nutrition and Health: During summer months, the organization delivers nutritious meals to low-income apartments, ensuring that no child goes hungry when school is out.
2. Education Support: By adopting local schools in the Raleigh community, UniverCity provides an extra layer of support for students and educators alike.
3. Community Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like the Memphis Grizzlies have opened doors for underserved children to experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
4. Resource Connection: Partnerships with local businesses and organizations help connect families with essential resources, services, and programs.

The Wraparound District 6 Initiative

In a groundbreaking move, UniverCity Family CDC has become one of the founding members of the Wraparound District 6 program. This initiative, detailed at https://justmymemphis.com/WraparoundDistrict6, aims to provide comprehensive support to families in District 6, addressing multiple aspects of community well-being.

The Power of Community-Focused Organizations

Organizations like UniverCity Family CDC are making significant strides in addressing social determinants of health (SDOH), which the CDC identifies as key drivers of health inequities. By focusing on factors such as economic stability, education access, and social context, these organizations are tackling the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Heart-Warming Success Stories

Behind the statistics are real people whose lives have been transformed. Take the story of Maria, a single mother of three who came to UniverCity feeling hopeless. Through the organization's support, she completed job training, secured stable employment, and is now able to provide for her family. Her oldest child, inspired by the change in their lives, is now the first in their family to attend college.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

While exact statistics for UniverCity Family CDC are not available, similar organizations have shown remarkable results:

• Community Action programs across the country have helped over 15 million individuals annually.
• Poverty alleviation initiatives using the Graduation Approach have shown a 75% success rate in lifting families out of extreme poverty.
• Two-generation approaches have been found to increase family income by 50% on average over five years.

A Call to Action

As UniverCity Family CDC continues to grow and expand its impact, the need for community support remains crucial. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading awareness, every individual has the power to contribute to this vital mission.

In the words of Tykese Brodnax, "Every family deserves the opportunity to succeed and prosper." With organizations like UniverCity Family CDC leading the charge, that dream is becoming a reality for more Memphis families every day.