Who We Are
Born and based in Memphis, we’re combining local leadership with national expertise to build a network of gun violence intervention programs rooted in the community, guided by data and proven to work. We believe real safety begins with real relationships. We collaborate with trusted local groups, churches, schools, businesses, foundations and government leaders.
Our Mission
Working together, we believe Memphis can reduce homicides by 30% in the next four years.
We believe every family deserves to feel safe. Every child deserves to grow up and grow old. And every neighborhood in Memphis has the potential to thrive.
Our Vision for a Safer Future
Reach more than 1,000 youth and adults at the highest risk of gun violence.
Support healing across generations by addressing the root causes of violence.
Build a future where opportunity outweighs trauma.
This is long-term, systems-level work, and we’re doing it hand in hand with our city’s most affected communities.
Doing the Work
In the neighborhoods hardest hit by gun violence, Memphis Allies is already saving lives. Our data-backed programs are expanding rapidly, reaching more people and building more trust with each passing month.
We believe the solution to community safety lies within the community itself.
The Team
Leadership
Susan
Deason
Executive Director
With more than 30 years at Youth Villages, Susan has built and led several of the organization’s most successful programs, including LifeSet™. She brings both clinical expertise and community vision to Memphis Allies.
Carl
Davis
Managing Director of Operations
With more than 30 years at Youth Villages, Susan has built and led several of the organization’s most successful programs, including LifeSet™. She brings both clinical expertise and community vision to Memphis Allies.
A Memphis native, Carl has been a leader at Youth Villages for more than a decade. He still lives in the Raleigh/Frayser neighborhood, where he mentors youth through local sports programs.
What can you do?
Gun violence affects all of us. Whether you volunteer, donate, spread the word or join a local event, your support matters. Together, we can create safer streets, stronger neighborhoods and a brighter future for the next generation.
Get Involved
We can’t do this alone. Whether you’re a neighbor, nonprofit, donor, policymaker or parent, there’s a role for you in creating a safer and stronger Memphis.