Saving Memphis by Supporting All

Mahal Burr and Evan Morrison became friends through Bridges USA and are now building bridges for Memphis youth facing adult crimes.

Graduate students Burr and Morrison are not excusing alleged crimes, but they are helping others realize that restorative justice is possible, equal treatment is deserved and everyone has potential.

Their work led to the development of Incarcerated Youth Speaking Out for Change (IYSOC), which is composed of youth awaiting trial in Shelby County.

IYSOC members receive training in leadership and public speaking to tell their stories in hopes of decreasing repeat offenses and creating a prison-to-opportunity pipeline.

— Renee Malone, KQ Communications