ON A GOOD NOTE

TEXT B Y APRIL ELIASON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAM

MEMPHIS ATHLETIC MINISTRIES

Founded in 1998, Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM) exists to coach, grow and lead the youth of Memphis by helping them discover their identity in Christ and their purpose in the community. MAM’s vision is to see identity found, hope restored and lives changed. Operating in eight high-needs neighborhoods across Memphis, MAM serves over 700 youth, ages eight to 18, daily through free after-school programming that includes athletics, Bible studies, academics and mentoring.

Year-round athletic programs allow youth to participate in basketball, flag football, volleyball, soccer and cheer/dance. High school students have the opportunity to participate in the Amplify Mentor Program. This program is designed to assist youth as they navigate their high school years and, more importantly, the transition to employment, military service or college. Youth enrolled in the program benefit from weekly training classes and a one-on-one mentor relationship with a caring adult.

MAM also offers a low-cost option for summer camp. Summer Academy consists of all-day academics, recreational activities and fun field trips for rising third- through eighth-grade students.

Every December, MAM hosts the annual MAM Christmas Store which helps families prepare for their Christmas celebration. Selected parents/guardians shop at Target, alongside MAM staff, to provide their kids with a memorable and special Christmas. In addition to receiving a Target gift card and household items, each shopper enjoys a meal, receives a Bible, and hears a message about the love and hope of Jesus Christ. The goal is to serve 110 MAM children this Christmas. To learn more or make

a donation, please visit mamsports.org/christmas.