The Promise

Mentoring Youth | Strengthening Families | Transforming Memphis

A group of students and a woman, possibly a teacher, are gathered in a school hallway. The woman, wearing glasses and a blue shirt, has her hand raised and appears to be participating in an activity with the students.

Urban Promise 901 exists to transform lives by equipping youth and families with hope, opportunity, and purpose through mentorship, education, leadership development, and community partnerships. To date, our impact includes:

  • 300+ Students Mentored

  • 1,000+ Families Served

  • 100+ Community Volunteers Mobilized

  • 18,000+ Volunteer Hours Invested Annually

  • Dozens of Community Partnerships

Our Story

What Our People Say

  • “From the very beginning, Urban Promise 901 made my granddaughter feel welcomed, valued, and like she truly belonged. As her grandmother, it gave me such peace knowing that she was surrounded by people who cared about her, encouraged her, and wanted to see her succeed. What I appreciated most was that she wasn't just given something to do, she was given opportunities to grow. Through Urban Promise 901, she was able to participate in leadership activities, build confidence, develop relationships, and discover that her voice mattered. As a grandmother, you want your grandchildren to have positive people in their lives who will reinforce what you're trying to teach them at home. That's what I found in Urban Promise 901. They welcomed our family, believed in my granddaughter, and helped her see more of the leader she could become. I will always be grateful for the impact they've had on her life.”

    —Grandmother, Urban Promise 901

  • “I'm proud that my family has had the opportunity to be a part of Urban Promise 901. It has also been an awesome experience getting to know Mr. Litzsey, his wife, their family, and their Word Church family. Urban Promise 901 is truly building bridges to the next generation and making a positive difference in the lives of young people and families.”

    —Benny Page, Urban Promise 901 Parent

  • “Becoming a father at 17 meant I had to grow up quickly, and Urban Promise 901 has been there to help me along the way. They didn't just tell me how to be a better father—they worked with me, encouraged me, and helped me understand the responsibility of being present and providing for my child. Urban Promise 901 also helped me think seriously about my future. They encouraged me to go through vocational training and helped me take steps toward getting a job and being able to provide for my family. What means the most to me is that they didn't give up on me. They saw more in me and helped me see more in myself. Urban Promise 901 has helped me become a better young man, a better father, and someone who is working toward a better future for my child.”

    —Delvon Rhodes, Urban Promise 901 Participant & Young Father

Join Us

We believe everyone has something to offer. Whether you donate, volunteer, become a mentor, or something else, our youth and families would love your support.

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Invest In Their Future ▸

Make a donation or set up a small monthly gift.

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Get Involved ▸

Pray, volunteer, and discover more ways to partner with us.

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Recent Updates ▸

See the latest news and photos from our Memphis community.