| Dear Family,
Selecting guest speakers for our annual Collaborate & Celebrate event is always a highlight for me. Hosted by Families Matter, the event celebrates program participants and recognizes our partners and collaborating organizations. It is a festive occasion honoring everyone who contributes to Families Matter. Please plan on joining us next year for this amazing event. The day and time will be advertised early in 2027.
This year, one of the speakers was a young woman taught by one of our “Connections” instructors in high school. Her choices were leading her toward an undesirable path, and she doubted her ability to make good decisions because of her home environment. Her teacher, recognizing her potential, encouraged her to speak with our instructor, hoping to guide her toward a better direction. Her powerful story captivated the audience, and her delivery was impressive. It’s always uplifting when sharing your story results in a happy ending.
Her story continues as this young lady has now secured a position with Memphis Shelby County Schools as a Classroom Instructor. She wrote the following note to the Families Matter Instructor, Mr. Patrick Batson: “Hey, Mr. Patrick. Hope all is well. I just wanted to share some exciting information with you. I appreciate you so much for pushing me and believing in me. I promise to pour into my future scholars everything you poured into me. Hope you enjoy your day.”
When this information was shared with me, it solidified that Families Matter is making a difference in the lives of the people we serve. I am so thankful to be a part of something meaningful while we serve youth, families, boys, and men in this work. Congratulations to Mr. Batson on his work and to all Families Matter staff members who strive to provide excellence to the students and families served. In many areas, our training may seem difficult, and it takes time and effort to build relationships where people listen. However, what we have found is that faithful discipline always produces a harvest.
Please continue to follow and support Families Matter as we strive to Strengthen Families, Change Lives, and Transform Memphis. Your continued support is what makes life changes possible. Our vision is to support the creation of healthy, loving, and caring families where hope is alive, and all family members flourish. |