Memphis, August 12, 2025
News Summary
U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn held a roundtable at PURE Academy to discuss the role of afterschool programs in combating youth crime in Memphis. The event featured key stakeholders from local organizations such as Youth Villages and the Boys and Girls Club, who shared insights on addressing juvenile crime and enhancing opportunities for young people. Blackburn’s push for the ‘After-School Act’ aims to provide greater access to grants for these essential programs. Criticism arose over the event’s limited media access, but participants appreciated the candid discussions about youth challenges in the community.
MEMPHIS โ U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn held a private roundtable discussion on August 11 at PURE Academy, focusing on the critical role that afterschool programs can play in addressing youth crime in Memphis. The roundtable, which followed her attendance at a memorial service for FedEx founder Fred Smith, included stakeholders from Youth Villages, the Boys and Girls Club of Memphis, and the YMCA.
As Blackburn paves the way for her campaign for the Tennessee governorship in 2026, she stressed her dedication to supporting “the little guy” and enhancing opportunities for the youth in the community. She expressed the importance of collaboration among local organizations to tackle issues related to juvenile crime and sought input on how federal assistance could better support these initiatives.
Blackburn’s advocacy for youth programs aligns with her support for legislation like the “After-School Act,” which aims to increase access to grants for afterschool programs operating during the critical hours of 3-6 p.m., an essential time when young people are most vulnerable to crime.
Despite the private nature of the event, which limited media access to audio recordings but allowed video, critics voiced concerns that the roundtable should have been more open to the public dialogue. PURE Academy founder Melvin Cole, however, appreciated the setting for fostering candid discussions about the challenges faced by youth in Shelby County.
In addition to addressing youth crime, Blackburn discussed her broader agenda as she aligns with President Trumpโs policies, including the decentralization of power to the states. She assured attendees that “no one in Tennessee is going to lose Medicaid benefits” and indicated that Medicaid spending is expected to increase over time. Nonetheless, she proposes implementing work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults to qualify for Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
During her visit to Memphis, Blackburn also highlighted job creation and energy initiatives in the area, referencing developments such as xAI and BlueOval City. Her campaign emphasizes building a robust energy base that includes coal, nuclear, and geothermal sources. Local GOP leaders attended the roundtable, marking part of her campaign strategy meant to engage Tennesseeโs voters directly.
Senator Blackburn made history in 2018 as the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Tennessee, paving the way for her current run for governor. As she embarks on this journey, her focus on youth crime and the subsequent need for effective afterschool programs remains at the forefront of her campaign efforts.
Key Highlights of the Roundtable
- Private discussion aimed at addressing youth crime through afterschool programs.
- Attendance by stakeholders from organizations like Youth Villages, Boys and Girls Club of Memphis, and YMCA.
- Blackburnโs sponsorship of the “After-School Act” to enhance grant access.
- Discussion of broader initiatives including job creation and energy development.
FAQ
What was the focus of the roundtable discussion hosted by Senator Blackburn?
The focus was on the importance of afterschool programs in combating youth crime in Memphis.
Who attended the roundtable discussion?
Stakeholders from Youth Villages, the Boys and Girls Club of Memphis, the YMCA, and local GOP leaders were present.
What legislation is Blackburn sponsoring?
She is sponsoring the “After-School Act” to increase grant access for afterschool programs operating between 3-6 p.m.
What are Blackburn’s broader campaign goals?
Her campaign goals include addressing juvenile crime, enhancing youth opportunities, promoting job creation, and supporting energy initiatives.
How does Blackburn plan to approach Medicaid spending in Tennessee?
She assures that Medicaid spending will increase and proposes work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults to receive benefits.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Roundtable Discussion | Focused on youth crime and afterschool programs. |
| Key Stakeholders | Includes Youth Villages, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA. |
| Legislation | Sponsorship of the ‘After-School Act’ |
| Campaign Goals | Addressing youth crime, job creation, energy initiatives. |
| Medicaid Policy | Increased spending with proposed work requirements. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5: Senator Blackburn Hosts Roundtable on Youth Programs
- Commercial Appeal: Blackburn Discusses Crime and Healthcare Cuts
- Local Memphis: Blackburn Announces Run for Governor
- Fox 13 Memphis: Blackburn Joins Governor Race
- Wikipedia: Marsha Blackburn
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
