Wraparound District 6 Powered by Community

Written by: JR Robinson

In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a transformative initiative is taking shape: Wraparound District 6. This innovative program, spearheaded by Commissioner Charlie A. Caswell Jr., represents a holistic approach to community development and support.

The Wraparound Concept

Wraparound is a comprehensive care model that brings together a team of relevant individuals to develop and implement an individualized plan of care. This approach is driven by the perspectives of families and youth, combining formal services with community support and interpersonal assistance.

District 6’s Unique Approach

Commissioner Caswell, elected in August 2022, has embraced the wraparound philosophy to address the diverse needs of District 6 residents. By leveraging the InfoHUB platform, he maintains open lines of communication with constituents, sharing important updates, community initiatives, and local events.

Key Components of Wraparound District 6

1. Community Engagement: The program emphasizes resident-driven solutions and grassroots efforts.
2. Collaborative Action: Stakeholders work together to translate the wraparound philosophy into concrete policies and practices.
3. Access to Services: The initiative aims to ensure residents can access needed supports and services, including evidence-based interventions.
4. Human Resource Development: Support for staff and partner agencies to fully implement the wraparound model.
5. Accountability: Mechanisms to monitor service quality, outcomes, and overall program effectiveness.

Impact on Education and Youth

Wraparound District 6 aligns with broader efforts in Memphis to support students holistically. The Shelby County School District’s Community Partnership Pilot has shown promising results, including:

• A 10 percentage point reduction in chronic absenteeism
• A 540% increase in students receiving preventative health screenings over two years

Community Development Focus

The program is part of a larger community development strategy in Memphis, which includes:

• Reinvesting in the Memphis Housing Trust Fund
• Implementing “complete streets” policies for pedestrian safety
• Restricting payday lenders through zoning interventions
• Developing a “zero waste” plan for Shelby County

Looking Ahead

As Wraparound District 6 continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of community-driven change. By addressing the interconnected needs of residents – from housing and health to education and economic opportunity – this initiative promises to create a more equitable and thriving District 6.

Through innovative leadership, collaborative partnerships, and a commitment to resident empowerment, Wraparound District 6 is truly powered by its community, setting a new standard for holistic neighborhood development in Memphis and beyond.

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