JUICE Orange Mound

Overview

JUICE Orange Mound is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering self-reliance and community engagement in Orange Mound, Memphis, Tennessee. Orange Mound is the oldest African American community in the City of Memphis, established in 1890.

Mission

The mission of JUICE Orange Mound is to develop and advance the self-reliance of Orange Mound and its larger community by building capacity and engagement among citizens and businesses. The organization aims to unite, empower, and support residents by finding and funding innovative project ideas.

History

JUICE Orange Mound was founded in December 2016 by a native of the community. The neighborhood has faced challenges since the 1980s, including drugs, crime, and economic decline. Despite these challenges, the organization seeks to leverage community resources to promote positive change.

Key Programs and Initiatives

• JUICE DAY: Quarterly events where residents are canvassed for spare change to fund community projects. This grassroots approach encourages community participation and demonstrates the potential of collective action.
• The Triad Approach: This strategy involves a street representative, a high school student, and a community partner working together to engage residents and build relationships. Street representatives serve as community navigators and mentors for students involved.
• Supporting Local Businesses: JUICE Orange Mound advocates for a reciprocal relationship between residents and businesses, encouraging residents to support local enterprises that contribute to the community.
• Addressing Homelessness: Through partnerships, such as with SoGiv, the organization aims to address homelessness in Orange Mound by advocating for the unhoused without displacing long-time residents.

Financials

As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, donations to JUICE Orange Mound are tax-deductible. The organization primarily relies on contributions for its revenue, with no reported liabilities.

Leadership and Governance

JUICE Orange Mound's leadership includes a diverse board of directors from various backgrounds, including education, healthcare, and community service. This diversity reflects the organization's commitment to engaging different sectors of the community.

Impact

JUICE Orange Mound's efforts aim to revitalize Orange Mound's historical prestige and promote self-sufficiency among its residents. By empowering the community and leveraging collective action, the organization seeks to create sustainable solutions to social challenges.