History

JIFF was formally launched in 2005, under the leadership of Rick Carr. Rick had been leading a local chapter of Youth For Christ, when he and the board launched JIFF as a way to provide Christ centered intervention to an extreme number of youth caught in Memphis’ juvenile justice system. Rick led the intervention efforts of JIFF until May 2014, during which time he and the board oversaw a three million dollar renovation and expansion of the JIFF facility.

JIFF Program Model — Addresses and reduces juvenile crime and violence in Memphis by providing four programs which lend support and intervention to youth through a focused, individualized, and holistic approach. These programs are classroom-based with an emphasis on The Six H's: Head, Heart, Health, Home, Hire-ability, and Hobbies. Outside of the classroom, JIFF participants experience field-trips, opportunities for workforce training, one-on-one time with case mentors, and assistance in making daily positive steps. The goal is to work with court-referred youth in order to reduce recidivism, facilitate effective reentry, and plan for the future.

The JIFF Building on Lauderdale — JIFF purchased the Abe Scharff building from the YMCA in 2007. After a successful building campaign and subsequent renovation, the new JIFF facility opened in 2009. With a commercial kitchen, a dining room, full gymnasium, a workout room, an education department and offices, JIFF is presently able to work with over 300 youth each year. With increased capacity and support, JIFF is poised to help up to 700 youth each year.

Community Partnerships
Collaborating with other Memphis partners to enlarge the vision of the youth and introduce them to opportunities outside of their current perspective.