Written by: JR Robinson

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur before the age of 18, including various forms of abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. In Memphis, where poverty rates and crime statistics often exceed national averages, many children face multiple ACEs, putting them at higher risk for long-term health and social problems.

Dr. Charlie Caswell, Founder of Legacy of Legends CDC, has been at the forefront of addressing ACEs in the Memphis area. "The impact of ACEs on our youth is profound," Dr. Caswell states. "We're seeing higher rates of substance abuse, mental health issues, and even chronic diseases linked to childhood trauma."

Main ACEs Facing Memphis Youth

• Poverty: With a child poverty rate of 44.7% (48.9% for black children), many Memphis children experience economic instability.
• Violence: High crime rates expose children to community violence and domestic abuse.
• Substance Abuse: Parental substance abuse is a significant issue in many households.
• Incarceration: Many children have a parent who is or has been incarcerated.

Legacy of Legends CDC, under the leadership of Executive Director Tiara Caswell, is making a significant impact through its holistic approach to addressing ACEs. The organization provides wraparound services through its Legacy Family Connect Centers, utilizing a two-generation approach to help both children and parents overcome traumatic experiences.

Dr. Caswell emphasizes the importance of community involvement in addressing ACEs. "We can't do this alone," he says. "It takes a village, and that's where our 7P's Community Council comes in."

The 7P's Community Council

The 7P's Community Council is a cornerstone of Legacy of Legends CDC's Asset Based Community Development strategy. This approach recognizes that sustainable change comes from within the community itself. The 7P's represent:

• Pastors: Spiritual leaders who can provide guidance and support.
• Politicians: Local leaders who can influence policy and allocate resources.
• Police Officers: Law enforcement who can help create safer communities.
• Principals: Educators who can identify at-risk children and implement supportive programs.
• Parents: The primary caregivers who need support and resources.
• Proprietors: Local business owners who can provide economic opportunities and support.
• Partners: Other organizations and individuals committed to community development.

"By bringing together these key stakeholders," Dr. Caswell explains, "we create a network of support that can address ACEs from multiple angles. It's not just about intervention; it's about prevention and building resilience within our community."

The 7P's approach has shown promising results. By fostering collaboration between different sectors of the community, Legacy of Legends CDC has been able to implement more comprehensive and effective programs to address ACEs.

For example, partnerships with local schools have led to the implementation of trauma-informed education practices. Collaboration with law enforcement has resulted in community policing initiatives that aim to reduce violence and build trust. Local businesses have stepped up to provide job training and employment opportunities for at-risk youth and their parents.

"We're seeing real change," Dr. Caswell notes. "Children who were once struggling are now thriving. Parents are finding the support they need to break cycles of trauma. It's slow work, but it's transformative."

As Memphis continues to grapple with the impact of ACEs, the work of organizations like Legacy of Legends CDC offers hope. By recognizing the interconnected nature of community issues and leveraging the strengths of various stakeholders, they are creating a model for addressing childhood trauma that could have far-reaching implications.

The journey to a trauma-informed, resilient Memphis is ongoing, but with dedicated leaders like Dr. Caswell and Executive Director Tiara Caswell, along with innovative approaches like the 7P's Community Council, the future looks brighter for the city's children.