Memphis Athletic Ministries

Founded in 1998, Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM) exists to coach, grow, and lead the youth of Memphis by helping them discover their identity in Christ and their purpose in the community. MAM's vision is to see identity found, hope restored, and lives changed.

Core Values

• Christ-centered, relational ministry – We model/glorify Christ in/through relationships we build.
• Urban youth focus – We serve youth and their families in under-resourced neighborhoods.
• Loving/safe/fun environment – We create a safe haven for youth to grow and develop.
• Holistic development programming – We build the body, mind and spirit of our youth.
• Godly community influence – We impact our city through the power of the gospel.

MAM Programs

MAM uses a variety of means to attract youth into our centers and introduce them to the life-changing power of the Gospel. Our Christ-centered programs are used to teach life lessons and help our youth grow in their faith.

Youth Leadership Teams (Discipleship Groups)

Youth who are interested in getting more deeply involved in MAM programs participate on youth leadership teams. These groups spend more intentional time participating in a variety of events including Bible studies, sports, academics, social activities and community service projects. MAM staff provide the deeper level of discipleship with these youth.

After School

Our seven neighborhood centers provide a safe environment for youth to socialize and enjoy recreation every day after school. Each day youth participate in recreation, games, and devotionals in a structured, safe environment with adult role models and supervision.

Bible Studies

Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ to every young person is fundamental to achieving MAM’s mission. MAM staff spend intentional time discussing Christian values and teaching Scripture. The goal is for every youth to understand how God’s truth makes a difference in his or her daily life.

Team Sports

Sports offered to our youth include basketball, soccer, volleyball, golf, cheerleading, and flag football. Team participation gives youth exposure to other segments of the greater Memphis area by playing outside their neighborhoods. 

Homework Help and Literacy Program

Our academic program teaches boys and girls to become more diligent and hard-working in their studies to succeed in high school and beyond. MAM provides daily homework help and reading literacy for elementary and middle school participants. Through our partnership with Literacy Mid-South, students are improving their reading comprehension and vocabulary. We believe that our youth must be able to read and understand scripture in order to grow in faith in Jesus Christ. 

Amplify Mentor Program

AMP helps develop critical social skills, encourages academic achievement, and gives our youth a sense of belonging. Students benefit from a one-on-one relationship with a caring adult who helps them navigate their high school years, and more importantly, the transition from high school to employment, military, or college. This program consists of character development, setting goals, ACT prep, college prep, and career readiness training (interviewing techniques, soft job skills, resume writing, and more).

Community Programs

Community Sports Leagues

Our community sports leagues serve youth in Memphis and the metropolitan area by offering a way to connect the different cultures that make up our city and its suburbs. Through numerous alliances with local churches, schools, and other community organizations, MAM offers community basketball leagues year round.