Community Treasure Hunt Research Paper

Community Treasure Hunt
The Hispanic Community of Memphis Tennessee
By
Amanda Emerson
Our Lady of the Lake University
SOWK6325

Abstract
This paper explores the Hispanic community in Memphis, Tennessee specifically an area known as Hickory Hill, which is about ten miles outside of the downtown city limit. Memphis has been well known for their major community problems since the town was founded in 1819, including crime, poverty, and gang activity. Tennessee has been called the laziest state in the Nation due to the high amount of people on welfare, and has also been known to be the most dangerous city in the US due to it’s high homicide rate and violent crimes. There is however amazing aspects about the city, Tennessee is known
The atmosphere was very warm and inviting. I waited in the lobby about twenty minutes as the lady at the front desk was speaking on the phone. After she hung up, she was very friendly and went to get Ms. Fabiola Cervantes, as we had a scheduled appointment and had light communication through emails for about a week. After meeting with Ms. Cervantes I learned all about Latino Memphis, it’s clients, and what the agency provides for the community. Latino Memphis’s purpose is “We assist Latinos in the Greater Memphis area by connecting, collaborating and advocating for health, education and justice.” (Latino Memphis and Ebiz Solutions). They offer many different services at “El Centro” or the center, this is where Latino immigrants in the Memphis area can turn to for help of all kinds, including but not limited to, access to computers, assistance filling out any kind of government form or job application, clerical support, discussions with police officers about their rights and how to report crimes. “Tu Voz” is an ear, a voice, and an agent of change on issues impacting the Spanish speaking community of the Memphis area. Through advocacy, policy research, training and civic engagement activities, Tu Voz helps the Latino community to become more engaged and influential in the
Inside there is a single desk and receptionist with nothing else available. The woman is very kind and politely asks what kind of services I am looking for. The services offered are based on need and appointments only; we are open regular business hours unless you are doing a group therapy session, which you can only attend if the therapist refers you. The types of services offered range from parenting services to anti bullying services. Their motto states, “At The Exchange Club Family Center there is help that restores the hopes and dreams of children and adults affected by child abuse, family violence, or traumatic family transitions. The Center offers programs to help both children and adults understand these behaviors and gain the support they need to cope with difficult family situations. Each of these programs improves life skills, helping children and adults learn to modify behaviors, improve self-esteem and deal with anger.” (Exchangeclub.net). All cultures in the Memphis area are served here, however, there are more Hispanic and African American clients served. Services can be billed to any kind of insurance including Medicaid and are also based on a sliding scale for specific services that insurance will not cover.