When the Basics Aren't Basic: A Real Conversation on Jobs, Stability, & Survival

Overview

This community conversation invites residents and partners across District 7 to come together and discuss ways to secure the necessities that ensure living a high quality of life. What options do residents have to go from surviving to thriving? Held at the Binghampton Community Life Center, this event will bring together residents to connect them with workforce and business experts, experienced educational and vocational professionals, non-profit, faith, and government leaders to develop a strong financial network for cross-generational advancement.

Whether it’s preparing young people for the future or helping adults upskill for better-paying jobs, this is a space for collaboration and action. Together, we’ll look at the barriers that hold families back—and the community-driven solutions that can move us forward.

Why This Matters

Residents in Commission District 7 (Binghampton, Frayser, Douglass, Hollywood, Springdale and other area throughout the district) continue to express concern about the lack of quality jobs in their community. As industries change and community needs evolve, residents are looking for clearer, more accessible options that connect them to employment and provide long-term economic security for themselves and generations to come.

This event is a response to that call—to listen, to learn, and to lead together on closing opportunity gaps that affect us all.

What to Expect:

Expert Insights – Hear from experts and workforce development professionals for all ages, including youth, about challenges, current opportunities, and promising practices.
Community Conversations – Share your personal experiences, reflect on barriers, and discuss ideas for creating more equitable access to job, careers, or starting a successful business.
Resource Fair – Explore opportunities for job training, adult education, youth programs, mentorship, and more.
Action Planning – Collaborate on strategies to better align existing workforce and employment efforts, and build momentum for change in District 11.

Who Should Attend?

This conversation is open to all District 7 residents and community stakeholders, including families, students, youth, young adults, educators, church groups, workforce providers, employers, and neighborhood associations. If you care about expanding opportunity in your community, your voice belongs in this conversation.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Location: Binghampton Community Life Center, 3079 Crystal Ave., Memphis, TN 38112
Networking, Resource Fair, & Dinner: 5:00 – 5:30 PM
Community Conversation: 5:30 – 7:30 PM

About the Host: The Connector Program

The Connector Program is a Shelby County Government initiative that helps bridge the gap between residents and the resources that support thriving communities. By creating spaces for connection, education, and action, the program works across all 13 County Commission districts to ensure every voice is heard and every neighborhood is seen.

A Community Conversation with the Connector Program - Binghampton