Pastor leads efforts to get to the root of crime in Shelby County and Memphis

A Commitment to Change

The passionate Rev. Dr. Earle Fisher, pastor of Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church in Whitehaven, is leading new efforts to find the root causes of crime in Memphis and Shelby County. Currently, individuals who’ve been involved in crimes are encouraged to participate in a survey that aims to provide insights into their experiences and what factors influenced their criminal choices. Dr. Fisher is confident that this data, rich with personal stories and firsthand experiences, is an essential puzzle piece in finding long-term solutions to crime.

Crucial Collaborations

Dr. Fisher’s initiative, known as the V.O.I.C.E.S project – Vital Observations on Individuals’ Criminal Experiences and Stories, is backed by a series of influential allies. He has partnered with the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, the Office of Re-entry, Just City, and The Ben. F. Jones Chapter of the National Bar Association, among others. This congregation of dedicated institutions and individuals is firmly committed to unravelling why specific crimes are committed, banking on the belief that understanding is the first step in effecting sustainable change.

Gathering Data, Gathering Hope

65 surveys have already been filled, and the aim is to reach at least 200 in the coming weeks. The ultimate goal is collecting as many as 1,000 responses, a milestone that Dr. Fisher believes will provide a robust data set for analysis. By granting these participants a voice, the V.O.I.C.E.S project hopes to shift preconceived notions on crime and those who commit it. By seeking to understand their stories, they affirm the humanity behind the statistics, paving a different path in addressing crime issues.

Change on the Horizon

Dr. Fisher hopes that this data will lead to a tangible change in how crime is addressed in Memphis and Shelby County, offering valuable insights that can shape future measures, policies, and programs. He envisions a society where instead of simply reacting to crime, efforts are directed towards remedying the social ills that often precipitate it. He remains hopeful and committed to his endeavor, optimistic that this novel approach will lead to meaningful breakthroughs.

How to Contribute

If you wish to contribute your experiences to the V.O.I.C.E.S project, you can fill out the survey via the provided link. Participating in this survey not only aids efforts in understanding the roots of crime but also helps shape future interventions that can potentially transform lives.