Improved Services
The Mission is embarking on Phase 2 of our capital campaign for our new Opportunity Center. The new Center addresses the old facility’s shortcomings and will better minister to the needs of our community’s homeless, including:
- Increased bed capacity to house 350+ individuals
- Dedicated dining facilities
- Classroom space
- Dedicated worship center with seating for up to 350+ guests
- Private showers and dressing rooms
- Open circulation and activity area
- Enhanced laundry services
- Capacity for third-party supportive services, including medical, case management, GED, literacy education and legal assistance
- Better accessibility for disabled guests
Improved Neighborhood
As part of a strategic plan, the Mission has purchased key properties in the area around its current facility in order to be a good neighbor to the people who live and work in the Poplar corridor. The Mission’s desire is to be a catalyst for improvement in the area.
The new Opportunity Center facility features a landscaped outdoor courtyard approximately 90 by 120 feet that will be accessible to its homeless guests. Loitering outside the facility will be discouraged by allowing guests to enjoy the new courtyard during
nice weather.
The Center is located within the Medical District overlay and will align with the overlay’s design requirements. The Opportunity Center has been designed to be attractive and will help anchor the neighborhood around Poplar Avenue and Danny Thomas Boulevard.
Improved Community Engagement
Founded in 1945, Memphis Union Mission has become the city’s primary service provider to the homeless. Volunteer opportunities are a key part of the Mission’s excellent reputation in the community.
The new Center’s larger size and design features will also allow additional volunteer opportunities, including sorting clothing donations, cooking food for guests, teaching life skills, and providing other supportive services and expertise.
Because hundreds of volunteers come through the Mission’s doors each month to serve the homeless, a volunteer reception area has been built into the dining and food service area.
