901 BLOC SQUAD WELCOMES YOU
ACTIVITIES
Bringing Change
901 BLOC Squad is achieving more with our initiatives than ever before. We work on many exciting projects to help improve the lives of others, and are very proud of the progress we continue to make. Learn more about what we do, who we help, and how we work every day to promote positive change.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
With our organization’s mission always in mind, we strive to find new strategies for dealing with this challenge. Community Outreach is something that we take very seriously, and our team is working each and every day to make a positive impact. Contact us to learn more about our commitment to this cause.
MENTORING
At 901 BLOC Squad, we are dedicated to stepping up our efforts in mentoring. 901 BLOC Squad provides one-on-one mentoring by meeting with our clients weekly in the home, community, or at their schools. We are always striving to make a difference, and invite you to learn more and lend your support.
HOMELESS OUTREACH
With this initiative, our goal is to promote great opportunities for those in need. With access to the right resources, people can become empowered by their own abilities and gain the confidence to fulfill their potential. Learn more about our work by getting in touch with our team today.
ABOUT US
901 BLOC Squad is an Intervention program in the City of Memphis in which our mission is to equip, empower, and bridge the gap of at-risk youth and their families. 901 BLOC Squad responds to the condition of the neighborhoods, provides case management for at-risk girls and boys, and does one-to-one mentoring with our participants to understand their needs to assist with changing their behaviors so that they can pursue a productive life.
Here at 901 BLOC Squad, we are driven by a single goal; to do our part in making the world a better place for all. Our decision-making process is informed by comprehensive empirical studies and high-quality data evaluation. We strive to build productive relationships and make a positive impact on all of our participants.
MEET THE TEAM
The Faces of Our Organization
Since our founding in 2000, 901 BLOC Squad has developed and grown in a positive direction. We’re very proud of the diversity of our staff, and their abilities to contribute their own unique experience and skills to our success. Find out more about some of our team members below.
ANTHONY WALKER
Interventionist
Anthony Walker is a native Memphian from the South Memphis/Fowler Homes area. He developed a love for sports, particularly football, as a child and started playing in little league and continued to play throughout high school. Anthony attended Booker T. Washington High School and is a proud Warrior. His life took an unexpected, yet pivotal turn when he was convicted of a crime and sentenced to 10 years in federal prison at the age of 21. Although those years were hard years for Walker, it changed him for the better, perhaps saved his life and inspired him to do the work that he is currently doing with 901 Bloc Squad. While incarcerated, Anthony obtained his GED, developed discipline, and experienced a reality check about life and the choices he made as a young adult. He was released from prison in 2017 and began working for 901 Bloc Squad in 2018. Anthony loves connecting with the youth 901 Bloc Squad serves because he is able to be a mentor and hopefully inspire change through sharing his story.
AUBREY PHILLIPS
Interventionist
My name is Aubrey Phillips best known as “Big Tip”. I am a member of the 9.0.1. BLOC Squad Gun Violence Reduction Team. My motto is “Everyone deserves a chance for redemption”. I’m a Memphis native-born and raised. I graduated from Auburn University with my undergraduate degree in Public Administration, while also completing my Master's degree as well as my Educational Specialist degree both in Adult Education. My goal is to help as many at-risk youth and young adults as I can. I am also the head football coach at Booker T. Washington High School. I love helping out in my community when I have the opportunity to because I love my city.
BRIAN TILLMAN
Hospital Violence Intervention Lead
My name is Brian Tillman, and I'm 47 years old. I was raised in the Cleaborn Homes Project on the south side of Memphis, TN. As a kid, I was exposed to every negative attribute possible. At the vulnerable age of ten, I made the irrational decision to choose the game over education. I was seeking instant gratification. As a result of that one bad decision, my life spiraled out of control for the next three decades. My life became a war zone. At 17 years of age, I was shot twice in the same year, I caught a drug case, and was bound over to stand trial as an adult. At 18 years old, rather than being on my way to college, I was on my way to the penitentiary. The revolving prison door never stopped turning for me until after I had served 5 years in state prison and 12 years in federal prison. I got stabbed twice while in prison. After being released I made the best decision of my life which was to resort back to my spiritual upbringing and live for Christ. I joined a local congregation, found a job as an intervention specialist & worked diligently performing community outreach that led me to feed the less fortunate. As time progressed I started investing in real estate and eventually starting providing housing for low-income clients. Today as a result of following Jesus and the purpose he had for me my life has become a living testimony for at-risk youth that are experiencing numerous circumstances that I was able to overcome by God's grace. I'm now committed to reducing youth gun violence by empowering equipping & bridging the gaps of at-risk youth & their families. I find pleasure in assisting young men on their path to becoming positive and productive citizens.
CARMEN COLEMAN
Office Manager
My name is Carmen Coleman, and I'm the fur mom to a one-year-old Rotweiller, Roxy. I grew up in Memphis, TN, and graduated from Westwood High School. I received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Memphis and a Master's of Arts Degree from Webster University. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. My favorite bible verse is I can do all things through Christ that strengthen me which comes from Phillippians 4:13. I find this scripture also to hold true to the individuals we serve with 901 BLOC Squad. They have the skills and potential to be all that they want and acquire to achieve. A quote by Healthy thoughts states, True guidance is like a small torch in a dark forest. It does not show everything at once but gives enough light for the next step to be safe. We serve as the light by providing one-to-one mentoring to help redirect their focus so that they can achieve their goals and life dreams.
DELVIN LANE
Executive Director
Delvin Lane was born to a single teenaged mother Anna Lane in the Summer of 1977. He was the youngest of two boys. His brother Greg was born 2 years earlier to their then 14-year-old mother. Despite starting life behind most other kids, Delvin grew up learning how to cope with most problems life threw at him. He managed to graduate from Booker T. Washington high school, go to college at the University of Memphis, and achieve a master's degree from Webster University after being incarcerated for most of his senior year of high school. After becoming a gang leader in the Cleaborn Homes housing project where he grew up, he was converted into Christianity. He married his high school sweetheart and fathered 3 children. He started working for Streets Ministries where many young lives were redirected. Now, he leads the 901 BLOC Squad under his very own nonprofit called BLOC Ministries Inc. Assisting youth to overcome their struggles is his passion, and he credits any success to His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
DENEISHA LANE
Interventionist (Development)
I am Deneisha Lane. I was born to Loretta and Delvin Lane is December of 1995. As a kid, we traveled a lot during the summers on cruises and to exciting places like the St. Louis Arch and Disney World. Because our neighborhood in the 38126 was so rough and dangerous, leaving for the summers served as a great escape. I also spent a lot of time at Streets Ministries where we participated in lots of fun recreational activities, educational programs, summer camping trips, and college tours. I think our youth today need those same types of escapes to change their value systems. I am a 2014 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and a 2019 graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin with a degree in Finance. Growing up like I did gave me a respect for education and relationships. Joining the 901 BLOC Squad as a development professional will not only give me the opportunity to organize data but it will give me a chance to teach and mentor young girls on how to respect themselves and how to aim high to overcome every obstacle that comes their way.
EARMOND BOOTH
Interventionist (Development)
My name is Earmond L Booth and I am a 1972 graduate of Memphis Hamilton High School. I am a graduate of Shelby State Community College where I graduated with an Associate of Arts Degree in History. I am also a graduate of LeMoyne-Owen College where I graduated with an Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. I then went onto graduate from the University of Memphis where I became the recipient of an Masters Degree in Teaching. I also completed the Leadership program in school leadership at the University of Memphis. I worked in a corporate position for 17 years with Philip Morris U.S.A. where I served as a Territory Sales Manager. I also worked within in the Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools Systems for a total of 20 years. I worked as both a teacher and an Assistant Principal within those systems. I am a lifelong Memphian, and it is a honor to serve on the 901 BLOC Squad because my passion is definitely aligned with the mission.
LARRY JOHNSON
Interventionist
My name is Larry Johnson, born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. I went to Northside high school. After graduation, I studied at Midwestern State University and Itawamba Community College. Presently today, I currently work for the Outreach and Intervention Division at 901 BLOC Squad. I am a mentor and football coach at Middle College High School. I am also a business owner. My life has not always been great I started selling drugs at 12 years old and was in and out of juvenile as a teenager. I love doing the work that I do because I love giving back and serving my community. I want to help the youth make better decisions than I did coming up and be available to talk whenever they need someone to talk too.
LISA FILES-TYNES
Interventionist
Mrs. Lisa Files is an ordained minister who is a native of Newark, New Jersey. Lisa grew up in a time and place where rioting and crime took over the streets. Lisa is the mother of six who believes that every child should have an opportunity to be excellent. Lisa has been employed with several Memphis area apartment complexes all of which are in challenging parts of the city. Through her outreach programs, Lisa is determined to help change the lives of inner-city youths.
PORTER "PT" TYNES
Interventionist
Mr. Porter Tynes known as PT is a native of Memphis, TN who has an extremely big heart for children and young adults. Porter is an Army veteran who grew up in the projects of Getwell Gardens where his desire to serve underprivileged youths was born. Porter became a part of Memphis City Schools and served to the best of his ability at Fairley High and Melrose High School where he mentored many children and helped to keep them on the right track. Porter has been a part of AAU Basketball and can always be found surrounding himself around activities targeted to help youth excel. Porter's desire is to reach and change the lives of as many youths as he possibly can.
TERRELL BENTON
Interventionist
Hello my name is Terrell Benton I graduate from BTW in 1993. I went to Lane College. I work at Semmes Murphy Clinic for 14 years upon leaving Semmes Murphy Clinic. I start working for scs school and serve as Teacher Assistant and Shape Coordinator at Westwood High school which I also serve as Assistant Basketball Coach. I'm now working at Kingsbury High School where I have same position. I been working part time for 901 Bloc Squad serving the at risk youth.
TERRONDA PRITCHARD
Interventionist
My name is Terronda Pritchard. I am a native Memphian. I am a mother of 3. I attended Treadwell high school and I grew up in the North Memphis community. I really enjoy mentoring young people especially females who have experienced a troubled past. My message to them is simple, "help is on the way." Through serving on the 901 BLOC Squad, I can build stronger bonds with them so that their lives can exhibit a bright and productive future.
TREMAINE LOGAN
Interventionist
I'm Tremaine Logan. I'm a mentor working with the 901 Bloc Squad. I'm from Memphis, TN. I'm from the Frayser area. I went to Trezevant High School and I graduated in 1998. I was blessed with the opportunity to help impact the city's youth in a positive manner after a minor setback I faced. After my release from federal prison, I decided to get my life together and to help change the direction that many of our youth are headed in. I enjoy basketball and chess in my free time. My mission is to save and help out our youth and try my best to help these young guys to not make some of the same mistakes that I have made. I am here to assist and help save lives and give people especially young men/women a better outlook on life.
VICTOR LIGHTNING
Interventionist
My name is Victor Lightning, and I'm 45 years old. I am the father of three beautiful girls. I was born in Chicago, IL and moved to Memphis with my family when I was about 6 years old. I grew up in South Memphis and graduated from the Booker T. Washington High School with the class of ’95. From there, I did some college & worked different jobs before decided to enlist in U.S. Navy in ‘03 at the age of 27. I did one 4 year term. I then wanted to get out and help make a difference in my community. After getting out of the Navy in ‘07. I moved back to Memphis in ‘08. Shortly after returning to Memphis my childhood & still to this day best friend Delvin Lane was the A.D. of Streets Ministries. A ministry I as well as my brothers & sisters were a part of growing up. Delvin offered me a position at Streets. I worked as the Rec. Coordinator for 5 years. Then a position on the 901 BLOC Squad opened up for me in ‘13 where I am glad to still be a part of. I am also an Assistant Coach at my Alma Matter, Booker T. Washington for the last 6 years.
WAYNE BOOKER
Interventionist
Wayne Booker is the Executive Director of Team Safe in Memphis, Tennessee where his mission is to identify youth who are going to have a turbulent transition into adulthood and offer positive support and resources. He is also currently employed with 901 B.L.O.C. Squad as a Violence Intervention Specialist, aiming to curb violence within the communities, and also employed with Southwest Community College as a Transitional Specialist. Wayne was formerly employed with the Shelby County School Gang Awareness and Intervention as a Special Project Coordinator. He has worked diligently for over 35 years with the Federal Express of Memphis, Tennessee. Wayne Booker is an active member of Prince Hall Mason and the distinguished men of Omega Psi Phi. Fraternity Incorporated. He is a member of the elite Athletic Hall of Fame in Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Mississippi, and Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammonds, Louisiana. Wayne Booker is the author and publisher of Two Time Hall of Fame an autobiography of his life and challenges as a young black athlete. He has served on the Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni Board of Directors. He is also an Athletic mentor for high school and college students pursuing scholarships and college degrees. Wayne’s faith-based background led him to First Baptist Church Broad, where he serves as a Deacon and Arm bearer. Wayne is the husband of Gwendolyn Bufford -Booker, and the proud father of three daughters Mallori , Chelsea, Alicia, and one granddaughter Le’A.
GROWTH OF THE TEAM
New Faces of Our Organization
Since our founding in 2020, 901 BLOC Squad has grown in size. We’re very proud of the diversity of our staff, and their abilities to contribute their own unique experience and skills to our success. Find out more about some of our new team members below.
ALEX "TY" CRANE
Interventionist
I am Alex Tyrone Crane but you can call me Ty. I grew up in the Westwood area and graduated from Westwood High School with honors. I was an outsider in my home, at school and in my community. I was a child who was subjected to physical abuse and felt unloved. I found the love that I thought I was looking for when I joined the Gangster Disciples in 1992. I rose in the ranks of the Gangster Disciples and became a Governor of the Gangster Disciples and a major drug dealer. I helped organize the very first gang structure in Memphis, TN. Eventually I was arrested and did four and a half years in Federal prison. During my incarceration I joined a Ministers Study Group, learned carpentry and real estate. Upon my release from prison I attended University of Phoenix for Business Management, then Liberty University for Theology and took Tax Preparation classes at the University of Memphis. I have worked with Pastor Melvin Jones with the Gang Hotline, the late Pastor Dwight Montgomery with Operation Take Back. I was the first former gang leader to speak out against gang violence and to hold gang peace summits. My goal is to lead those that are lost and headed to destruction to righteousness and God's Glory. " I am a SHEEP in wolf's clothing."
ALONZO MCCOY
Interventionist
Alonzo McCoy is an accomplished barber, loving father of five, mentor, consultant, and entrepreneur. Living in the Memphis community has been a lifelong commitment of mines. My daily passion consists of trying to better lives and give children opportunities to live peaceful lives. I am now a member of the 901 BLOC Squad. I proud to be teaming up with other like minded men and women.
BRANDYN MALONE
Interventionist
My name is Brandyn Malone also known as Big B. I grew up in North Memphis/Dixie Homes area. I got my educational knowledge from the southside of Memphis at Booker T Washington high school and were i ran into Mr. Delvin Lane. Who saw something in me and took me under his wing through coaching and mentorship throughout city of Memphis. Im hoping bring change and peace into the life of our youth in the city such as he did for me.
DEANDRE ROSSER
Interventionist
Hello, my name is DeAndre Rosser. I graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 2010. I was born and raised in the South Memphis community and later moved to Orange Mound. Playing football and basketball in school kept me grounded and away from gangs and violence. I am now working part time for 901 Bloc Squad serving the at-risk youth and their families by sharing my experiences with them and providing opportunities for educational, economical, and violent free ways to live lives free of the normal stresses.
DELVIN D. LANE
Hospital Violence Intervention Specialist
Delvin (Dee) Lane is a south Memphis native born to Shikila Talley and Delvin Lane. He is an alumnus and former football player for both Whitehaven High School and Lane College. Serving youth has been a life-long passion and this work began at Streets Ministries as a recreation staff member where he touched hundreds of inner-city youth daily. Delvin has coached high school and middle school football around the city of Memphis where he also took the opportunity to mentor even more inner-city young men. Seeing violence reach historical levels has ignited a spark in him and now he has been given the opportunity to work with the newly formed hospital violence intervention team who is working under the GVIP in collaboration with the Regional One Trama Center of Memphis.
JEREMY WILLIAMS
Interventionist
My name is Jeremy Williams. I'm a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School c/o 2008. A native to Memphis; I grew up in South Memphis. The Cleaborn Home Housing Projects to be exact. Growing up it was so easy to get caught up in wrong-doing. I didn't live a perfect life but I chose to not be a statistic. I sought sports such as baseball, basketball, and football to keep me occupied. There's so much going on in our city/community so for today's youth it's easy to get into trouble. I'm now part of a positive organization 901 BLOC SQUAD that aides in keeping our youth on the right path. By sharing our own personal experiences and knowledge we aim to keep our community focused on what matters and promote a violent free safe outlet.
MARIUS HAMPTON
Interventionist
My name is Marius Hampton a.k.a. Dante. I lived in North Memphis up until the 3rd grade then my family moved to the Indian Hills subdivision in the Westwood area. I attended Chickasaw Jr. High, Westwood High School and I graduated from Mitchell High in 1993. When I was in the 9th grade all the gangs where trying to recruit me and I ended up joining the Gangster Disciples. As my reputation grew I was chosen to be the Chief of Security of 1 of 4 decks(section of memphis) the Southwest Deck. I also was picked to be the personal security for one of the Governors of the Gangster Disciples. I was incarcerated on several occasions for Marijuana, Cocaine and Guns. After being entangled with the Criminal Justice Center at 201 Poplar for over 15 years I decided that change was necessary. In 2005 I stop selling drugs, retired from the gang, enrolled at Remington College and graduated with my Associates Degree in Criminal Justice in 2007. I am now a proud member of the 901 BLOC Squad where our mission is to simply save lives one youth at a time.
LARRY HURD
Interventionist
I am Larry Hurd, an educator for 9 years with SCS. I am a special needs teacher at Raleigh Egypt High School. I have been mentoring youth since 2006 through varies programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, and Kappa Days of Care. I am now an interventionist with the 901 BLOC Squad where we target youth who are affected by gun violence. Relationship building is our number one way to build and win the right to be heard. I am a proud member of The Omicron Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Faternity, Inc.
MARIA HINTON
Interventionist
My name is Maria Hinton. I’m 48 years old I have 2 daughters one is 32 and the other is 30. I had them at a young age. I’m the oldest of three, and my family is VERY close. Growing up life was fair, and my family had what we needed but we didn’t have God. After catching a 2nd degree murder charge 23 years ago at the age of 21, I went to the penitentiary with 22 years at 100%. While being incarcerated, I was determine to walk for God even if it killed me. At the age of 29, I gave my life to God, but not just me my entire family. After doing 18 years 8 months and 8 days I came home (that 8 mean New Beginning In God). I been home 6 year now. I know and feel in my heart that God has called me to labor for him and I’m willing. I want to show the youth out here that there is a better way than these streets. I’m a witness and I can only tell them about experience. The things that I have dealt with in my life and how since giving my life to God, things are lining up positively. My commitment to God has been the best thing that I have ever done and I thank God for another chance at LIFE.
MICHELLE PETERSON
Hospital Violence Intervention Specialist
My name is Michelle Peterson, native of West Memphis Arkansas. I received my Bachelor of Science in Human Services; a Master of Science in Psychology from University of Phoenix and I am currently working on my Doctorate in Management and Leadership from the University of Phoenix. With honor I currently wear the hat of being a mother of three adult beautiful daughters, a licensed ordained minister of 10 years and the wife of a wonderful man of God. Throughout my years of employment, I held the role of supervisor for 19 years, worked as a counselor for Benjamin L. Hook Job Corp, and most recently a Family Intervention Specialist for Youth Villages. Throughout the years I have found that the love of helping youth and families is my passion and I thrive off knowing that I can help make a difference in the lives of others. In my spare time I enjoy crafting, watching basketball, football, and spending time with family.
STEPHEN ALLMOND
Interventionist
Grew up in South Memphis a graduated from BTW High School. Possess a passion & zeal to help youth transition from street related activities & develop the necessary skills & knowledge to succeed in life. A father of 6 children that’s worked with at-risk young people since his teenage years.
MAYA JOHNSON
Intervention Specialist
My name is Maya Johnson, and I was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. I graduated from Central High School and The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I live by many quotes but one of my favorites is “My richness is in life, forever and every time I choose me.” I live my life to please me and explore who I am regardless of materialistic things and the negativity surrounding me. I am working on my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My interests are mindfulness, counseling, kickboxing, dancing, cooking, music, children, and helping others. I love to focus on the mind, body, and soul because I must take care of myself in order to evolve, reach my goals, and inspire others. Memphis is home and my love for home led me to 901 B.L.O.C. Squad, where I can embrace, uplift, and empower our people alongside others from the community who are striving to achieve the same goal.
"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does"
William James
CONTACT 901 BLOC SQUAD
Get in touch with 901 BLOC Squad to learn more about our work and how you can get involved.
3385 Austin Peay HWY, Suite 202
Memphis, Shelby County 38128
USA
Mailing Address: PO Box 664, Memphis, TN 38101
901-218-0278