The Division of Community Services promotes ongoing economic security and independence for the people of Shelby County. We do this by promoting, coordinating and delivering services that address the underlying conditions for well being and justice.

Shelby County Division of Community Services strives to be a highly organized team and partner, dedicated to promoting a strong community where all people are able to reach their full potential.

About the Division of Community Services

The Division of Community Services is the place where human needs and government intersect. By leveraging Federal, State and local resources, the Division of community Services strives to meet the needs of people in crisis by providing emergency assistance with rent and utilities, assisting victims of crime with counseling, legal advocacy, and support, connecting elders with medical, social and legal resources, and providing hope to persons negotiating the criminal justice system after being charged with a crime.

The Community Services Division has seven departments and has staff and/or advisers on a number of area boards, agencies, and commissions. The departments include:

• Aging Commission of the Mid-South
• Community Services Agency
• Crime Victims/Rape Crisis Center
• Grants Management
• Pretrial Services
• Veterans Services
• Office of Community Engagement and Outreach

Youth Assessment Resource Center Concept

The Youth Assessment Resource Center (YARC) model provides critical prevention and early intervention assessment and case management services to youth and their families who are exhibiting at-risk behaviors at home, at school, and/or in the community.  It Incorporates numerous services and programs in an coordinated effort by different entities; increases accountability of providers that serve justice involved youth and at-risk youth, their families, and the community at large; and provides youth with a greater array of services, at a reduced cost to operate and with more positive outcomes.  To review the framework of the YARC model and information presented at recent community meetings, click on the links below.  Feedback in the planning and development of the concept to operations is being received through June 10, 2018, click here to complete the form.

Shelby County Youth Assessment Resouce Center Framework October 2017 Version

Youth Assessment Resource Center Concept Presentation- April 2018 Community Meeting

Youth Assessment and Resource Center Advisory Board

The Shelby County Youth Assessment and Resource Center Advisory Board will serve as the voice of the Shelby County community. The board will represent a cross section of professionals and community stakeholders committed to work with at risk and justice involved youth. The board will reflect diverse perspectives and experiences of the community. The Advisory Board will be identified through an application process and recommendations from community leadership.

The Advisory Board purpose is to provide perspective regarding the implantation and goals of the Assessment Center. The Advisory Board will be specifically tasked with assessing program capacity and community needs regarding factors that impact youth development. The Advisory Board will consist of 11 individuals with support from Shelby County Staff.

The Division of Community Services is currently looking for individuals to serve on the Advisory Board for the Youth Assessment and Resource Center. Please click here to learn about the Advisory Board and complete the application.

Applications will be accepted until February 2019. If you have any questions please contact Jamal.Whitlow@shelbycountytn.gov



"If you are a Shelby County Sub grantee and need grants management information or forms, access the Grants Management Resource Page.”