Leadership Vicksburg, VPD partner to support at risk youth

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — A Leadership Vicksburg 2025–2026 team, 2 Chix & 7 Fellas, presented their community project in partnership with the Vicksburg Police Department to support and expand the department’s newly launched U-Turn Program, which is designed to empower local youth through mentorship, resources, and support systems that help them thrive. 

As part of the nine-month Leadership Vicksburg program, participants are challenged to identify a community need and develop a sustainable project that creates a lasting impact. After researching local challenges and opportunities, the 2 Chix & 7 Fellas team chose to focus on youth development, recognizing the importance of early intervention, mentorship, and positive community engagement.

Working alongside the Vicksburg Police Department, the team has helped support curriculum development and program implementation for youth ages 12-17. The program is designed to provide participants with structured mentorship, leadership development, academic support, social-emotional learning, mental health resources, community engagement opportunities, and service-learning experiences.

Deputy Chief Tommy Curtis emphasized the significance of the initiative and the partnership.

“It’s never too late to change directions. One U-turn can change a lifetime, and strong futures start with one decision to turn things around,” said Curtis. “We’re excited to be partnering with Leadership Vicksburg to invest in the future of our youth. Through this collaboration, we are creating opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and realize their full potential.”

The U-Turn Program officially launched in January with a mission to create a safe and supportive environment where young people can spread their wings, overcome challenges, and succeed. The program operates in eight-week cohorts, with participants meeting twice monthly. Beyond the formal sessions, youth will continue receiving support through an ongoing mentorship component.

The project also includes collaboration with local organizations such as the Vicksburg-Warren Youth Development Center, Gateway Behavioral Health and other community professionals committed to addressing the needs of young people through a coordinated and holistic approach.

Pablo Diaz, President and CEO of the Vicksburg Warren Partnership, highlighted how the project exemplifies the mission of Leadership Vicksburg.

“One of the most valuable aspects of Leadership Vicksburg is that participants don’t just learn about our community—they actively work to improve it,” said Diaz. “The 2 Chix & 7 Fellas team identified an opportunity to support youth development and partnered with the Vicksburg Police Department to create a meaningful program that can have a lasting impact on young lives. This project demonstrates the power of collaboration, leadership, and community engagement, which are at the heart of the Leadership Vicksburg Program.”

Leadership Vicksburg is a nine-month, project-based leadership development program offered through the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce. Throughout the program, participants explore key community issues, engage with local leaders, and develop the skills needed to become effective agents of change. The community project component serves as the capstone experience, allowing participants to apply what they have learned while creating tangible solutions that benefit Vicksburg and Warren County.

The U-Turn Program reflects the shared commitment of the Vicksburg Police Department, Leadership Vicksburg, and community partners to invest in the next generation of leaders and provide young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to succeed.

For more information on how to support the U-Turn Program, contact Deputy Chief Tommy Curtis, Sergeant Williams, or Investigator Godbolt with the Vicksburg Police Department.

For more information about Leadership Vicksburg, visit https://vicksburgusa.com/chamber-of-commerce/programs/leadership-vicksburg/.