MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A non-profit rock climbing gym changing the lives of young people in the community is asking for help keeping its doors open for years to come.
Memphis Rox has started a $50,000 fundraising campaign to recover from flood damage, upgrade its security, and continue to provide essential programs in the heart of Soulsville.
Four men broke into the South Memphis gym in January and left with several cash registers.
Memphis Rox manager Michelle Miller said they’ve been dealing with many unexpected challenges lately but remain committed to their mission.
“It’s in a neighborhood where we do have some challenges, like crime, but because we can offer activities inside these doors for our young people, we have a wonderful relationship with the school across the street,” said Miller. “We need more spaces like that in Memphis.”
The Memphis Rox campus was the creation of Hollywood director Tom Shadyac and opened across from the Stax Museum six years ago. The gym allows customers to pay what they can to climb or volunteer.
“We have other things for the community beyond just rock climbing. We have a community closet here that opens once a week,” said Miller. “We also do sack lunches every day for folks from the community.”
Memphis Rox said it will continue to provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals from all walks of life to come together, climb, and build meaningful connections.
The fundraiser has already raised over $35,000. If you would like to support Memphis Rox, click right here.
