Feed
We prepare and distribute meals to neighbors experiencing homelessness and hunger—serving with dignity, consistency, and care.
Join a meal outreach →Brothers Where Art Thou · 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Empowering men.
Strengthening generations.
BWAT Outreach reaches men of all ages with the Gospel of Jesus Christ—creating space to grow, learn, and develop healthy relationships with other caring men.
Gospel-centeredCommunity-ledMemphis-rooted
Stronger men build stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger nation.
Who we are
A brotherhood built on truth, growth, and caring relationships.
Brothers Where Art Thou, doing business as BWAT Outreach, is a Bible-believing, kingdom-building men’s ministry. We welcome men of all ages and backgrounds and empower them with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Through Scripture, mentoring, service, and authentic brotherhood, men can grow, learn, develop healthy relationships, and become stronger leaders in their homes and communities.
- Open to men of all ages and backgrounds
- Grounded in the Word of God
- Focused on growth, accountability, and healthy relationships
- Committed to practical service across Memphis
Our calling
Reach. Edify. Equip. Send.
We meet men where they are, walk with them in faith, and help them build a foundation strong enough to bless the next generation.
Meet our executive director
Carl Marshall
A Memphis native shaped by the city he is called to serve.
Mr. Marshall grew up in an urban Memphis neighborhood and was reared in a single-parent home without his father. Because of that experience, he understands the challenges and barriers men can face when they do not have the proper foundation.
A graduate of Capella University, Mr. Marshall brings extensive grassroots experience guiding males in inner-city communities toward a quality life rooted in enriching values and the Word of God.
He is a man of distinction with a mandate from God, passionate about fulfilling the BWAT vision and helping men discover purpose, responsibility, faith, and brotherhood.
Connect with BWAT Outreach →What we do
Faith in action. Brotherhood with purpose.
Every program meets an immediate need while helping men build a lasting foundation.
Mentor
We connect men with encouragement, accountability, life skills, and caring relationships that help them move forward.
Ask about mentoring →Minister
We share Scripture, prayer, and the hope of Jesus Christ in ways that are personal, practical, and rooted in love.
Invite BWAT Outreach →Mobilize
We give volunteers meaningful ways to serve, lead, donate, and build stronger relationships across Memphis.
Find your place →Why this work matters
The numbers are urgent. Every number is a neighbor.
Latest available public data, clearly labeled by year and geography. Follow each source link to verify the information.
24.0%
Memphis poverty rate
City of Memphis overall poverty rate using 2024 American Community Survey data.
University of Memphis · 2025 fact sheet ↗38.8%
Child poverty in Memphis
More than one in three Memphis children lived below the poverty line in 2024.
University of Memphis · 2025 fact sheet ↗139,960
Neighbors facing hunger
Feeding America estimates a 15.2% food insecurity rate in Shelby County for 2024.
Feeding America · Map the Meal Gap ↗784
People counted homeless
The Memphis/Shelby County 2024 Point-in-Time count included 158 unsheltered people.
HUD · 2024 PIT count ↗619
Jail population rate
Shelby County’s latest series point: 619 people in jail per 100,000 residents ages 15–64 (March 2024).
Vera Institute · Incarceration Trends ↗21% vs. 7%
Young-adult and youth arrests
In 2020, ages 18–24 accounted for 21% of violent-crime arrests; youth under 18 accounted for 7%. Arrests are not the same as crimes committed.
OJJDP/NIJ · August 2022 fact sheet ↗324% vs. 107%
Corrections vs. education spending growth
A federal historical comparison found state and local corrections spending rose 324% from 1979–80 to 2012–13, while elementary and secondary education spending rose 107%.
U.S. Department of Education · historical brief ↗Data note: Years differ because agencies publish on different schedules. Local incarceration is shown for Shelby County, the county containing Memphis. Arrest data measure law-enforcement actions, not unique people or proven offenses.
Get involved
Bring what you have. Build what our community needs.
You do not need a title to make a difference. Serve a meal, mentor a man, pray with a neighbor, organize supplies, or help us reach the next person.
Meal preparationStreet outreachMentoringPrayer & ministryDonation drivesEvent support
Ready to serve?
Tell us how you would like to help. We will follow up with current opportunities.
Volunteer with BWATGroups, churches, and community partners are welcome.
Give with purpose
Your generosity becomes meals, mentorship, ministry, and momentum.
Support the work of Brothers Where Art Thou. Gifts help us serve people experiencing hunger and homelessness, equip mentors, and expand Gospel-centered outreach.
Ways to give
By mailPO Box 281641
Memphis, TN 38168
Memphis, TN 38168
In-kindFood, hygiene items, clothing, and outreach supplies
Start a donationContact us for current needs and online giving options.
Contact us
Let’s build stronger men together.
Reach out about volunteering, mentoring, ministry, partnerships, donations, or support.