We had the good fortune of connecting with Arieale Munson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arieale, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My name is Arieale Munson. I am the Executive Director of Operation Taking Back 901.Operation Taking Back 901 is a 501c3 non-profit organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support. Our mission is to implement economic and educational programs for underserved youth and their families in Shelby County.

I started this business to educate young adolescents about the power of manifesting. I am an author of 3 self published books, “ When Pleasing Has No Purpose”, “I Am The Change” and “How To Start a Nonprofit.” All books assist with promoting overcoming real life issues such as abuse, neglect, entrepreneurship & beating the odds. I became certified as a Life Coach to provide professional & business development. We provide resources to encourage & uplift our future scholars. #OTB901 is a pillar of the community that prides on providing resources and helping with real life issues. As the founder, I know how it feels to grow up in a low income neighborhood. But you don’t see a way out. So I have partnered up with our local school system to go in monthly, to teach about self esteem building, time management, Adverse Childhood Experiences and life-skills. My business model is unique because I serve whole heartedly due to being in those same shoes. Memphis is the city that I love!

What should our readers know about your business?
Our core values are “Our Impact to build Purpose” to strive for greatness while rebuilding positivity in our community. This is done by holding each other accountable, showing compassion while working towards growth.

#OTB901 was founded based off personal experiences of growing up in a low-income neighborhood. Resources were very limited, which could almost have led me down the wrong direction. Instead of burying myself in self-sympathy, I started this organization & also wrote a book titled “When Pleasing Has No Purpose.” This mission is very important to me because if I can just save a few, my mission does not go in vain.

At Operation Taking Back 901, well-being is at the forefront of what we’re working together towards. The organization believes in building lifelong relationships and strategizing solutions for growth. With long-lasting, distinctive, and substantial solutions, we sustain to improve network and communication performance. We believe in performing the best, delivering maximum leverage, and building a brighter future together. We have ensured that we have put up the suitable structures to support the growth we have in mind setting up the business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite spots in the city to eat is ” The Capital Grille”, “Sugar Shack” and ” Redlands.” I go to each of those spots for some good food and catch up with friends.

As far as hanging out in my city, I would say “In Love Memphis.” We always have an amazing time listening to hot music and vibing to the latest R &B.

As far as bars, I love to go to ” The Peabody and Hyatt Rooftop bars. I also love the bar at the Westin Hotel.

Attractions in Memphis: National Civil Right Museum, Sun Studio, Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and Stax Museum

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shout out a few organizations that have been a blessing along my journey. They have poured into me and our mission.

Changing the Mindset Inc- Dr. Shmeka Gibson
I Am She- Vanessa Caswell-Rodgers
MINC-Kendall Munson
LIFEline to Success- Vinessa Brown
TRAP-Portia Moore
Hygiene Chic- Dedrie Pryor
Heal The Hood- LaDell Beamon

Website: takingback901.org

Instagram: operationtakingback901

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arieale-munson-0a6477123

Facebook: Operation Taking Back 901

Image Credits
Photo credits Rafael Burchett ( I emailed you photos)

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