Written By JR Robinson

Jevonte Porter’s campaign for Shelby County Commissioner District 12 is more than a bid for elected office—it is the culmination of years spent serving and empowering Memphis communities with unmatched dedication and vision. Born and raised in Orange Mound, Porter’s personal journey from valedictorian at Melrose High School to impactful community leader exemplifies the values and tenacity he now aims to channel into transformative public policy.

Early Roots of Leadership

Growing up in Memphis shaped Porter’s perspective on adversity and opportunity. With the support and encouragement of his mother, he learned resilience early, refusing to let hardship define him. At Melrose High School, Porter not only excelled academically—graduating as valedictorian—but also began to serve his peers, taking on early mentorship roles and speaking publicly about the challenges facing Memphis youth.

Education and Mentorship

Porter’s belief that “every child deserves a world-class education” is backed by his investment in educational initiatives throughout Memphis. He founded the Melrose Mentoring Program, which provides guidance, resources, and leadership opportunities to students. The program’s values—integrity, excellence, innovation, and commitment—reflect Porter’s approach to service: nurturing future leaders by fostering hope and resilience.

His advocacy stretches to higher education as well. Porter served both as a recruiter and program coordinator for minority enhancement at the University of Tennessee, ensuring access and support for underserved students. His tenure as president and vice president of the National Black Law Students Association at UT-Knoxville further solidified his influence on young leaders and raised awareness for equity issues in academia.

Community Health and Support

Porter’s record of service expands into healthcare, with his work as a Development Officer at Regional One Health. In this capacity, he helped fund and promote programs that ensure families in Memphis have access to critical health services. His focus on expanding community clinics and delivering mental health support is echoed in his campaign priorities; Porter believes no resident should ever be forced to choose between their health and financial stability.

Neighborhood Leadership and Violence Prevention

Recognizing the urgent need for safer streets in Memphis, Porter stepped into public service roles with the City of Memphis Division of Housing and Community Development. As Neighborhood Redevelopment Coordinator and Community Development Analyst, he helped implement revitalization and violence prevention strategies directly impacting neighborhoods across the city. These roles made Porter a hands-on advocate for community policing, youth programs, and neighborhood transformation—work that he cites as crucial preparation for leading Shelby County.

Porter’s leadership continued to grow at Memphis Allies, where he was promoted to Director of Community Relations. In this role, he built coalitions across Memphis, working to reduce gun violence and break generational cycles of trauma. “This is a critical time for the City of Memphis,” Porter says, “and there is nowhere I would rather be than on the Memphis Allies leadership team, building partnerships as we all strive to reduce gun violence and its generational impact”. Under his guidance, Memphis Allies not only expanded direct services but built teams of committed players representing the organization all across the city.

Champion of Economic Empowerment

Porter’s advocacy extends to creating economic opportunity for Shelby County residents. He’s a determined supporter of small businesses and Black-owned enterprises, championing living-wage jobs and workforce equity. His work in public development and as Corporate Relations Manager for Youth Villages has directly supported pathways to economic stability for families and youth in Memphis.

Public Recognition and Influence

Porter’s impactful journey is recognized beyond program results. He has received numerous distinctions, including Memphis Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40,” the “Top 40 Urban Elite” award, and graduation from Leadership Memphis—a testament to both his personal and professional achievements. He is also featured in the “S.O. What! Success Stories” series, demonstrating his role as an inspiration for resilience and positive change in the face of adversity.

Faith, Family, and Community Spirit

A leader’s influence is rooted not just in public achievements but also in personal integrity and values. Porter is an active leader in his church, pouring time and resources into spiritual mentorship and support for local families. He credits his wife Shelby and their children Madison and Deuce as central inspirations, continually grounding his work in faith and the importance of family.

Vision for Shelby County

Porter’s campaign is distinguished by four core pillars: Education & Families, Healthcare Access, Safe Neighborhoods, and Economic Power. He’s not running to make empty promises, but to make measurable progress using his experience and relationships with local institutions. From reforming schools to expanding health clinics, from advocating violence prevention to supporting Black-owned businesses, Porter’s platform is shaped by hands-on service and sustained results.

He sums up his charge: “Porter for the People means standing up for your family, your health, your safety, and your future. District 12 deserves bold leadership that listens, responds, and delivers”.

It's a Wrap

Jevonte Porter’s candidacy is built on a foundation of resilience, leadership, and service to Memphis. His life's work has already influenced thousands of young people and families; elected to the Shelby County Commission, Porter promises to deliver the same tireless dedication, innovative solutions, and proven teamwork to every resident of District 12. His journey from Orange Mound to the front lines of community leadership shows that real change is possible when leaders root their policies in service, heart, and vision.