Team 1 — bettermenbetterfamillies

Our Team

Curtis Hines

Founder & President:

Meet Curtis J Hines, an author born and raised in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, right in the 38126 zip code. As a native of this vibrant but underserved community, Curtis intimately understands the challenges faced by its residents - the struggles of poverty, the presence of crime, and the resilience of single-parent households.

Curtis is not just a proud Memphian; he’s a product of its very streets. A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, he cherishes the values instilled in him by the community that raised him.

Now, as a devoted family man, Curtis is married to his high school sweetheart, Lashanda, and together they have five amazing children, Jalen, James, Jackson, Jamison and Brooklyn. His family is not only his pride but also his biggest inspiration. Curtis’s writing is deeply rooted in the lessons he’s learned from his experiences as a husband and father.

But Curtis’s connection to Memphis runs even deeper. He has a passion for creating, and he channels this energy into his writing. Curtis is the author of several books, including “Which Way to Go,” “Which Way to Go Now,” and “This is For Men.” His books focus on self-improvement, personal growth, and developing stronger relationships with loved ones. Curtis believes that everyone has the potential to be their best selves, and his writing aims to inspire readers to live up to their full potential.

It’s this profound connection to Memphis, his own experiences growing up in the 38126 area, and his dedication to being a positive force for change that led Curtis to establish Better Men Better Families. For him, this organization is not just a mission; it’s a labor of love. It’s an opportunity for Curtis to give back to the community he still holds dear and a chance to empower individuals and families with the knowledge and support they need to thrive.

Frederick Holmes

Co-Founder & Vice President:

Frederick Holmes is a devoted lifelong Memphian who has dedicated more than two decades to the field of education. With a fervent desire to enhance the learning experience, he has wholeheartedly embraced the integration of technology into classrooms, recognizing its potential to revolutionize how students engage with knowledge. Throughout his career, Frederick has been a driving force behind transformative discussions about financial management within educational institutions, advocating for the significance of financial literacy as a crucial life skill.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Frederick Holmes is also a licensed insurance agent, furthering his commitment to financial well-being by helping individuals and families make informed decisions about their insurance needs. His multifaceted career reflects a profound commitment to both education and financial empowerment, establishing him as a valuable asset to both the Memphis community and the broader educational and financial domains. Frederick’s passion for nurturing learning and financial resilience continues to shape his professional journey and positively influence the lives of those he encounters.

Furthermore, Frederick is excited to be a part of “Better Men Better Families” because of the chance to enhance and impact the neighborhood he grew up in, as well as throughout the city of Memphis. He firmly believes that Memphis needs more men stepping up into spaces that are currently void of male presence and leadership. He states, “I am excited to be a part of the movement to ensure that more men are stepping up and speaking life into the community while building relationships with people and partnerships with other community groups, residents, the city, and the county.”

On a personal note, Frederick is a loving husband to Detra and a proud father to Emmanuel. His commitment to education, financial well-being, and community improvement is not only evident in his professional life but also in his role as a husband and father. Frederick’s dedication extends to his family, making him a true advocate for positive change both at home and in the wider community.

Board of Directors