Community partners join Kankakee United to raise awareness and engage youth.
National Youth Violence Prevention Week is April 10, through April 14, with everyone playing a part in preventing violence. During the week, community partners will join Kankakee United and the Illinois Coalition for Community Services to present two days of fun and interactive experiences to raise awareness, promote healing, and share information regarding healthy ways to cope. Also, there will be special appearances and giveaways.
City of Kankakee Violence Prevention Director Johnnie L. Graham-Wicks said engaging youth is a primary first step in addressing violence. All events are free and open to the public, with an emphasis on youth attendance. The schedule for Youth Violence Prevention Week in Kankakee is as follows:
•Friday, April 14, from 5:30 – 8 p.m., Kankakee Public Library, fourth floor, 201 E. Merchant Street, Kankakee: Motivational, fun community connect with friends and family. A special appearance by Be Invinceable.
•Saturday, April 15, from 9 a.m. – noon, Pioneer Park, 698 N. Hobbie Avenue, Kankakee: “No questions asked,” Gun Buyback.
•Saturday, April 15, from noon – 2 p.m., Pioneer Park, 698 N. Hobbie Avenue, Kankakee: Community Kickball Match, Team Green vs. Team Read.
“I would like to extend my appreciation to our many community-based partners who continue to stand with our next youth, and to those who partner with Kankakee United. We are looking forward to a week of engaging fun and interactive activities to involve our youth and address this very serious topic, while providing them with the supports they need to make better choices that will dissuade them from violence,” stated Mayor Christopher W. Curtis.