Discussion Topics included:

1. Gun Buyback Programs

  • Panelists discussed the ineffectiveness of current gun buyback initiatives

  • Suggested improvements like multi-tiered pricing and adding educational components

  • Highlighted trust issues between community and law enforcement

    2. Youth Support and Intervention

  • Emphasized creating safe spaces and recreational activities for at-risk youth

  • Discussed mental health challenges and need for comprehensive support

  • Stressed importance of mentorship and positive role models

    3. Funding Challenges

  • Grassroots organizations struggle to secure consistent funding

  • Lack of technical support and grant-writing resources

  • Need for more proactive, sustainable funding models

    4. Community Collaboration

  • Importance of multi-agency cooperation

  • Creating networks of support for families and youth

  • Breaking cycles of violence through education and opportunity

    5. Parental and Community Involvement

  • Encouraging parents to be more engaged with children

  • Creating support systems for young parents

  • Developing trust and communication between community leaders and youth

Coming out of the powerful June 26th Gun Violence Awareness Panel, one message rang loud and clear: our community wants more for our youth. Panelists spoke passionately about the need for safe spaces, mentorship, mental health support, and opportunities that give young people alternatives to the streets. Parents and community leaders echoed those concerns, calling for concrete solutions and stronger connections to the programs that already exist.

On June 26, 2025, in recognition of Gun Violence Awareness Day, Ward F Councilman Frank “Educational” Gilmore hosted a panel discussion, bringing together community leaders and organizations working to address youth violence.

It was a very passionate, solution-oriented discussion highlighting the complex challenges of gun violence while maintaining hope and commitment to community transformation.

In direct response, Councilman Frank Gilmore hosted the July 23rd Ward F Town Hall — a meeting designed to turn those conversations into action. This gathering spotlighted local organizations offering youth programs and positive outlets throughout the summer. From recreation and gaming, to mentorship, arts, and back-to-school support, the event gave families practical options to keep their children engaged, safe, and inspired.

Learn More About Our Quarterly Town Halls

Local leaders and organizations shared how they’re working together to support youth development, tackle community challenges, and build a brighter future for our young people.

Don’t Just Follow Our Journey...

Help Us Reach Our Destination!

Sign Up to be a Ward F volunteerToday!

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Ward F News You Can Use

10/25/23 Captain's Meetings & BOE Forum
10/20/23 Inviting Ward F Seniors to Rank The Sandwiches
10/6/23 Town Hall Recap & City Council Meeting Preview
10/4/23 MCCDC: #JusticeForDrew
9/22/23 Marathon Traffic
9/18/23 Parking Woes: Is Zoned Parking the Answer?
9/5/23 Morris Canal CDC Monthly Community Meeting
8/4/23 Party & Government Accountability

Click here to access ALL of our previous newsletters.

Catch up on NEWS & EVENTS you may have MISSED by viewing our PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED “The People’s Ward F” newsletters here.

07/06/23
06/14/23
06/07/23
05/31/23
05/11/23
05/01/23
04/12/23
03/22/23
03/09/23
02/18/23
01/16/23
01/04/23

12/15/22
12/6/22
11/29/22
11/5/22
10/28/22
10/21/22
10/20/21
10/06/22
10/04/22
09/28/22
09/22/22
09/20/22
09/16/22
08/29/22
08/26/22
08/17/22
08/18/22

Meet Our “Neighbors to Know”