Violence

lenora27 · #1 10-26-2000, 03:03 PM

First let me say hello to everyone! I live in New Orleans La. I am writing this post to try and get some suggestions and input on the recent violence in my city. There was a shooting at a middle school that left two children wounded. The seen was chaotic. Everyone was upset and scared. I sat and watched the news in horror. What are these kids thinking about?
Although this was horrible, it was confirmation to let me know that I am on the right track. I am in the process of setting up a non-profit orginization that will give the kids in this city something positive to do. I hope to be able to reach kids in low income areas as well as high income. Violence is affecting everyone. Although I cannot post all of the specifics at this time, I would love to get some feedback on what you (members of DST) think. Ideas are welcomed. The website for the orginization will be up and running in 3 weeks.

Thanks in advance!

DirectorDST99 · #2 10-27-2000, 11:24 AM

With all due respect, Lenora27, there are, as you know, others who read and participate in this forum. So, in all fairness, why not just address your question to all participants instead of the "members of DST". I would be interested in reading comments from everyone.

Thanks.

Re: your organization....are there not any positive organizations and activities for the kids in New Orleans?

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Director #2
LMAC
Spr 99

lenora27 · #3 10-27-2000, 05:10 PM

Thank you for pointing that out to me Director. I would love to hear what EVERYONE has to say. And to answer your other question, there are few if any orginaztions that cater to the youth in this city. The youth developement centers that were open before are now closed. If you go in and around the city all you see are kids just "hanging". I don't know if the stats have been posted nation-wide, but Orleans parish ranked last in education out of the state of Louisiana with the exception of a few schools. We recently gave a football camp and the response was overwhelming. Parents call me constantly saying that we need more activities for the youth. People are leaving the city and moving elsewhere but that won't solve the problem. Someone has to do something so I figured, why not me?

OK. I'm off my soap box.

Suggestions and ideas are greatly appreciated.

Thanks

DirectorDST99 · #4 10-28-2000, 12:13 AM

Wow, I didn't know New Orleans had gotten to be so bad... and last in education...that's serious.

What age group are you talking about elem., middle, or high school or all (as far as those who are "hanging out")?

Sounds like New Orleans needs a clean up crew...i.e. a bunch of women who care...I know that sounds sexist but it seems that women and women organizations are saving alot of people.

[This message has been edited by DirectorDST99 (edited October 28, 2000).]

[This message has been edited by DirectorDST99 (edited October 29, 2000).]

lenora27 · #5 10-28-2000, 01:06 AM

Most of the kids have on school uniforms so my guess is that they are between 12 and 17 years old. The camp that we recently gave was for kids from the ages of 8-12. I think this is a crucial time as far as trying to reach kids. I hope we can make a difference.