Stop the Violence in Alexandria CEO Frederick Burgess has been actively creating safe spaces for young people as part of his mission to combat crime and gun violence. Now he is asking for help to keep the program alive.
“Man, when I first started all this money was coming out of me and my wife’s pocket, trying to help these kids. You know, feed them and make sure they have school supplies and school clothes.”
Burgess started getting sponsors to help with the adding cost and a major one was Hixon Ford Dealership where Burgess works, and 3-4 kids have received jobs at the dealership.
Currently, the after-school sports program is not active. The Charles Hayward Activity Center where basketball was hosted is requesting more funds for Burgess to continue to host the program at their facility.
“There should not be an issue about money. It should be an issue about…come in and run your program and keep these kids off the street.”
By focusing on these safe spaces, Burgess aims to build resilience and empowerment among the youth, helping them to navigate their challenges and avoid the pitfalls of violence and crime.
“When you have an outlet for kids to go in you keep them out of trouble, but when you don’t have an outlet for them they will get in trouble.”
Stop the Violence in Alexandria host around 400 students a month in the after-school program and has helped over a thousand youths in the city with life skills and education.
To donate visit StopTheViolence.us
Comments