ABOVE: Iran Nazario getting a point across at the Anti-Violence Back to School Summit.
Project Success of Vermilion County is ready for another busy couple of days, following last Saturday’s (Aug 22nd) Anti -Violence Back to School Summit at the Palmer Arena. Violence Prevention and Family Outreach Coordinator Jamie Nightlinger says District 118 families are invited to Thursday (Aug 27th) evening’s Family Magic Show Night, in the Laura Lee Fellowship House at 212 East Williams, with activities beginning at 6:30 and the show starting at 7 PM; food being catered as well.
AUDIO: They are able to sign their kids up for Project Success while they’re at the event. We have a lot of programs that are starting in October. And we have Jonathan Mayes, our special guest. He’s a well known magician, so he’s going to be doing a magic show for the families.
Then, on Friday evening, also at the Laura Lee Fellowship House, a special Youth Night is planned.
AUDIO: From 9 to 11 PM, and it will be an “open mic night,” and also with games for the 16 to 22 year old crowd. Sixteen to 22 year olds are welcome to come. We always feed you; give away prizes. There’ll be a DJ; it’ll be a safe space to hang out on a Friday night.
As for last Saturday’s Anti-Violence Back to School Summit, Nightlinger says some very important stories were shared.
A team photo of participants in the Anti-Violence Back to School Summit.
AUDIO: We had Iran Nazario, and he is an author; former gang member turned peace advocate. He’s built several street outreach programs, which is something we’re working on with the gun violence committee. And we also had Mario Canon; an actor; a musician. And he had a really good message for the youth as well; just about how to persevere through hard times, and where you come from doesn’t determine where you’re going.
Once again, doors open at the Laura Lee Fellowship House for the Thursday Family Magic Show Night at 6:30 PM, and for Friday’s Youth Night at 9 PM.
