Bee-Lievers Can Stop the Violence
Apr 24th, 2010
What can a bunch of youth who really believe in themselves accomplish? Anything they set their minds to. This was proven on Friday night, April 24th, the culmination of a two day campaign against violence in our community.
Bee-Lievers BeeYond the Stars, a youth group and block club, organized the two day event which took place at Hope Christian School and Grace Fellowship Christian Church, both on Port Washington Avenue. The Rolling “Stop the Violence” Revival and Freedom from Violence were the names the youth group chose.
Other youth were involved in planning and practicing for the entertainment, which included Strong Heart, MYSO String Quartet, HOPE Christian High School Choir, Cass Street Steppers, Teen Challenge Choir, and the 4th & Keefe BeeLievers. Other guest presentations included “True Love Doesn’t Hold you Back: Teen dating violence awareness.” Guest speaker Clem Richardson from Project Return and Pastor C. Tolbert from Jabez COGIC provided inspiring words for all in attendance.
A number of collaborators made the events possible. They included Harambee Great Neighborhoods Initiative, Riverworks, Columbia St. Mary’s, Word of Hope Ministries, Teen Challenge International, Task Force Against Violence, Footprint Day Care, All Peoples Church, Wells Fargo, and Safe & Sound.
Safe & Sound was among the many organizers of the event, assisting in promoting it with other youth groups and being on hand to help out and provide resources. However, the two days of music, performances, speeches, and sermons were really made possible through Bee-Lievers BeeYond the Stars, led by Pat Ott and Tehanna Robinson, and some of the most committed youth groups in Milwaukee. These young people have been through a lot, growing up in a community all too often ravaged by violence. They want to see a change and are committed to follow-through with their goals.
The two day event culminated with singing and dance performances as well as words of faith and wisdom. Refreshments provided an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other and congratulate the youth on their spirited performances. The participants left inspired and ready to take on the challenge of bringing the positive message to others in need.
