HARRISBURG, June 12, 2013 – State Sen. Anthony Williams will roll out the next part of his violence reduction initiative on June 22 when he, Wawa and PECO host a “Family Fun Day” during “Summer of Peace 2013.”
“Reducing violence is about engaging our community, so I am looking forward to a day of great basketball competition, good food, and special appearances by some very important public officials and local celebrities,” Williams (D-Philadelphia/Delaware) said.
U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey will join Williams and other community leaders for the 9 a.m. kick-off of the Peace March around the Myers Recreation Center. The basketball tournament is set to tip off at 9:30 a.m.
Mentoring workshops, swimming, “moonbounces,” games and a free lunch will also be featured during the day.
Williams started his violence reduction initiative earlier this year as a way to reduce violence in the Philadelphia area.
“Illegal guns are part of the problem of violence, but we can’t solely focus on getting guns off the streets. We need to foster better family and community dynamics,” Williams said.
“By bringing the community together and arming them with resources to help get out of a bad situation or find a job is a critical part of improving life in some of our more notorious neighborhoods,” he added.
With the basketball tournament, Williams said he is partnering with 14 local hoops coaches and recreation centers to give 12-16 year olds a summer-long outlet of productive exercise and friendship.
“We’re giving people the skills and support they need to focus on improving their lives. And, we hope they have fun and develop long-lasting friendships in the process,” the senator said.
Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy, a WUSL, Power 99 FM deejay and “Lady B” of Radio One’s Old School 100.3 will appeart throughout the day.
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