News Summary
Ketchmore Kids hosted a Family Fun Day in Newport News, marking 20 years of service and advocating for gun violence prevention. The event attracted hundreds of attendees and featured activities aimed at fostering community support and engaging families in important discussions. Ketchmore Kids continues to deliver hope and healing while addressing the pressing issue of gun violence through community involvement and educational initiatives.
Newport News – Ketchmore Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding youth and families, hosted a successful Family Fun Day on Sunday, celebrating 20 years of service and advocating for gun violence prevention. The event, held at King Lincoln Park, attracted an estimated 400 to 500 attendees, showcasing the community’s commitment to a safer and more supportive environment for children and families.
The organization’s milestone, referred to as their “Victory Lap,” underscored Ketchmore Kids’ mission since its inception in 2005 to deliver hope, healing, and peace of mind. Director of Programs Troy Ketchmore emphasized the significance of creating a safe space where children can enjoy themselves, while also highlighting the importance of engaging families in discussions around violence prevention.
This year’s Family Fun Day marked the fourth annual occurrence of the event, which aims to foster unity and support among families in the Newport News area. Attendees enjoyed an array of activities, including youth vendor booths, live performances, free food, and various giveaways, all designed to entertain and uplift the local community.
Ketchmore Kids has consistently focused on initiatives that elevate families and strengthen communities. Founder Chanell Ketchmore noted the organization’s dedication to providing positive experiences for young people, recognizing that creating joyful memories can play a vital role in their development and future success.
In addition to entertainment, the event also distributed essential school supplies to local children, ensuring that they are equipped for the coming academic year. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes educational success and well-being among youth.
Kevante Artis, a mentor with Ketchmore Kids, shared his personal journey, inspiring attendees by illustrating that change is possible. His message resonated with many, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to empowering young people to envision a brighter future free from violence.
The event also gained attention from local political representatives, including Shannon Jones, the Democratic nominee for Newport News Commonwealth’s Attorney. Jones praised the efforts of Ketchmore Kids in curbing violence and highlighted the importance of investing in community resources to effectively combat gun violence.
With gun violence being a pressing issue in many communities, Ketchmore Kids aims to play an integral role in addressing the root causes and fostering a culture of safety and support. Through events like Family Fun Day, the organization seeks to rally community members around the cause, promoting solidarity and collective action in the fight against violence.
The success of the recent Family Fun Day illustrates the strength of community engagement and the positive impact that dedicated organizations can have on the lives of families and youth. As Ketchmore Kids continues its work, the support from local leaders and community members remains crucial in driving forward their mission of hope, healing, and prevention.
In summary, Ketchmore Kids continues to make strides in the Newport News community, celebrating its longstanding commitment to youth and family support through events designed to inspire, educate, and unite. This year’s Family Fun Day not only commemorated the organization’s 20 years of service but also reinforced the vital role that community involvement plays in preventing gun violence and promoting well-being among the area’s youth.
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now: Ketchmore Kids Hosts Family Fun Day
- WAVY: Gun Violence Prevention Walk Held in Newport News
- Pilot Online: Newport News Community Violence Prevention Manager
- Virginia Scope: Firearm Violence Prevention Bill Passes
- WTKR: Newport News Violence Prevention Manager Shares Insights
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Google Search: Gun Violence Prevention
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence Prevention
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google News: Gun Violence Newport News
