Local association supports young people in the face of increasing violence

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — After repeated outbreaks of violence in the community, a local nonprofit hosted a first-ever meet-up for teens, allowing them to gather in a safe environment.

2 NEWS spoke to teenagers and club staff about the problem of youth violence and what can be done to solve the problem.

“It is imperative that we stand together as a community to create more peace,” said Ke’Mya Lam, a youth member.

With more than a handful of teens involved in the recent rise in gun violence, the Boys and Girls Club of Dayton is rising to the occasion by providing an open, safe and fun space.

Since mid-June, there have been 13 shootings in the Dayton area, some within 72 hours. The Boys and Girls Club is on a long list of community members seeking to spur change.

Teen Hangout offers teens ages 13-18 the opportunity to meet with licensed therapists, meet new people, hang out, and have fun.

“After the recent outbreak of youth violence, we wanted to make sure that youth in the community and the broader community know and understand that the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dayton is here for them,” said Crystal Alen, CEO and executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs. “Here in this community, there are people who are committed to your well-being, who are committed to helping you grow into positive, caring and responsible adults.”

Over fifty teenagers were in attendance on both days, including 15-year-old Olivia Mackey and 17-year-old Lam, who have been active in the club for some time.

They say that while it is disheartening to see the violence, getting involved is a big step in the right direction.

“There shouldn’t be so much violence at such a young age. Kids shouldn’t be dying at such a young age when they have their whole life ahead of them and no chance to live. It’s very sad,” Mackey said. “Some teenagers don’t really have the opportunity to go somewhere and have fun because they may not have a ride or they may not have one, but they can come here and have fun, meet new people and have a conversation.”

The Boys and Girls Club not only provides teenagers with a safe place free from violence, but also ensures that they have access to psychological help when needed.

“It’s OK to tell someone or not. OK. We have a saying that we stick together and everyone belongs. If I’m not there, they know the other staff will listen to them,” said Ezra Poole, a local social worker in the South Township.

The Boys and Girls Club of Dayton says it is accepting volunteers and donations that can be shared through the Dayton Foundation.