Families, youth, and adults are invited to be a part of the Annual Gang Prevention Summit on Saturday, January 27. This free event will be located at the Salinas Clubhouse of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) at 85 Maryal Drive behind the Salinas Sports Complex. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.
The Summit is designed to equip Monterey County residents with the tools they need to combat gang violence. Last year, 92 percent of youth who attended said they were less likely to join a gang after attending and 86 percent said they would recommend the Summit to other teens. The event will feature true, life-changing stories, networking opportunities, and resources to help local youth, families and community members curb youth violence and gang involvement.
Carol Cervantes was raised on the eastside of Salinas and currently works for the City of Salinas in their Street Outreach Program. She will be one of the many panelists at Saturday’s Summit.
“Many lives, including mine, were touched at this event,” Cervantes said of last year’s Summit.
Other speakers will include former NFL pro Anthony Toney, Salinas Chief of Police Adele Fresé, BGCMC President and CEO Michael Jackson, and more. The event is sponsored by Taylor Farms and JV Smith Companies.
Registration isn’t required, but encouraged. Please contact Jose Moran, BGCMC director of community relations, at jmoran@bgcmc.org or call (831) 394-5171 for more information. Daycare will be provided for children 4-9 years of age and lunch is also included for attendees. Crossroads Sponsors for the event are JV Smith Companies and Taylor Farms.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) has played an integral role in the community for over 49 years. BGCMC operates Clubhouses in Seaside and Salinas, providing a safe haven for over 600 children and teens a day with programs that focus on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Good Character & Leadership. Club members are offered mentoring and guidance to maintain on-grade school progression, graduate from high school, and prepare for college and careers. Nearly 90% of the total budget comes from generous individuals, corporations and foundations. The Clubs are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. during summer and school breaks, and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. when school is in session. Additional information is available at www.bgcmc.org or via phone at 831-394-5171.
