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INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – The City of Indianapolis is launching its third annual Safe Summer program Friday, aimed at engaging teenagers in safe, productive activities while school is out.

The program began with 900 participants aged 13-18 in 2019, according to city officials. It still ran during the pandemic with 400 teens and is returning for a third year.

Events happen every Friday night from 7-10 p.m. at Bethel Park, Frederick Douglass Park and Municipal Gardens. Community partners include IMPD.

Activities include a basketball tournament, “Trap and Paint” (a painting course set to trap or hip-hop music), a talent show from Voice Corp, gym events from the Boys and Girls Club, career courses and a “Know Your Rights” class.

It also hosts a program called “Guns Down Gloves Up,” where teens learn boxing to help them release energy or resolve conflict safely.

That event is right in line with Safe Summer’s mission, according to Shonna Majors, Indianapolis Community Violence Reduction director.

“We have a high rate of violence in the city and we want to make sure the kids out of school actually have a place to enjoy themselves and not worry about gun violence,” said Majors. “And as they continue to grow, they may run into a conflict and say, ‘Hey, I remember you from Safe Summer and this guy is cool.”

The program runs until Aug. 3. It’s free and according to Majors is a “show up” not a “sign up” event.

Safe Summer leaders are also still looking for volunteers to help manage events. Email OPHS@indy.gov to learn more.

 

Source: WISHTV

 

Indy restarts ‘Safe Summer’ events Friday nights  was originally published on radionowindy.com