“Our commitment is to prevent violence:” City leaders tackle Memorial Day crime with community led efforts

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – It was a violent Memorial Day weekend.

Four people were killed and fourteen people were injured in non-fatal shootings across the city.

The Office of Violence Prevention is working to tackle crime in Milwaukee neighborhoods through community-driven events. It is a part of the Blueprint for Peace initiative.

“Our commitment is to try to prevent violence on the front end so the trauma and impact on that, doesn’t have to be experienced on the back end,” said Reggie Moore, Director of the Office of Violence Prevention.

Last year, the office put half a million dollars to support events like “Heal the Hood.”

Through data, they’ve seen a decrease the amount of violence following these types of events.

“Oftentimes violence thrives in neighborhoods and environments where people don’t come outside, people don’t trust each other and the expectations of safety are lower. That’s why these events are powerful to really raise the power of the community in being a solution on this issue,” said Moore.

The next community driven event is Wear Orange Stop the Violence Youth Rally at the Northside YMCA from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Upcoming supported events by Office of Violence Prevention:

Annual Birthday Bash for Kids sponsored by Homer Blow: June 23 @ Fitzsimmons Boys and Girls Club 2:00-6:00 p.m.

COA Safe Summer Kick Off: June 8th 4:00-7:00 p.m. 

Heal the Hood: July 14th 10th and Center 12-6pm and August 26 on 24th and Burleigh 12:00-6:00 p.m.

We Got This Summer Kick Off: June 16 @ Community Garden on 9th and Ring 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.