News Flash

April 3, 2023 - Hampton will come together to mark Youth Violence Prevention Week with events that educate, remember victims, share resources, offer recreation, and, ultimately pull the community together in expressions of unity and hope.

Hopeful Hampton’s Urgency of Now will include:

Young people can express through the arts how they feel about youth violence by creating works on the theme “Walking in Hope” -- and they may win a pair of shoes. The contest is open to people aged 10-17, and the deadline is April 19. Read the rules and enter. 

A family reunion-style afternoon will kick off the week at Gosnold’s Hope Park on Sunday, April 23, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. that begins with remembrances of people affected by violence, but moves into a celebration of faith, family, and purpose. Recreational games, food, and activities for all ages will be offered. The people who register by April 14 will receive a special Reunion of Hope t-shirt. Registration

On Monday, April 24, join us for Hope, Hampton, Football at Y.H. Thomas Neighborhood Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Games of 7-on-7, including mentors and police officers will square off. Neighborhood resources will be available, along with food and fun. Between games, there will be high school step shows. Registration on-site.

Wednesday’s Hope After Dark is a mix-and-mingle social night for grassroots organizers to engage, connect and learn from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 26 at Bar Louie. Join a podcast with Powered by Virginia Radio. Appetizers provided. Must be 21 or older. Registration

Dinner and a celebration will culminate the week’s activities on Friday, April 28 at 6:30 p.m. The Gala of Hope held at the Hampton Roads Convention Center will feature R&B and soul singer-songwriter Leela James. It will include a dinner, video celebration of the week, and a recognition ceremony to celebrate the work and accomplishments of youth and young adults, grassroots organizers, and leaders helping to reduce the impacts of gun violence. Formal attire preferred. Limited seats; registration required by April 14. Registration

Also during the week, middle- and high-school students will meet with businesses, entrepreneurs, and community partners to learn business and financial literacy in a pep rally/resource fair environment. This is a school field trip and not open to the public.

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities sponsors the Urgency of Now. Registration information can also be found at https://hampton.gov/HopefulHampton

For more information about getting involved or volunteering, contact Latiesha Handie or 757-727-2730.