Promoting peace in Peoria.
Gloria Clark has been involved with Peoria Community Against Violence for over five years. She got involved with the organization to help make a difference in the community.
“I got off my bed, and got involved. I see the impact when we go into the hospital when someone has been murdered, when there’s a homicide here in Peoria. I see it on the streets. I see the family members thanking us for being there. Even if we do nothing other than hold their hand,” Clark said.
She tells WMBD’s Greg and Dan that in order for things to change in Peoria, everyone needs to get involved.
“I think it’s just getting out in the community. Making yourself available. Right now there’s a handful of us doing it. We’d like to see more.”
PCAV’s Andrew Barra says their core group is currently made up of about 20-30 individuals from all over the city, from all walks of life.
Barra says people that critize their efforts after a homicide has occurred, aren’t helping.
“That’s a major cop out. That’s kind of the response that you hear from someone that doesn’t want to help.”
Peoria has seen 19 homicide deaths in 2019.
PCAV is holding “HopeFest”, a community outreach event, this Saturday, Sept. 21, from noon-5 at Trewyn Middle School, at 1419 Folkers.
For more information, click HERE.
