Danville church holds 6th annual Anti-Violence Basketball Tournament

DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - A Danville church is using basketball to promote a message of peace and community.

More than 160 students participated in Mosaic City Church's 6th annual Anti-Violence Basketball Tournament at Danville Area Community College.

Organizers said the event used basketball to bring youth together and promote unity throughout the community.

Mosaic City Church Pastor Lestan Hoskins said, "We want to keep the students occupied in our community. We want to build relationships with them. We also want to let them know that we care about them. So, this is an opportunity to build relationships with them to encourage them and also to send them off before they go into the summer just with a positive message and tell them to make good decisions and think before you act. 'Hey, you got potential,' and say, 'Hey, we want to see you do something great with your life.'"

Organizers said the annual tournament continues to grow and remains a key part of the church's efforts to engage local youth and reduce violence.