DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - One group of community organizations is joining forces to stop the violence in Decatur.
CREW is a blend of various community leaders and organizations, creating a plan for violence prevention. Melverta Wilkins is the convenor of the group.
"It's all of our responsibility to work together to build up this type of community. Because once we all are together and we're unified, then we can make those changes happen," Wilkins said.
The community response and engagement workshop has a foundation of seven pillars, including collaboration with community groups and youth education enhancement. One community partner is Decatur Police Chief Brad Allen.
"He's very active. He's very responsive. He's in attendance, he's present, and he's helping us with data, with communications," Wilkins said.
Wilkins said many gun violence-related issues involve the youth, so youth outreach and mentoring are a big part of this safety plan.
"I know a lot of young people, I know a lot of the people in the families that have been affected by gun violence," Wilkins said.
Each of the seven stages aims to address the needs of the community, such as housing and job stability. The CDC says preventing community violence involves public health and social services.
"I know what it can do to tear up morale, spirit and families when we go through these types of things. But we are working, and I want the community to know that they are welcome to work with us," Wilkins said.
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