DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Community leaders and families are uniting around one goal — a safer Decatur.

CREW is a blend of local organizations building a community-driven safety plan, which they say is long overdue. 

"CREW is necessary for the community because it brings resources for prevention as well as awareness," said Shekila Smith.  

City leaders, nonprofit organizations and health groups are joining forces, working together to keep the community safe.

For some, this mission is personal, as Smith is a survivor of gun violence. 

"In 2024, I was a victim of violent crime. If I had the support CREW is working to provide, my healing journey might not have taken as long," Smith said.  

Research shows gun violence is driven by poverty, inequality and a lack of community resources. CREW's goal within five years is to build stronger support systems that prevent violence before it starts. 

"We need to do something differently about gun violence in our community, and figure out what that looks like to truly serve our needs," said Mary Garrison, CEO of Heritage Behavioral Health.  

A key focus is investing in teens and young adults. One mother said safer, more enriching activities are critical. 

"As a mom of three boys, I worry. There have been shootings all over. But it gives me hope knowing the community is coming together to support our kids, " said Jessika Dampeer. 

CREW is now entering year two, working to secure funding and assign clear roles to partner organizations. The group plans to have quarterly meetings in the future.

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