Group Helps Residents Overcome Violence

After tragedy struck a Zanesville community, the residents banded together to feel whole again.

When a young boy was killed in south Zanesville, Kathy Dickerson and her daughter decided to create a group to bring the small community together. Community of voices meets once a month at Putnam Hill Park to provide free food, a basketball tournament, music and fun for kids of all ages.

"We have the fire department here, we have the fire house here. We have games available. We have music here. Its just something for us to give back to the youth for Fun Day. Just something we wanted to do to give back to the community and the young people," said Dickerson.

The family fun days have given the youth something to focus their energy on instead of being drawn into violence in the area. Being a part of something like this has helped build their character which in turn has helped their community.

"Its important I think to look for ways to rebuild a sense of connection among the community because for the young people who dont feel engaged it seems that they are more likely to be involved in the violence," said Reverend Sue Ellen Skinner, who helps organize the events.

Saturday marked the last day of the events for the summer but there will be a candlelight vigil September eighth at Putnam Hill Park to remember those who have been killed through violence in the city.