November 25, 2008
Charles White: 770-473-2737

Community Forum on Gang Awareness Set for December 4

JONESBORO - A collaborative of Clayton County agencies has joined forces to combat violence among the young people of the county.

The county's judiciary, in conjunction with law enforcement agencies, the faith based community, local governmental leaders, and Clayton County Public Schools, will sponsor a Community Gang Awareness Forum on Thursday, December 4, 2008. Scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., the panel discussion will take place at Mundy's Mill High School, 9652 Fayetteville Road in Jonesboro.

The 90-minute forum will feature law enforcement officials, psychologists, social workers, guidance counselors, and representatives from the juvenile court. The moderator for the evening will be Pastor Andre' Landers from New Birth South Metropolitan Church. Dr. John Thompson, superintendent of Clayton County schools, and Clayton County Chairman Eldrin Bell are expected to share their respective visions for the school district and the county as it relates to the issue of youth violence with a special emphasis on gangs.

This event will serve as a kick-off for a multi-faceted approach to the issue. Additional forums will be held throughout the county. In addition to those appearing at the kick-off event, County Commissioners, Mayors, and Police Chiefs of the cities hosting the additional forums will be part of those discussion panels.

The community-schools task force is issuing an invitation to the general public to attend the series of forums that will be held county wide beginning with the December 4 event. It is hoped that information shared at these programs will make residents aware of the issues confronting Clayton County's leaders regarding youth violence and will serve as a catalyst for the development and implementation of strategic plans that will deal effectively with gang issues in all communities.

If you have any questions about the kick-off event on December 4, contact Dr. Anthony Smith or John Walker at 770 473-2760.