On June 26, 2025, in recognition of Gun Violence Awareness Day, Ward F Councilman Frank “Educational” Gilmore hosted a panel discussion, bringing together community leaders and organizations working to address youth violence.
It was a very passionate, solution-oriented discussion highlighting the complex challenges of gun violence while maintaining hope and commitment to community transformation.
Major Discussion Topics:
1. Gun Buyback Programs
Panelists discussed the ineffectiveness of current gun buyback initiatives
Suggested improvements like multi-tiered pricing and adding educational components
Highlighted trust issues between community and law enforcement
2. Youth Support and Intervention
Emphasized creating safe spaces and recreational activities for at-risk youth
Discussed mental health challenges and need for comprehensive support
Stressed importance of mentorship and positive role models
3. Funding Challenges
Grassroots organizations struggle to secure consistent funding
Lack of technical support and grant-writing resources
Need for more proactive, sustainable funding models
4. Community Collaboration
Importance of multi-agency cooperation
Creating networks of support for families and youth
Breaking cycles of violence through education and opportunity
5. Parental and Community Involvement
Encouraging parents to be more engaged with children
Creating support systems for young parents
Developing trust and communication between community leaders and youth
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Meet Our “Neighbors to Know”
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![Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County (aka JCACM)]()
Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County (aka JCACM)
Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County (formerly known as the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement)
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![Blacks in Law Enforcement Servicing the Community]()
B.L.E.S.C.
Blacks in Law Enforcement Servicing the Community
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![Greenville Neighborhood Alliance]()
Greenville/Greater Neighborhood Alliance
Mission:
To Build a strong alliance of Block and Neighborhood Associations in order to improve the quality of life in our community through partnerships, outreach and direct action.
www.facebook.com/GreenvilleNeighborhoodAlliance/
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![https://www.ilovegreenvillejc.org/]()
iLoveGreenvilleJC.org
EMPOWER LOCAL RESIDENTS AND STRENGTHEN FAMILIES
ENSURE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY FOR RESIDENTS AND VITALITY OF MLK DRIVE
IMPROVE HOUSING QUALITY AND NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES
CREATE A SAFE PLACE TO LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY
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![Jackson Hill Main Street]()
Jackson Hill Main Street
Situated as a main artery and backbone of the city for generations, here you ll find a firmly established, energized and culturally diverse community with deep roots that is primed for growth and progress. Join us in shaping the future of our community by supporting our cause and the local businesses invested in Jackson Hill. Please explore our website, or click here to learn more about the Jackson Hill Main Street Special Improvement District.
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![Sustainable JC]()
Sustainable JC
• Trees & Trash Action Campaign
• Volunteer For Trees & Trash Here
• Heat Watch Urban Heat Island Story Map (click on bottom right to see all the layers you can turn on, e.g., Asthma geography and other at risk conditions)
• SJC’s Community Solar Program / Solar Landscape profiled on this website page
