Community Basketball Game and Discussion Events Work to Reduce Gun Violence

The Portland Peace Initiative Seeks Solutions to Gun Violence

A community discussion about solutions to gun violence will take place May 17, 5 to 7 p.m. and will be live-streamed. The 90-minute, open dialogue conversation is designed to strengthen community resolve to address gun violence. Presented by the Portland Peace Initiative (PPI) and convened by IPAC (Interfaith Peace & Action Collaborative), this fifth meeting of We The People Table Event will give community members an opportunity to address concerns and a chance to hear from others about their solutions as Portland continues to address the scourge of gun violence.

Portland Police and Black Youth on the Courts

S.T.A.R.S. Mentoring, will host ‘Bridging the Gap’ basketball game at Beaumont Middle School, 4043 NE Fremont St., on Friday, May 13 from 5-7 p.m., with Mayor Ted Wheeler in attendance. A basketball dunk contest will be featured, a 3-point shooting challenge and a lively game with Black youth and Portland police officers playing together.

S.T.A.R.S. Mentoring provides mentorship and programming for at-risk alternative school students between the ages of 12-21, helping them to successfully transition to contributing members of their community. S.T.A.R.S. serves youth affected by DHS, foster and Juvenile Court systems. S.T.A.R.S. helps youth create individual success plans that promote social change in their community. It serves gang-affiliated/gang-affected students by providing them with the resources and opportunities needed to lead a healthier lifestyle.