Distribution of Checks for Community Grants NA09146jl

WHAT:   
Distribution of Checks for “Community Grants”
WHEN:   
June 4, 2009, 1:00 p.m.

WHERE:   
Church on the Way
14300 Sherman Way, Van Nuys

WHO:              
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
Councilmember Richard Alarcon
Deputy Chief Michel Moore, Commanding Officer, Valley Bureau
Representatives from LA City Attorney’s Office, Department Recreation and Parks, LA County Probation Department, LA Unified School District

WHY:       
City of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa , Members of the San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs – including the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, and Public Works are sponsoring a celebration to kick off the community grants awarded by the San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs.   

The San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs is a multi-disciplinary partnership focused on Prevention, Intervention and Suppression of gang activity in the San Fernando Valley.  The mission of the Coalition is to reduce the fear of crime and strengthen neighborhood cohesion, reduce violent gang crime and gang membership, empower the community through education and increased awareness and provide a partnered approach to address issues that promote and enhance lifestyle changes.   

In November 2008, the 1st Annual Children’s Day “A Salute to Kids” family event was held.  Due to its overwhelming success, the Coalition was able to provide grant funds for the implementation of ten individual 4-6 week Gang Prevention, Intervention, and Youth Development programs.  Each grantee was awarded up to $5,000 to accomplish their goal to help keep kids out of gangs.

With the summer months approaching, organized youth activities are needed throughout the San Fernando Valley.  The San Fernando Valley Coalition on Gangs is dedicated to providing youth with fun, safe, and educational activities to become positive contributors to society.  

For more information, please contact Sergeant John Artes, Operations-Valley Bureau Gang Enforcement Detail, at 818-644-8038.