Newly formed citizens group Peoria Community Against Violence met for the first time Tuesday at the downtown Peoria library. The new volunteer group is part of the city’s Don’t Shoot anti-violence program.
It aims to help tie together existing organizations and service providers. The specific goals are to help neighborhoods develop safety strategies and reach out to crime victims. Police Chief Steve Settingsgaard says the new group is also a much-needed bridge between community members and the Police. “With a better outreach into the community, gaining better trust and cooperation. This can also serve as a bridge for us to reach out, to build that trust and somebody is willing to come forward say what they saw, testify, so we can clear those cases quickly.”
Settingsgaard says it’s about preventing more violence by helping people find a more peaceful lifestyle. Those interested in participating in the new group are encouraged to visit one of the six open houses throughout the community.
Open House Schedule
Monday, May 5th
6-7 PM
East Bluff Community Center
512 E. Kansas
Saturday, May 10th
2-3 PM
Lakeview Library
1137 W. Lake
Thursday, May 15th
6-7 PM
Logan Center
1414 S. Livingston
Tuesday, May 20th
6-7 PM
Lincoln Library
1312 W. Lincoln
Thursday, May 22nd
6-7 PM
Universalist Unitarian Church
3000 W. Richwoods Blvd.
Saturday, June 7th
1-2 PM
Riverplex
600 NE Water St.