A message from our Co-Founder & Executive Director, Dia Nyarko

We are only three weeks away from one of the biggest events we've had the pleasure of organizing so far. And the excitement levels are through the roof! As we get closer to the date I realize there may be some that are wondering... "what is this whole event really about?" So I figured I would take this opportunity to share my heart's desire and goal for the event.

What it's NOT

Let's start with what this event is NOT. This event is not an attempt to join a political agenda. This event is not an attempt to engage in controversial debate regarding gun ownership. I believe there's enough political and controversial debate already going on and neither of these fit into our mission and goals.

What's the goal?

Now, let me share what the goals ARE for this event. During this event it is our goal to join the millions around our nation who have decided to stand together and declare, enough of the senseless gun violence is enough! We desire to compel those under the sound of our voice to consider your fellow man, consider the fact that there is a healthier way to handle conflict. Rather you are dealing with internal conflict or an issue with another person and may find yourself on the edge of making a poor decision, consider the fact that you can handle the issue in a way that does not involve taking another persons life. Circumstances and our surroundings may lead us to believe this is how we resolve issues but we want to be the voice of reason to encourage others... there is another way! This event gives our organization, the City of Lexington and our community an opportunity to stand together in recognition of this issue that is taking place around us and be a part of the much needed change required in our nation.

What's the objectives?

As we have mentioned in previous communications, the objectives for this event is to bring communities across the Triad area together to:

1. Shed light on the impacts of gun violence on our local community. This will allow us an opportunity to share our platform with others in the community so they can share their stories, because all of our stories matter.
2. Educate on ways to resolve conflict in a healthy manner.
3. Promote mental health. Many of us are dealing with internal battles. Some individuals, instead of finding healthy outlets to work through these issues, choose to take out their frustrations on others who have nothing to do with what they're dealing with inside. So we want to take this opportunity to promote investing in ones mental health.
4. Provide practical tips on how we can help to keep our community safe.



We do all of this with a passion for preventing black and brown young men from being on the giving or receiving end of gun violence.

We encourage the local churches, impacted families and friends, as well as the community members who agree that enough is enough to join us for the walk for gun violence awareness. Then join us at the block party for fun, food and fellowship!

Want to be a vendor, volunteer or support by giving a donation?

Click the link below.

The vendor fee is $25 for merchandisers, food trucks and small businesses and $20 for nonprofits (including churches).

Questions? Contact us at support@jldscholarshipfund.org.