SJ community group responds to rising youth gang violence with month of events
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- Leaders in San Jose are concerned about several cases of gang violence, many involving teenagers.
The gang violence has meant a busy month for youth violence prevention groups, working to keep kids out of trouble before school starts up again.
Pastor Danny Sanchez, an East San Jose native, is a leader in youth violence prevention but has had a violent past.
"I know if I had somebody like me or my team out there supporting me, my life would've been different," he said. "You know, because like they say - one caring adult can change hundreds of lives."
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After being a youth pastor for years, Sanchez founded the organization called The City Peace Project.
"So our mission is to mentor and advocate for youth so they can see their value and find peace with themselves and others," Sanchez said.
You can find him and his team holding events at summer schools and parks. They create safe and engaging environments year-round.
Pastor Sanchez is also a volunteer chaplain for the city of San Jose. He responds to families in crisis who have just lost a loved one to youth violence.
"I've seen the dark side of this and a lot of the kids don't understand that their life is on the line," Sanchez said.
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So far this year, there have been at least two gang-related homicides in San Jose.
Sanchez hopes a series of events this month will help keep kids safer.
"It's amazing to see if you empower these kids, they can do amazing things - they're not too young," Sanchez said.
Sanchez believes in the power of being the light for others.
"I'm passionate because I came out of the lifestyle where I used to destroy, but now I build," Sanchez said.
Anyone interested in the work they do or partnering can visit The City Peace Project.
