Violence in our community is a crisis according to those working to stop it.
As we’ve seen several violent incidents in recent weeks in Hampton Roads, News 3 stopped by the My2K Foundation to learn more about some of the work done in Norfolk to address issues before they escalate.
“Before the crime even happens, let’s sit down. Bring them in this room,” said Calvin Williams, executive director of My2K Foundation.
He sat in a room at the organization’s home base. Take a look around, and you’ll spot positive words painted on the walls. This is where the group has talked with people in conflict.
“And that’s what needs to be done. People need to have conversations,” said Williams.
Those conversations — where folks choose words over weapons — happen in the community too.
“Everybody say we need to talk things out. Talk things out to who? Who do you talk things out to? You all have a problem right there in real-time, usually people are not getting involved. They’re watching it go down, put their camera out and record it. They let it happen, more or less. My organization, other organizations like it, are there. We’re there. We’re boots on the ground and we’re going to mediate it. Come up with a positive solution,” said Williams.