January 17, 2003

RELEASE IMMEDIATELY

CONTACT:
Officer Phyllis Stuckey, (510) 621-1248 or
Officer DeLon Jackson, (510) 685-5812

 RICHMOND POLICE
SPONSOR PUBLIC SAFETY SUMMIT

Faith-based organizations will provide cornerstone
to Vision of Hope Partnership

Police Chief envisions grass roots movement
to create support network for at-risk youth

The Richmond Police Department invites the public to attend a Public Safety Summit to introduce the Vision of Hope Partnership on Wednesday, January 22, 2003, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m., at the Richmond Memorial Convention Center Bermuda Room, 403 Civic Center Plaza.  Participants will include representatives from the local faith-based community.  Topics for discussion will include youth outreach, parolee intervention, ABC liquor license and liquor store compliance, and weed and seed program.

Police Chief Joseph Samuels says there is a need for active collaboration with other local entities to develop a committee to help reverse some of the negative social influences affecting Richmond’s youth. 

“It is my mission and vision to start a grass roots movement,” says Samuels. “This campaign will be directed toward transforming street corner youth into viable components of society by offering them assistance and alternatives that are different from their current lifestyles.”

Along with representatives from the Police Department, City of Richmond, Contra Costa County and private industry, Samuels has also included local faith-based organizations as an integral component of the partnership because of their current work with the youth through “street ministries” and outreach programs.

The network will provide effective training, assistance, guidance, and support for the youth who are willing to participate.  Additionally, the partnership will offer direction and guidance, along with rewards, stipends and incentives for their active and positive participation.

For more information, please contact Officer Phyllis Stuckey at (510) 621-1248 or Officer DeLon Jackson at (510) 685-5812.