Photos: Peace and Prevention Summit Unites Community for Violence Prevention

Sponsors and speakers of the 2024 Peace and Prevention Summit. Photo credit: Mahkayla Grogan. FCDAO ©

The Fulton County District Attorney’s Office and Atlanta Public Schools joined forces on August 17 to host the 2024 Peace and Prevention Summit at Frederick Douglass High School.

The summit brought together local officials, experts, students, and community members for a day dedicated to discussing critical issues surrounding violence prevention.

The event featured a series of workshops tailored to both adults and youth, focusing on pressing issues such as gang prevention, youth violence, human trafficking, and decision-making. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in specialized sessions and engage in meaningful discussions with the goal of inspiring change that will reduce violence in the Atlanta community.

Lashawnda Woods-Roberts (Fulton County District Attorney’s Office Senior Assistant District Attorney) and an attendee hug during the Lunch & Learn session at the 2024 Peace and Prevention Summit. Photo credit: Allison M. Slocum. APS ©

A highlight of the summit was the “Lunch & Learn” session titled, “The Gang Crisis in Fulton County – What to Look For,” facilitated by Justin French, formerly of the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office. During this session, participants were provided with lunch while gaining insights into the signs and challenges of gang activity in the area.

In addition to the workshops, the summit featured a job and resource fair, offering attendees access to crucial services and information. Notable vendors included Kaiser’s Mobile Health Vehicle, which provided free health screenings, and Grady Hospital’s Stop the Bleed Hands-On Training, equipping participants with lifesaving skills.

The Peace and Prevention Summit’s impact will extend beyond the event through the REACH Program, a 12-week initiative that will launch in two middle and two high schools. This program, aimed at supporting 20 students per school, will focus on mentorship, job skills, and resources to enhance the safety and well-being of the participants. For more information, contact the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office Director of Juvenile Youth Services, Aakeem Woodard, at aakeem.woodard@fultoncountyga.gov.

Enjoy the slideshow below of the 2024 Peace and Prevention Summit. Photo credits: Mahkayla Grogan, FCDAO and Allison M. Slocum. APS ©