Non-Profit Love Washtenaw Kicks Off “40 Days” Drive to Reduce Crime

Community News
This Saturday, June 22, is the official county-wide kickoff for a new organization that plans to have a long-lasting impact on the quality of life in Washtenaw County. From June 22 through July 31, Love Washtenaw, a faith-based coalition, dedicated to improving the lives of others, by engaging the community-at-large through outreach events with the goal of having a positive impact on lowering crime during the summer. 
 
“To break the cycle of crime, young people need to have a healthy relationship with one healthy adult; have a positive sense of self; and have a sense of being a part of something bigger than themselves,” said Reverend Daniel Jackson, Executive Director, Love Washtenaw. “That’s why we are coming together with love, compassion and action of service for 40 days with at least 40 mobilization events with a goal for more. June 22’s events are just the beginning, and we want volunteers to help us to keep the excitement and action going.” The organization also needs more Washtenaw businesses to sponsor programs in the same neighborhoods where they work. 
 
WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 2024 
WHAT: Community Blessing Festival, Resource Fair and Bike Give-away – Noon to 6 p.m. 
WHERE: MOUNT OLIVE COGIC 436 Hawkins St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197 
ABOUT: Family-fun event featuring live music, free food, children’s activities such as games, bounce house, petting zoo and face painting, alongside community resource tents. 
ONSITE CONTACT: Rev. Daniel Jackson –(734) 548-2129 
 
BACKGROUND: This initiative is supported by the Washtenaw County Sheriff and The City of Ypsilanti after a study showed that Washtenaw County’s crime rates rose in July with specific “hot spots” and that the crime was retaliatory in nature, often being generated at funerals. While churches played a role at the end of life, they have now formed this coalition to break the cycle of related crime. 
 
Volunteers can sign up: https://lovewashtenaw.org/events/love-washtenaw-kick-off-event/ 
 
MORE INFO: Love Washtenaw call (734) 548-2129, or visit https://lovewashtenaw.org/ 
Media Contact: Julie Walke julie@walkepr.com cell 858/449-2332