The United Progressive Party (UPP) announced the need for a Comprehensive Community Renewal Initiative to address Crime, Education, and Economic Challenges in the Silver Lake community.
A release from the UPP states that the party “is of the firm belief that the launch of a comprehensive renewal initiative aimed at transforming Silver Lake through coordinated efforts to reduce violence, expand educational opportunities, and create sustainable economic pathways for youth and families is of the utmost importance.”
“Over recent years, Silver Lake has experienced an alarming rise in gun violence and killings, with many young people drawn into decay due to limited educational and economic opportunities. These interconnected challenges have threatened the fabric of that community and the future of its youth,” Joshua Francis of the UPP stated.
“We recognize that our young people are not the problem—they are facing a problem. When education and employment opportunities disappear, crime fills the vacuum. We must be committed to reversing this trend through bold, community-led action.”
According to him, the Silver Lake Community Renewal Initiative will address these challenges through four interconnected pillars:
1. Community safety and healing, and enhanced community policing focused on relationship-building and trust. Crisis intervention services and conflict mediation programs.
Youth-police mentorship initiatives to rebuild community-law enforcement relationships. support services for at-risk individuals and families
2. Economic Development and Job Creation with the immediate paid internships and apprenticeships for youth in trades, tourism, agriculture, and technology entrepreneurship training with microgrant funding for youth-led businesses with community infrastructure projects that employ residents. Development of sustainable tourism and agricultural cooperatives
3. Education and Skills Training with Vocational training centers with flexible scheduling for out-of-school youth, After-school programs offering structured activities during high-risk hours, Adult education and literacy programs for families
Mentorship programs connecting youth with successful role models
4. Family and Community Support and Comprehensive family counseling and parenting workshops. Substance abuse treatment and recovery programs, and support groups for families affected by violence and trauma.
Community council, including youth representatives, to guide all initiatives seeking partnerships with government agencies, regional development organizations, the diaspora community, faith-based organizations, and private sector partners committed to sustainable community development.
He stated that while some programs will launch immediately to provide quick wins and build momentum, the party acknowledges that deep cultural transformation requires sustained commitment over 5-10 years.
Community members, potential partners, and supporters interested in contributing to the Silver Lake Community Renewal Initiative are invited to reach out to Joshua Francis at uppd767@gmail.com.
“Together, Silver Lake will demonstrate that communities can transform crisis into opportunity and despair into hope,” he said.