Kent County Commissioner Robert Womack is holding what he calls “State of Emergency” meetings, focused on stopping crime, aiming this month’s message at youth.
“It still takes a village to raise a child, and we have to change what we're doing within this village, within this community, and our focus if we're going to help these children succeed in life and save more lives.”
Corey Penn whose son Amillier was shot and killed in Grand Rapids in 2024, joined a panel of city leaders, law enforcement and community activists who led the discussion about finding solutions by working together to influence change in young people.
“We brought a lot of organizations that have resources because we understand that jail and the police: that's the end of the road.”
Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom says police do play a role.
“But we can't do it on our own. Other adults in the city that really in their heart they want to help these young people, there are other opportunities out there for them to help, whether financially, giving to some of these nonprofits that are doing the real work in this field, or whether it's getting out there and being a mentor themselves to young people.”
Womack shared two videos on rights and responsibilities when interacting with police.
He also introduced a platform called “Partners in Peace” which offers resources for families and a community calendar of events for young people.
