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Groups plan positive message for Orangeburg; event to show there is 'more than violence'

Times & Democrat - 3/19/2019

March 19-- Mar. 19--Two groups will be working together this weekend to provide positive and helpful information to youth following recent violence.

"Lately we've had a lot of negative stuff happen in the City of Orangeburg. We want the community to realize there is more than violence. They can just come together and have a good time," said Christopher Green of Open Mind Mentoring and the Odyssey Group.

The "Beyond the Border" event will be held Saturday, March 23 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Orangeburg Area Development Center located at 1060 Pineland St. The event will feature empowerment sessions, guest speakers, music, vendors and food.

"We were just looking at a lot of things that are going on with our community and also with our youth in terms of violence, gang activities, bullying and different things like that," Green said.

"What we wanted to do is bring some awareness to the community and let them know that there are resources out there just in case anything happens," he stated.

Green said the guest speakers will offer encouragement and guidance.

"We will have individuals that are telling their stories about how they overcame challenges in their lives, from being a bully to being a part of a gang, or being locked up in jail, and how they changed their life around to do something great," Green said.

The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety will be in attendance as a vendor, and the victims advocate is a sponsor, Green said.

"We want the community to gain some information and knowledge about what's happening in our community, what's available and who they can talk to just in case they have any type of issues so they can be safe," he said.

Green also noted that other vendors and entertainment from local youth groups will be featured at the event.

Green said he expects the event to inspire the community.

The event is free and open to the public.

"All we want them to do is come out, gain some information, hear the speakers, get some food and have a good time," he said.

For more information call 803-997-0643.

Contact the writer: bharris@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5516

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