In a proactive effort to reduce gun violence and promote positive engagement among youth, the City of Lake City’s Program for Youth Intervention and Development hosted a Teen Open Gym Night at Lake City High School on Thursday, July 17. The evening event welcomed all rising 8th through 12th grade students for an evening of fun, games, music, mentorship, and community building.
Spearheaded by Officer Dwayne Skinner, Youth Intervention and Development Program Coordinator with the Lake City Police Department, the event brought together more than 100 youth and adult participants, including families, police officers, school coaches, and city leaders.
“We were pleasantly surprised to see full families come out, participate, and stay for the duration of the event with no negative issues,” said Officer Skinner. “The most common feedback we received was from youth and parents asking, ‘When are we doing more?’”
“This program is an instrumental part of our city’s proactive approach to reducing teen crime in our community,” said Mayor Yamekia Robinson. “By creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and engaged, we’re helping build a stronger, safer future for Lake City.”
Lake City Police Chief Patrick Miles, the Lake City High School Principal and Athletic Director, and Mayor Robinson each played a hands-on role in the event under a shared vision of leading by action. City officials in attendance included City Clerk Nicole Verner and Council Member DeWonika “Cola” Cooper. All LCPD officers and LCHS coaches who volunteered were recognized for their dedication.
“To me, it was a small snapshot into what can be accomplished with vision and cooperation from those in charge,” said Officer Skinner. “This event showed our youth that we believe in them, and we are willing to lead with action and not just words. The majority of our kids just want a safe place to enjoy being kids.”
The event has also sparked renewed energy around future youth-driven programming. “Our youth are asking in many different ways if we ‘see them,’” Skinner added. “This past Thursday we answered YES with a collective voice, and there is more to come.”
For more information or to get involved, contact Officer Skinner at dskinner@cityoflakecity.org or (864) 525-6815.