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Community comes together after violence plagues Pittsburgh streets

WILKINSBURG, Pa. — After a violent week in Pittsburgh, fathers and sons, coaches and community leaders got together in this Wilkinsburg gymnasium talking about what they can do to connect with young men and stop the gun violence.

“We had six shootings in 10 hours and a 6-year-old little girl. It’s sad, it’s just so sad,” explained New Vision Ministries President Warren Jackson.

For many in this gym, the conversation was personal.

Andre Scott, who is an Able Vision Counseling Therapist, is now working to create an apprenticeship program for teens to renovate and remodel churches in the area. Jackson is opening his business as a safe haven with this message.

“We just want to know how can we stop it, how can we control it, cease fire please,” he said. “I’m 41 and outliving all of you -- and I shouldn’t.”

The men we spoke with say there is a significant mental health component they’re working to address.

“We can’t just keep talking, we have to have options,” Scott said.

They want to help foster a purpose and something to live for in young men and women so they don’t turn to drugs or gun violence.