Community Activist Targeting At Risk Youth - WICU12/WSEE Erie, PA News, Sports, Weather and Events

Community Activist Targeting At Risk Youth

2012 was a violent year in the City of Erie. So community activist Sonya Arrington is making sure that changes in 2013.

Three years after her son was fatally shot, Arrington kicked off her new mentoring program called L.E.A.D. - Leadership Empowerment Accountability Diversity.

In this program, Arrington will work with at risk youth throughout the community. The kids in the program will meet Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Booker T. Washington Center. Various speakers, mentors and round table discussion will make up L.E.A.D.

"I want to give a lot of hope, a lot of vision to our kids out there, and take some of this violence of the table so these kids can start be more productive and live a better lifestyle," said mentor Rodney Cray.

Arrington says her program isn't just for the youth who are troubled. She believes its important to talk to all youth, and let them know people are there to listen.

"I want everybody to know - the kids, the parents - if you ever need to talk to me, I'm here," said Arrington. "If you're a parent who is just at their wits end, and need help, then L.E.A.D. is where you want to be."

Arrignton is teaming up with the Erie Police Department and other community organizations. In February, she will also be taking over the Out of School Suspension program.