With gang violence on the rise in Chattanooga, many are clamoring for the madness to stop. One local group, called Stop the Madness, has been working to end the cycle of gangs and bloodshed in the Scenic City since 2005.
Stop the Madness Executive Director DeJuan Jordan is launching the first Second Time Around Prom for adults in Chattanooga. The event, which will benefit outreach programs for local at-risk youth, will be held July 14 from 7-11 p.m. at The Colonnade in Ringgold.“We exist to provide young people with services to reach their potential,” said Executive Director DeJuan Jordan. “Many of our kids are not able to get into other programs because of their past. We give youth alternatives to negative activities. We teach them life skills, academics, job skills and how to improve their college access.
“We want parents to be more responsible and accountable to their children.”
In an effort to raise funding for Stop the Madness programs for local students and their families, the first-ever Second Time Around Prom will be held July 14 from 7-11 p.m. inside The Colonnade in Ringgold, Ga. Any individual or couple in the Chattanooga area is welcome to purchase tickets to attend.
“We want to get our name out there through the prom and let people know we are here for youth and families,” Jordan said. “Not only is it for a good cause, but it will allow adults a chance to get out and have a good time. Everyone needs that time to get out. We are trying to bring the community together to help further our mission. If someone wants to sponsor the fundraiser, they can be recognized and acknowledged.”