For him, the mission is personal.

Keith White is the program director for the Fort Myers Police Athletic League. The PAL recently hosted its second annual Stop Gun Violence in Our City Fall Palooza event, one that Keith is especially passionate about.

Why?

Because a few years ago, Keith lost a child to gun violence.

Feeling empty and depressed, he wondered where to turn to receive support for his mental health as he grieved such a tragic loss. Keith knew that others must be suffering in the same way, so he thought about ways to bring awareness to the silent ways that families and friends struggle with mental health when someone they love is a victim of gun violence.

The event is for community members, mental health organizations, local law enforcement, and firefighters who want to show support for the cause. Those who’ve lost loved ones have a space to openly reflect, talk and heal with others who can relate. The vendors and community members come together in hopes of filling a void, offering resources and support to children who need information and support.

As attendees enjoyed food, bounce houses, and kickball games, important conversations were happening all around. Lutheran Services Florida has a partnership with PAL, so we attended the event and invited families we work with who wouldn’t have known about the event otherwise.

In the picture left to right: Jacob Swihura Intensive Case Manager, Daniel Antenor Youth and Community Engagement Coordinator, Keith White PAL Director, Erick Scott Oasis Shelter staff Supervisor, Shelia Dixon SW Regional Director, Johnny Brown Community Counselor.

This partnership helped to expand the reach of those who showed up, spreading the news to even more community members who’d benefit from the experience.

“Organized events like this are so critical in our community because it connects people feeling heartbroken and alone to resources to lift them up,” Shelia Dixon, Director. “LSF’s programs in Southwest are the front-end prevention provider to help youth stay out of trouble and hopefully prevent them from going down a path leading to high risk behaviors and potential to be a victim or perpetrator of gun violence.”

Our programs in Southwest Florida focus on at-risk youth, if you know a struggling teen, please call (239) 278-1030.

In the picture left to right: Jacob Swihura Intensive Case Manager, Daniel Antenor Youth and Community Engagement Coordinator, Keith White PAL Director, Erick Scott Oasis Shelter staff Supervisor, Shelia Dixon SW Regional Director, Johnny Brown Community Counselor.