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Indy community leaders offer summer camps to help prevent crime, keep kids safe

"We're tired of seeing our young boys growing up dropping out of school or getting killed," said Rev. Malachi Walker.

INDIANAPOLIS — Multiple shooting incidents made for a violent Sunday evening in Indianapolis. 

IMPD is investigating after six people were shot in Indianapolis in a four-hour period.

Two people died and four were injured. And although the victims this weekend were adults, there's also a real focus right now on protecting young people from violence.

As summer approaches, many young people will be out of school and looking for ways to spend their time. Community organizers are encouraging youth to join summer camps and stay away from crime.

"We're tired of seeing our young boys growing up dropping out of school or getting killed," said Rev. Malachi Walker of Great Commission Church of God.

For the last 30 years, Walker has been helping boys and teens succeed. He started the group Young Men, Inc..

"Every year, I take in about 75 to 80 boys and about half of those return year after year," said Walker.

The eight-week Christian military-style day camp teaches them tough love.

"When you're pulled over by a police officer, what are you supposed to do?" said Walker.

They also learn about gun safety.

"If you're caught with a gun or you're with somebody who has a gun, there are some stiff consequences. You could ruin your life forever," said Walker.

They participate in myriad other activities, including recreational activities.

There are several Marion County organizations prepping for summer camps to keep youth engaged, like Indy Parks.

"You may find a passion that you didn't know before, and that's kind of the great opportunities with these camps is, it's just endless opportunities for personal growth, learning new things," said Alex Cortwright, a spokesperson for Indy Parks.

Indy Parks is also hiring teens for summer jobs.

"It gives them something to do. You make a pretty good wage. It's great experience. It can kind of be a good tie-in to future city employment," said Cortwright.

Indy Parks will also open a new Frederick Douglas Park Family Center in June.

"The center itself has two full-sized basketball courts, room for fitness and workout amenities and it also has a technology and podcast room, which I think is really perfect for these youth because that's a cool opportunity to learn more," said Cortwright.

Cortwright said there are also scholarships available for youth to attend camp.

Young Men, Inc. offers Hoosiers the opportunity to sponsor a young person for camp by donating to the program, which offers transportation, meals and more.  

The goal is to keep youth engaged and on the right path.

"It is my prayer that every young man that I come in contact with that I see life, I see success and let them know you are somebody and you can succeed," said Walker.

Young Men, Inc. will have an open house on May 9 and May 16 at 6:30 p.m. Click here to register. 

You'll find more information on Indy Parks and Recreation programs and summer jobs by clicking here. And there's more information about other summer camps here

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