Summer of Peace: Free workshops, live music, activities to combat youth violence

100 Black Men of DeKalb, Privi, City of Stonecrest,

DeKalb CEO-Elect Lorraine Cochran-Johnson unite  as sponsors

 STONECREST, GA —The 100 Back Men of DeKalb County will kick off its “Summer of Peace” at the newly-opened Privi at the Mall at Stonecrest.

 The organization was joined by community leaders at a press conference on Friday to announce the program for youths ages 10 to 19 that will span five weeks, starting July 5 and continuing every Friday through Aug. 2, 2024.

Held at the newly opened Priví at Stonecrest Mall, program will feature workshops, classes, and violence prevention training followed by a weekly Friday night Summer Concert Series featuring top local acts, food trucks, and vendors.

This transformative initiative is organized by the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, in collaboration with Priví, the City of Stonecrest, and DeKalb CEO-Elect Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. 

“Investing in our children today ensures a legacy of strength and resilience tomorrow,” said G. Bernard Levett, Jr., President, 100 Black Men of DeKalb County.

During the summer initiative, several groups will provide activities and workshops related to youth engagement and violence prevention, as well as social activities. Participating groups include HWPL, Inc., 100 Black Women DeKalb Chapters, NCNW DeKalb, Top Ladies of Distinction New Rock, Junior League of DeKalb County, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department and Grey Media. 

“I am proud to invest in our youth and community. It is imperative that we provided meaningful experiences for our children – they are our greatest resource and it is crucial we do more,” said Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, DeKalb CEO-Elect.  

The program also plans to hire 10 youths for five weeks to assist in event implementation while providing work experience and skills. 

The details and schedule of events are as follows:

Dates: Every Friday starting on July 5th and running through August 2nd

Location: Priví at The Mall at Stonecrest, 8020 Mall Pkwy, Stonecrest, GA

Time:  2 – 6  p.m. – Free Youth Workshops, Classes, and Training

Peace Education Training, Multimedia painting workshops; self-defense classes; podcasting; radio broadcasting; music production; cooking classes; grief management; and more. 

6 – 9 p.m. – Free Summer Concert Series

Live concert performances by local artists including Soul Cartel, Headliner the Band, Ryan Kilgore, The Tony Tatum Experience, Red Sample, and more. 

 “Peace begins within. Let’s nurture these young minds and watch them bloom,” said Stonecrest Mayor Jazzmin Cobble.
“Parents, guardians, and community members, mark your calendars! The Summer of Peace Program promises growth, connection, and joy. Together, we’ll create an environment of harmony—one child at a time.” 

For more information, to register your child for workshops or get free tickets to the concert series  please visit: www.PriviStonecrest.com/SummerofPeace

Video & Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/ocgnews.com