Summer of Peace Weekend returns to Stonecrest Aug. 1–3, back-to-school celebration set

Stonecrest, GA — The 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, in partnership with DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Priví Stonecrest, the City of Stonecrest.

Office of the Mayor, Peace Baptist Church, and a coalition of local partners, will host the 2025 Summer of Peace Weekend Aug.1–3. 

The three-day, back-to-school celebration is designed to promote peace, inspire learning, and unite families through meaningful programming, cultural engagement, and community-building.

The 2025 Summer of Peace theme, “Keeping it 100 for Peace, Unity, and Empowerment,” reflects a renewed commitment to reducing violence and investing in the next generation.

“This back-to-school weekend, Summer of Peace is our gift to the community—a celebration of unity, family, and hope. We believe that when we invest in our youth and

create spaces for all generations to come together, we build stronger, safer, and more empowered neighborhoods. This is what giving back looks like,” said Troy Vincent, president and chairman of the Board of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County.

Event Schedule 

• Friday, Aug. 1 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Location: Priví at Stonecrest Mall, 8020 Mall Parkway (Lot 1C), Stonecrest, GA
• The weekend begins with a series of interactive workshops and classes designed to educate, inspire, and uplift youth and families. 
• Class offerings include:
• Peace Education Workshop – Led by members of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb, this course focuses on youth violence prevention, conflict resolution, and emotional wellness.
• African-American History Class – A youth-centered learning session exploring Black excellence, legacy, and cultural resilience.
• Grow with Google – Digital skills training designed to prepare students for success in school and career pathways.
• Blend It Up (Garden Life Juice Bar) – A smoothie-making and wellness class highlighting nutrition, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
• PrivíCast Studio Experience – A guided podcast production session introducing youth to planning, recording, and storytelling.
• SeaQuest Animal Encounter – An immersive wildlife program featuring exotic animal education and conservation insights.
• Picasso’s Splat Room – A colorful hands-on art experience that fosters creativity
• and expressive freedom.
• The Fabled City of Pali (Akoma Books) – A storytelling circle rooted in West African tradition focused on teamwork, leadership, and imagination.
• Drone Soccer (Georgia First Soccer League) – A full-contact esports experience that teaches students how to build, program, and fly drones.
• Grief Share (South Candler Neighborhood Advocates) – A healing session offering space for students processing the loss of a loved one.

All classes are free, but registration and waiver completion are required.

To sign up, visit www.privistonecrest.com/summerofpeace.

Saturday, Aug. 2 | 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location: Priví at Stonecrest Mall, 8020 Mall Parkway (Lot 1C), Stonecrest, GA

• Families will enjoy an engaging day of community performances, youth showcases, andfamily activities. 

The day also will include:

• 100 Black Men Induction Ceremony
• Peace Pledge Banner Signing
• Headline Concert by The Red Sample Band (6–8 p.m.)
• Vendor Marketplace and Food Trucks on site
• Free back-to-school haircuts
• Sunday, Aug. 3 | 10a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Location: Peace Baptist Church, Decatur, GA
• The event concludes with a Worship and Legacy Service, featuring messages of unity, healing, and mentorship. All are welcome.

REGISTRATION & CONTACT 

To register for classes or volunteer:

www.privistonecrest.com/summerofpeace

 COMMUNITY PARTNERS & SPONSORS

This event is presented by a collaborative network of partners committed to youth engagement, education, and public safety. Key sponsors and contributors include:

• 100 Black Men of DeKalb County
• DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
• Priví Stonecrest
• E Period Services
• City of Stonecrest – Office of the Mayor
• Peace Baptist Church
• SeaQuest Stonecrest
• Garden Life Juice Bar
• Akoma Books & Coffee
• Picasso’s Splat Room
• PrivíCast Studio
• South Candler Neighborhood Advocates
• Georgia First Soccer League
• Grow with Google
• AI FUNdamentals
• DeKalb Initiative for Children and Families