COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

1120 BRIARGATE CIRCLE #21851 PHONE (803) 638-8042

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA 29210 EMAIL: INFO@BROADRIVERBA.ORG

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 10TH, 2023

Broad River Business Alliance, Richland County Councilman Derek Pugh, Restaurateur and
Business Owners Michelle Edwards, and Mr. Scott Knight of "The River" Sports Bar and Grill
Present "YTH" Youth Town Hall. Located at: 2344 Broad River Road Columbia, S.C. 29210

Columbia, S.C. - The Broad River Business Alliance, in collaboration with Richland County
Councilman Derek Pugh, Restaurateur and Business Owners Michelle Edwards, and Mr. Scott Knight
of "The River" Sports Bar and Grill, is delighted to extend an invitation to you and the youth in our
community to attend the "YTH" Youth Town Hall. The event will take place on Sunday, May 21st,
2023, from 4pm to 6pm. Councilman Pugh will be providing lunch for attendees.

The primary objective of this town hall is to empower and amplify the voices of youth and young
adults aged 12-25. The prevalence of gun violence in our nation has often portrayed young people
solely as victims on a large scale. Unfortunately, amidst the discussions in news outlets,
government agencies, and community initiatives, the perspectives of young people have been
largely absent. It is crucial to hear from the youth and young adults who, in many cases, are both
victims and aggressors, as reported by the U.S. Department of Justice. This is especially evident in
the tragic mass shooting that occurred at Meadow Lake Park in Richland County, South Carolina.

For further details regarding the background of this story, please refer to the attached abstract
and the call to action from the President of our local alliance. We believe that by collectively
addressing the persistent violence affecting our communities across South Carolina, we can make a
tangible difference.

We cordially invite mentoring groups, youth program leaders, and concerned parents to bring their
children and young adults to this event. It is essential to provide a platform for young people to
express their perspectives, observations, and concerns. We want to ensure that the world
understands that our youth possess a voice, are intelligent, informed, and aware of the events
transpiring around them. Merely debating solutions among adults without directly involving the
most impacted group, simply due to their age, is insufficient. We must genuinely listen to the youth
and gain insight into their needs in order to effectively serve them and ensure the long-term
success of programs catering to their demographic.
We have reserved spots for 12-16 youth and young adults who are eager to have their voices heard.
Please note that the session will be recorded, and upon arrival, a taping release/waiver must be
signed by a parent/guardian, granting permission to the Columbia Urban Broadcast Network to
create a YouTube video utilizing the content. This footage will act as a catalyst for broader
conversations and serve as an advocacy tool representing the youth's perspectives. Throughout
the event, supportive services will be readily available, including assistance from the Midlands
Mediation Center to ensure a focused and youth-centered environment.

This program revolves around the youth, and every aspect of it is designed to protect and value
their opinions and viewpoints.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our sponsors for their unwavering commitment to serving
children and young adults. We eagerly anticipate your presence at this meaningful event.

Media Contact: Javar Juarez

President/ Executive Director
Broad River Business Alliance Allied Community Partnerships Division
Info@broadriverba.org
803-331-8397