"Save Our Streets" rally highlights local anti-violence groups

South Bend, Ind. -- A local group hosted a rally against violence Saturday afternoon.

The Nu Black Power Movement, Fremont Park Youth Foundation, and many other groups came together for the Save Our Streets rally at Jon R. Hunt Plaza in South Bend.

“It’s violence on every corner,” said one event organizer. “I’m not only upset, I’m more so disappointed because we can do better.”

On Friday, back to back shootings took place at the Beacon Heights Apartment complex. Two shootings out of close to a dozen in the months of March and April.

“I know how it feels to lose somebody, and see a mother cry, and a family lose somebody over senseless and reckless situations,” said Blu Casey, an event organizer.

Casey said Saturday’s rally was about getting people involved in organizations within the community.

“Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best anybody can serve,” said Casey. “Find out what’s going on in your community and get involved.”

Casey said most of the city’s violence is due to mental illness and poverty. He said many organizations, trying to curb these issues, are looking for volunteers.

“We don’t get involved until it affects us, so get involved before it happens to you,” said Kimberly Taylor, who attended the event.