Message From Anita Williams
Taking It To The Streets Crusade Rally is a weekend event that has served the community of the WNY Area for the past 22 years as one of the most vital tools necessary to discourage the negativities that thake place in our city on a daily basis; it is also an outward stand against corruption and amorality. The Martin Luther King Jr Park in Buffalo has been the site fo rthis event since its conception. The MLK Park is a landmark on the east side of the city; this area has been slated on a scale of 1 to 10 as a 9 for the atrocities that take place (drug use, murders, prostitution, rapes, muggings, etc). The concept of Taking It To The Streets was initiated nearly 23 years ago as I sat in the MLK Park with my (then young) children watching a basketball game. The park was full of people - some watching the game, some passing through, and some just idly standing by. As I sat there, I thought "how wonderful it would be to have activities in the park that actually address the woes of the neighborhoods and communities" ... thus, Taking It To The Streets was born.
Over the years, this even has grown to be citywide and community expected, with a large diversity of participants, nationalities, orgainzations, youth groups, businesses, politicians, and anyone who wants to see a change for the better in the community. This event offers an alternative to the negativities that take place in the community with on-site counseling with intensive themes aimed towards drug abuse, parenting, and job training and readiness. Since the Rally is held during the "back-to-school" shopping season, there is also free food (non-perishable), clothing, and school supplies giveaways. Approximately 60 percent of families in that area are headed by families; some are jobless and have "a hard time of it" and look forward to our help. The clothing is donated by a variety of stores and community members. The food is donated by community members and anyone who will hear and respond to our plea. There have been free pony rides and zoomobile visits for the children. I keep these treats free to the children because I am certain that many of the children in the area have never ridden a pony or experienced a visit to the zoo due to low income or neglect. There is also a health fair that offers various testing such as cholesterol, blood glucose, weight control, literature, and HIV prevention. All of this, along with job fair information, takes place during the event.
This event also involves drill teams, drama teams, step teams, a parade, fire safety education, clown visits, and toy giveaways. We have also had the Erie County Sheriff's Deparment land their helicopter and the Buffalo Fire Department bring their fire engines for the public to view. There is singing, music, and all kinds of wholesome entertainment going on, as well. All these activities are geared toward drawing in the community individuals sot it will allow someone to encourage them on a personal level right in their community.
Statistics have shown that a portion of those who lack guidance, leadership, encouragement, and accountability are more likely to participate in crimal activity. The Rally offers follow-up contact and house visits. We have established a success rate of 80 percent as far as meeting Taking It To The Streets expectations for the community. There is no other event like this in the city; Taking It To The Streets looks at the community from a holistic point of view and has been responsible for saving lives by way of action, interaction, and prevention.
Why don't you come out and bring your family and see what Taking It To The Streets is all about? And if you would like to support the Taking It To The Streets Rally in any way - becoming a vendor or entertainer, donating material goods, or providing financial support - please contact us. Every one is welcome to be a part. I look forward to seeing you there.
Sincerely,
Anita Williams - Founder - Taking It To The Streets
