Showing Troubled Kids a Different Path [AUDIO]

Kenny Williams, of Trenton, had seen enough.

"I kept picking up the newspaper and seeing killings in Trenton," Williams said, "Everybody kept saying the kids were so bad, but nobody was doing anything."

To combat this ongoing problem, he launched Urban Warfare, Inc. The goal of the program is to create an intervention and prevention aspect, while providing a safe and fun environment away from the stresses of the street.

Williams linked up with the Trenton Housing Authority, where he requested the use of the Donnelly Homes Community Center to host the kids each Friday from 5 to 8PM.

"They gave me two months, and this was in 2005," he explained, "and it's still going strong."

Each Friday he provides food and the safe haven, along with activities. Williams funds the program out of pocket by working another job. It might be tough, but he realized that somebody needed to step up for this cause.

"I'm a part of their lives," Williams said, "just showing that's not what it's all about, and just being there and showing them we care about them."

Since the inception, Urban Warfare has seen over 2000 youth through their doors, with many still coming back to help. On average 80-90 kids come to the Friday program. Kenny Williams has seen tangible results from what has he done.

"it's been helping the kids and the city of Trenton," Williams said, "the gang problem is not there in the Trenton Housing Authority"

"I show them a different way."

OTHER GOOD NEWS IN NEW JERSEY:

Essex Hudson Chapter of the Association for the Education of Young Children

Teaching New Jersey children the importance of voting is the aim of a program by the Essex Hudson Chapter of the Association for the Education of Young Children.  Take Your Child to Vote is a program that encourages parents to take their kids to the voting booths on November 8.  The group has distributed materials about the program to child care centers, pre-schools and schools throughout their area.  To learn more, click on http://www.njaeyc.org/

National Shine a Light on Lung Cancer Vigil
Lung Cancer Alliance

The Lung Cancer Alliance will hold its 3rd annual National Shine a Light on Lung Cancer Vigil with at least 50 vigils planned nationwide on November 1.  The effort aims to rally people together to bring attention, honor loved ones and provide hope, compassion, and support for the millions touched by lung cancer every year.  In New Jersey, a vigil is planned at La Travernas in Dayton from 7pm to 9pm.  To learn more about vigils in your area, go to www.shinealightonlungcancer.org.