On February 19, the Community Safety and Justice Division hosted a Community Gun Violence Response Meeting at Centennial High School. The meeting brought together community residents, Blueprint Partners, City Manager Joan Walls, Deputy City Manager Christopher Walton, Mayor Debroah Feinen, Council Members Shauna Clayborn, Matthew Gladney, Vanna Pianfetti, Bob Pollett, Kathy Shannon, and other City officials to engage in a meaningful conversation about strategies to reduce gun violence and strengthen neighborhood safety in Champaign.
The meeting provided an opportunity for attendees to share their perspectives, voice concerns, and collaborate on sollutions. Participants discussed the importance of increasing the visibility of Blueprint Partners within neighborhoods so residents can more easily connect with available programs and services. Suggestions included hosting more events directly in the community, improving outreach efforts, and making information about resources more accessible and easier to understand.
Attendees also emphasized the need to strengthen communication and coordination among community organizations, residents, and City staff. Improving these connections was identified as a key step toward building trust, ensuring timely support for those impacted by violence, and creating a more unified and effective response.
The Community Safety and Justice Division will use the feedback gathered during this meeting to help guide future engagement efforts and continue working alongside residents and partners to advance the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint. The Division remains committed to fostering an open dialogue and collaborative solutions that promote safety, healing, and opportunity throughout the Champaign Community.