Church program aims to improve Youngstown one youth at a time

By Linda M. Linonis

The program for 12- to 17-year-olds will focus on learning.

YOUNGSTOWN — Pastor Irvin Williams of Hillman Church of Christ said he realizes the church is in “the thick of things” at its location at the corner of Avondale and Hillman.

The area is no stranger to violence. That’s just the reason the church is starting a Youth Off the Streets program.

A registration session took place Saturday and another, in the form of an ice cream social, will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 28.

“There will be mentorship. This isn’t a baby-sitting service. Parents must participate,” Pastor Williams said.

“You have to start somewhere,” the minister said. “Youngstown can’t be changed all at once but one individual at a time.”

The program will be geared to 12- to 17-year-olds. Tutoring and sessions pertaining to leadership and business skills, horticulture and spiritual values will be offered. “But it won’t be about religious doctrine,” Pastor Williams said.

A press release says the mission of the church is “to serve minority, youth, unemployed and underemployed of our community by bringing hope, training and skills through private, not-for-profit community-based efforts.”

Pastor Williams said he has been in contact with the mayor’s office about the program and a local foundation.

Once interest has been gauged and the number of participants registered, Pastor Williams said the program, which will take place on weekends, will get started. Pastor Williams emphasized the importance of engaging young people. “We want to help them know and understand themselves. And help them relate to young and old,” he said.

Pastor Williams said he didn’t see the Youth Off the Streets program as limited to the Hillman church. “We’re open to ventures and involvement from other churches, community groups and others.”

For more information, contact Pastor Williams at (330) 330-2730.