On June 25, 2022, YOURS RSTAR Troubleshooters Team converged at Marcus Garvey Park to host our second annual Stop the Violence Basketball Showcase. This year showcase included youth from various areas in Harlem and upstate New York The event’s goal was to promote healthy physical activities to prevent youth from engaging in negative activities. N.Y.C. has had an uptick in gun violence, and YOURS believes it is essential to keep youth involved in recreation. The opening prayer was provided by Apostle, Staci Ramos, “the Community Pastor “and Evangelist, Merrill Smith from First Emmanuel Church of Jesus Christ. Chaplain Robert Rice, Community Affairs Liaison was our guest speaker who share a strong message with youth to end violence. Deacon Roland Smith encourage Youth to speak with any troubleshooter present about any issues that they are currently experiencing. Overall, the youth were engaged and appreciated th” to go bag” which contained supplies donated by the Pillars, Empire, Blue Cross & Shields, Easy-Living Shelter and Our Lady of Grace School. Many youth engaged in candid conversations with troubleshooters and expressed interest in upcoming events.
The event is held in the memory of Y.O.U.R.S. Board President son’s, Roland “Lashain” Smith, a student-athlete who played basketball and football for Pine Bush High School. Tragically he died during a sporting event. His family cherish his memory by developing the R.S.T.A.R. Troubleshooter Program.
