Savannah youth groups push education over arrests amid gang violence response

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Chatham County Sheriff’s gang unit joins a number of at-risk youth aid groups in the county, but two Savannah organizations say the best way to reach young people is through education, not arrests.

Click HERE to learn about the Sheriff’s gang unit.

Harambee House works with community for decades

The Harambee House has worked on environmental justice and civic engagement for almost 40 years. It is run by the community, for the community.

“Without the community, there is no harambee house,” said Ofunmaja Egunjobi, food, sovereignty and community farm coordinator.

Egunjobi joined the Harambee House for one of its programs years ago. The organization offers numerous programs to help young adults find their passion.

“They’re looking to do something, and they just need a little guidance with that. And that’s what we do, we help bring out the youth natural gifts and talents out but you’ve got to put them in the position to do that,” Egunjobi said.

Partnership with Savannah Impact Program

The Harambee House is a community partner with the Savannah Impact Program, which is run by the police department.

“You have to be given a chance, even though I know you may have caused trouble but you still have to be given a chance,” said LaToyia Daniels, SIP program coordinator.

Daniels said on Thursday, the Harambee House brought three young men to the program’s headquarters.

“All of have charges, either pending or just finishing,” Daniels said.

She said the three asked her for help, including one who wants a career.

“So he said he wanted to sign up for G-E-D, that’s what we have, he wants a job, that’s what we have, collaborative partnerships,” Daniels said.

Former juveniles describe program’s impact

One man said the experience behind bars opened his eyes.

“If you just stay stuck on one thing or the past, you’re not going nowhere, so I let it go and move on,” said Tyrek Lamont, formerly incarcerated juvenile.

Another said he realized how important being educated is to fulfilling his desires.

“Especially people who used to be incarcerated, come to the Harambe house and you can come out of that situation, they help you get job, housing,” said Jaden Daugatry, formerly incarcerated juvenile.

The three young men said these programs should reach kids as young as 5 years old, and not just with “programs,” but with resources and an understanding of what makes each kid happy and excited.