Second chances for “Show Us Your Guns” grads

by Steven Glover

CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - 13 young people celebrated second chances after completing the first phase of a program aimed at breaking the cycle of gun violence.

The graduation and Family Night took place at the Empowerment Center in Garden City Thursday night. The event honored participants for their commitment to personal growth, accountability, and positive change.

“This program gives you a second chance,” one graduate said. “It really helped me a lot… helped me grow my mindset, start seeing things differently.”

Rep. Carl Gilliard, founder of the “Show Us Your Guns program”, said the initiative started four years ago to divert first-time offenders away from gun charges.

“The whole thing is to break the cycle — break the cycle of incarceration and break the cycle of those who are having gun charges,” Gilliard said.

Now led by the Chatham County Gang Prevention and Intervention Commission, the program emphasizes mentorship, life skills training, and restorative justice practices.

Participant Bryce Jackson admitted he didn’t take the program seriously at first, viewing it only as a way to resolve his charge. But the experience changed his perspective.

“It has helped me push through and get through the dark times,” Jackson said. “I even recently just graduated from college at Savannah Technical. The program taught me that one mistake don’t define you.”

Javion Simmons echoed that message of forward progress.

“Responsibilities and priorities, you have to make sure that’s all straight,” Simmons said. “Only go forward. Growth is the only option.”

The evening included participant reflections, family celebrations, and recognition of mentors and community partners.

Savannah continues to see gun violence at a pace similar to last year, according to Savannah Police Department data. In the department’s latest report, ending the week of July 4, police reported 15 homicides so far this year, compared to 17 during the same time period in 2025. Since July 4, Savannah has recorded two additional homicides.