By Shanna Fuld
The city Department of Probation brought attention to both gun violence and domestic violence at a street fair last week.
Closing down Union Hall Street in Jamaica, various organizations were given an opportunity to showcase the services they offer to the Queens community to help people lead successful, non-violent lives.
Raymond Napier, who has been a probation officer for more than two decades, said the Department of Probation tries to do the fair every summer. He described the fair as a “one-stop shop” where people could find mediation programs, youth projects and other activities that get people together in a positive way. Napier said that the main focus is anti-violence and anti-crime.
“We’re trying to interact with the community to see who can help. A lot of times law enforcement is looked down upon. We’re trying to help the community, not harm the community,” Napier said.
This department tackles violence at the neighborhood and community level.
Ivory Williams, a juvenile probation officer, accompanied Napier at the booth and reflected on her experience dealing directly with young people. She said that if she could plant a seed that changes the path they are on, she believes she has accomplished what she is supposed to do.
“You can’t deal with an issue on a broad level if you can’t deal with it right at home,” Williams said.
An organization called 100 Suits for 100 Men helps the community by making suits available for previously incarcerated people. This organization helps them get jobs by supplying them with work attire, hair cuts, wigs for women, and even helps set up job interviews.
Vendors served food at the event and music was played while people talked and promoted their services. The message of the day as Napier put it, like Michael Jackson said, it all starts with the man in the mirror. .
