Twenty-four youth gathered in the caged octagon set in the parking lot of the New Image Youth Center in Parramore. The group reportedly showcased their fighting skills in the ring.
No Headshots
In a report with the Associated Press, Ruben Saldaña refereed the youth group. He gave one rule to the students: no headshots.
Saldana was a former leader of an International Posse Gang. He now leads the Credible Messengers of Florida. Tracy Cox, a former student of his, assisted in manning the air horn.
He told the news outlet that the concept of Credible Messengers drew inspiration from former Black Panther Eddie Ellis. The group seeks to address incidents of youth violence in the area.
The youth leader acknowledged that most troubled young people did not trust the police.
The news report said that initiatives like these have become necessary to prevent violent offenses in the country.
Meeting How to Prevent Crime in Area
The group met in November last year at New Life Church of God in Christ. Representatives discussed ways to prevent crime in areas with high incidents of violence.
One of the most affected areas was Pine Hills. The census-designated place records the highest number of youth arrests in Orange County.
Earning Trust of Youth
Saldana pointed out that he talked to the gang members in those high-crime areas. He stressed that he worked hard to earn their trust.
He explained that to gain this cooperation meant that he did not carry a gun or wear a badge.
The group also receives no government funding for its efforts. Saldana funds its projects out-of-pocket. He told the news outlet that he is currently seeking nonprofit status for Credible Messengers.
Local organizations also help support the youth group. Credible Messengers collaborated with many mutual aid programs and activities for young people.
Traumatic Past
Saldana admitted that he did not have the happiest childhood. He was raised by parents serving in the military. When his parents divorced, he had several encounters with the law.
His wife, Audra, grew up in Orlando. She also suffered "all kinds of abuse" in her home.
Saldana said that he did what he could to overcome the trauma of gun violence and gang activities. He said the poison became the cure when it came to his healing.
Audra pointed out that it was easy for these troubled children to fall into drugs or crime. She admitted that when she was younger, there were times when she found it hard to believe in God.
These days, Audra practices her Christian faith. She stressed that one could not force their beliefs on these young people. One had to build a relationship with them first.
Receiving Grant
Credible Messengers might receive a grant through the Department of Children and Families. The money would be used to fund community intervention programs.
Fiona Shannon, a Moms Demand Action advocate, pointed out that necessary work in the country could not be sustained unless funded.
She often partners with Credible Messengers. Shannon told the news outlet that there were many roadblocks, but she was convinced that this was the way to change the children's lives.
Shanta Barton-Stubbs has worked with Parramore's youth since she founded the New Image Youth Center in 2004. Barton-Subbs met Saldaña last year.
They have since worked on mentorship and MMA training programs. These projects have gained popularity in the community.
She pointed out that the boys needed each other. They have also become closer now that they have found a role model in their life.
Years of violent incidents in Pine Hills have led to many Orange County leaders searching for a solution.
An article with The Orlando Sentinel recounted an incident when a three-year-old boy was shot and killed in his home.
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