Thursday 9/11 at 5:30pm Fresno. Gather to help make a change in Fresno

I am writing to invite you attend Living Room Conversation's final community conversation about crime, safety, race and gangs in Fresno on Thursday, September 11 at 5:30 p.m. at University Presbyterian Church. We are expecting a large group to gather, and then break up into small groups of 6-8 individuals to discuss various aspects of crime and safety over pizza. People of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to participate - teenagers, elders, everyone!

The conversations utilize a "talking circle" format so that there is equitable exchange around the table - everyone has an opportunity to speak and everyone is encouraged to listen well. The conversations build mutual understanding across diverse viewpoints. However, the conversations also have another purpose.

The "meat" of the conversations is shared with Community Corrections Partnership, the governing body that decides how millions of state funds are spent in Fresno County. So this is a real chance to let our voices be recorded regarding our desires for safety and the impact of policing/incarceration in Fresno. Community Corrections Partnership hasn't previously utilized a public process to include Fresno County residents in decision-making. This conversation allows for public input re how we would like future monies spent.

Below is a sample of the questions that will be asked around the tables. Participants will choose which topic they would like to discuss (each group will discuss one topic from below).

It would be wonderful if you joined the conversation and also invited others to join as well - - youth groups, friends, neighbors, church members, family members, students. Please let me know if you might be able to attend. Thanks so much!

University Presbyterian Church is located near Cedar & Bullard (1776 East Roberts, Fresno 93710).

All peace,
Susan


Round Two: Realignment and the Impact of Gangs ~ 50 minutes
Where have gang members or gangs touched your life? What happened?
What is the best possible community response to growing gang membership?
Where is Realignment on your top-10 community focus list? Why?

Round Two: Realignment, Mental Health and the Community ~ 50 minutes
What is an appropriate level of community-provided support for mentally ill, addicted and indigent individuals?
How do we provide, when appropriate, alternatives to jail for mentally ill, addicted and indigent individuals?
Where is mental illness and community safety on your top-10 community focus list? Why

Round Two: Realignment: Race and Incarceration ~ 50 minutes
Given that African-American men are imprisoned at six times the rate of caucasian men, and Hispanic men at 2.5 times, what do you think is happening?
Where is Realignment on your top-10 community focus list? Why?
What are the factors that contribute to your sense of safety in your surroundings?
How often are you in neighborhoods with a diverse population?

Round Two: Realignment, Release, Recidivism and Community Safety ~ 50 minutes
What is an appropriate “road back to success” in our community for people who have been convicted?
If you or a loved one has been incarcerated, what did you/they need most (and when) upon release?
Since jobs and housing, along with other support, are needed to reduce recidivism, what solutions would you recommend?
Where is community safety and post-release programs on your top-10 community focus list? Why?