By GENEA NOEL
Freeport News Reporter
With violence at an all - ime high, a newly established youth organization, Bahamas Youth Development Project (BYDP) is working to combat crime with a "Stop the Violence" youth conclave scheduled for July 14- 20th, in Grand Bahama.
Members of this ambitious young group, aged 16 to 20, undertook the theme: Changing my Life to Line Up with God's Character," to target the youth in our community and use spiritual teachings to stop the violence.
Clayton Williams, BYDP president, said that violence in our society is the question and God is the answer. " People are violent because they are unsure of their purpose, this makes them angry and they cannot express how they feel," said Williams.
He added that his group wants to help young people before its too late. "Everyday, we as a nation mourn with family, friends and fellow-citizens who bury their children with petals, tears and sadness," he said.
As violence continues to spiral out of control and bleed into our schools, homes and public arenas, Williams challenged his peers to weigh their options, death or freedom?
Death, Williams said is so final and many young people don't realize how serious this problem is becoming. "We want our young people to make an appeal and choose smart decision that will not end in destruction," said Williams.
The group is lead by a team of young individuals because they believe that the younger generation is greatly influenced by their peers and they have to be pace-setters in creating change.
Futuristically, BYDP plans to establish a group on each island of the Bahamas by 2010 and have their own building by 2012. This young group is very determined in making their dreams a reality as they seek assistance from cooperate agencies and the government. "We want the government and the business community to help us in this effort as we attempt to fix this problem," said Williams.
The conclave will feature several events including worship services, community outreach programs, youth rallies and a beach picnic.
Williams said that they are always willing to help those who want to help themselves. "People first have to realize that they have a problem before a change can take place," said Williams. They also plan to visit each community in Grand Bahama to discuss matters that teens want to know and talk about.
The conclave, which will be held in Freeport and Nassau is for the entire family. BYD wants the support of the community as they address the pressing issue of crime and violence in our nation.
"Expect a transformation, expect a break through, expect a blessing from God." said Williams.
