One Lexington has its sights set on a survivor support network guided by those who have firsthand knowledge and understanding of the problems that face individuals and families in the aftermath of gun violence.
Survivor support can mean de-escalation, retaliation prevention, funeral services, legal referrals, relocation, and counseling.
"We need survivors administering survivor support," One Lexington head Device Carama said. "They have the lived experience. They know the challenges personally and so now today we are implementing something that, just a little over a year ago, was just an idea."
Pending approval by the Urban County Council, One Lexington wants to allocate $70,000 to contract with agencies that can expand survivor-centered programming. Those agencies would be founded or managed by a survivor of gun violence.
Mayor Linda Gorton also highlighted the upcoming Antonio Franklin Jr. VIP Peace Walk. It will take place at Duncan Park from 2-4 on April 25.