After the murder of teenager Javon Butler, a community meeting was held. What ideas do you have for solutions to violence in Galesburg?

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  The solution has to begin far earlier than trying to stop disturbed people with evil intents.  Society has to take more responsibility for those slipping through the cracks.  Laying off more DCFS workers isn’t the answer.  We need Head-start and preschool, and catching those in peril earlier.  The courts need to quit giving kids back to abusers, and stop perpetuating cycles of abuse.  Schools need an infusion!  The latest research shows that individuals learn differently: auditory, visually, and kinesthetically .  Schools need to teach life skills, like problem solving; and teaching methods need to be geared to how kids learn.  Kids need more physical activity, especially in the younger grades.  Engage them early and keep them engaged!  We need a coalition of schools, nonprofits, and churches to join forces to ramp up youth programs such as The Boys and Girls Club.  Recharge the city’s Youth Commission with those who are truly invested.   Societal measures cost money, but failing to employ them costs innocent lives all across our nation!