YouthUp, Inc., a Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) grant recipient, will hold a “Shakin’ Macon Hoops for Life 3X3 Basketball Competition and Youth” on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, starting at 1:00 p.m. It’s a $2 entry fee or a donation of two canned foods. Earlier this year, YouthUp received $20,000 in grant funding from the MVP initiative, and with this money, they have been able to keep their program running and growing.  

The goal is to give teenagers a fun and safe place to be during their Fall Break. Four teams of three students, plus an alternate, from schools all over Macon-Bibb will compete at the Union Baptist Church Gym (1137 Kitchens Street). They have been preparing for this game for weeks and have even selected their own team names.   

“They are really excited about this, and it makes me so happy,” said YouthUp, Inc. Executive Director Amanda Smith. “YouthUp, Inc. was created in September of 2022 in response to the high violent crime and death rate among our youth. Children and teens can be taught to overcome impulsivity and think before they act, to manage their emotions, particularly their anger, and learn to resolve their differences with others by using their words, with respect and grace.”  

About Macon Violence Prevention
Macon Violence Prevention is an evidence-based, multifaceted program created to address public safety in Macon-Bibb County. Supported and funded by the consolidated government, MVP is a community-wide effort that brings together elected officials, community leaders and representatives from more than 20 agencies, organizations, and departments.  

The MVP program operates under the guidance of the MVP Strategic Plan, which was created in June of 2021 by community stakeholders and violent crime experts. The plan combines data and research with community feedback to identify and implement proven solutions that reduce violent crime and strengthen the community over time.