COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — As the summer season moves forward and school structure fades, local leaders in Whitehall are stepping up to give teens a positive outlet, through basketball and mentorship.
At John Bishop Park, the group ‘Real Situations’ has launched a Summer Violence Prevention Program in partnership with community leaders.
Their goal: keep kids off the streets, engaged, and safe.
Antonio Gordon, founder of Thursday Night Thrillers, told ABC 6 that the idea came from his own experience.
“I try to implement things I would’ve wanted as a teen, somewhere to go, something to do,” he said.
More than just a game, basketball nights at John Bishop Park serve as a lifeline, offering mentorship, access to vital resources and a sense of community.
With youth violence often rising during summer months, this grassroots effort is making a real difference, meeting kids where they are and showing up with support that matters.