By the time they arrive, it's too late. Any defensive strategy against gang activity must happen well in advance of any organized presence. But then again, how does a concerned community battle what seems to be an ever-increasing and an ever-more menacing presence?
Enter people like Ozzy. Through the retelling of his own story (he has walked the walk and talks the talk now), and through the witness he gives every day of his genuine love and concern for young people, especially for those who are at risk of falling prey to gangs, many a potential gang member has been 'saved' from the life which would lead to certain doom.
Ozzy himself says that what he's about is teaching youth to avoid a life of crime. Earlier this week, he arrived in the city and for the next three months, will be conducting a bike build with some of Sudbury's young adults. His somewhat unconventional methods have proven very successful with young people in Northern Quebec, and he's also planning to visit in Iqaluit in the coming weeks where he'll trade 'survival secrets' with young people in that far-northern community.
The secret to his success is based on relationships. If we take the time to get to know not the external person, but the often scared child who is hidden beneath layers of masks and hurt, and if we invest the love and caring to convince them (even for a little while) that they are truly loved, we might get through to them, and save them from a life of destruction.
As the projects here and elsewhere unfold, we'll be watching and celebrating the little victories.
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