The City of Auburn, Auburn Police Department, Auburn School District and other local youth organizations have teamed up to host Speak Up and Get Involved III – a community forum on juvenile issues and gang prevention strategies.

The free forum is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 15, from 5:30-8 p.m., at the Messiah Lutheran Church Community Room, 410 H St NE.,

Auburn. A free dinner will be provided, courtesy of the Auburn Youth Council from 5:30-6 p.m.

Keynote speaker Lawrence Stone, from Tacoma’s Big Homie program, will address the issue of gang presence in and around South King and North Pierce County. Stone is a former gang member and drug dealer who uses his street knowledge to teach adult and teen audiences about how to unravel the appeal of youth gangs.

Recognizing that gang association represents a complex set of problems, Stone and the Big Homie program promote cooperation between local government, schools, police and youth to seek long-term solutions.

“Auburn has a history of successfully handling the needs of children and youth in the community,” said Dr. Kip Herren, Superintendent of Auburn Schools. “The well-established and supportive partnerships between the school district, the city and various community organizations make it possible to proactively address these needs, creating a safer environment for young people and providing quality resources.”

During separate, small breakout sessions for youth and adults, staff from the city, school district and other community-based programs will be on hand to answer questions, provide information about gangs and youth violence, and listen to concerns from those in attendance.

For more details about the forum, please call 253-931-3043 or visit www.auburnwa.gov.