An initiative addressing gun violence, fostering community connections, and promoting wellness was showcased at an event at Bardwell Residences, 301 Weston Ave., Aurora. The four-hour event, organized by Project Safe Aurora, was highlighted by the Kane County Health Department, the coalition’s lead agency.
Titled ‘Lighting the Way to a Safer Aurora,’ the event featured live music, prize giveaways like Chromebooks, gas cards, and biometric gun safes. Guests delivered presentations on safety measures. Elizabeth Nunez, a violence prevention specialist with the Kane County Health Department, emphasized the event’s significance. ‘Gun violence impacts public health beyond just the individual. Our goal is to build community trust and awareness of available resources while promoting safe gun storage,’ she explained.
The initiative originated from a state grant under the Reimagine Public Safety Act. ‘We focus on high gun violence areas, creating a coalition driven by community data, voices, and innovative strategies,’ Nunez said. The coalition includes over 27 organizations involving law enforcement, domestic violence groups, and youth development, all working collaboratively to address violence.
This year, Nunez has engaged neighborhood groups and leaders to enhance awareness of Project Safe Aurora, leading to a community safety action plan. ‘We employ data to identify violence trends, particularly from the Aurora police transparency hub,’ she mentioned. ‘Monthly, we review gun violence reports and notice incidents frequently involve the East Side of Aurora and 14-24 year-olds.’
The strategy includes partnering with the East Aurora School District, incorporating a restorative practice program to foster trust among schools and administrators.
Aurora Alderman Jonathan Nunez, 4th Ward, attended to meet visitors. ‘Months of work, especially by Elizabeth Nunez and the Kane County Health Department, led to today’s event,’ he commented. ‘The aim is reducing gun violence in Aurora, especially among our youth.’
Attendee Ilda Valdez of Aurora attended the speaker sessions to learn about the project. ‘It isn’t discussed enough. Bringing more awareness is essential for community involvement,’ she said. ‘Supporting police, fire, and social services, while understanding gun control issues is vital.’