TIFTON, Ga. (WALB) — A group of former gang members say they are looking to make a change in their lives and their community is partnering with Tift County Commissioner Melissa Hughes for a neighborhood cleanup and youth mentorship event this weekend.

The Community Cleanup and Youth Mentorship Launch is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 5, at 8 a.m. The event will begin at Beulah Hill Baptist Church, located at 512 West 23rd Street in Tifton.

According to Hughes, the initiative began after a group of local men who are former gang members approached her looking for opportunities to give back to the community. The men said they want to help clean up neighborhood streets while also serving as positive mentors for young people.

Hughes said several members of the group are also working to make changes in their own lives and have asked for help returning to school to earn their GEDs.

“True public safety is about providing pathways to redemption,” Hughes said. “When individuals show this level of grit and desire to change their lives, it is our duty as a community to meet them halfway.”

Hughes said the effort is about more than picking up trash. Organizers said they hope the men can use their past experiences to help steer younger people away from some of the same challenges they once faced.

“These men are rolling up their sleeves to improve our streets and protect our children from the pitfalls they once faced,” Hughes said.

Cleanup followed by community cookout

Following Saturday morning’s street cleanup, organizers will hold a community cookout for neighborhood children.

Alliance for Children has donated hot dogs, chips, cookies and water for participating youth.

The cleanup is part of a collaboration between 1Street and Each One Teach One, with organizers promoting a mission of cleaning streets, restoring neighborhood pride and strengthening communities.

Residents, business owners and faith leaders are encouraged to participate in the event and support the volunteers.

The cleanup begins at 8 a.m. Saturday at Beulah Hill Baptist Church, 512 W. 23rd St. in Tifton.

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