Community members, local leaders, law enforcement, city officials, and youth recently gathered at the Rainier Beach Community Center for the Fathers and Sons Together (FAST) Impact Community Safety Summit and Walk For Change. The collaborative event focused on addressing gun violence, enhancing public safety, and developing actionable, community-driven solutions through shared responsibility and direct dialogue.

With Mayor Katie Wilson in attendance, the event gave youth and residents the opportunity to discuss public safety directly with city government. Seattle Police Department Crime Prevention Coordinator Mark Solomon highlighted the collective effort required among all community sectors. To drive long-term impact, King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention Director Eleuthera Lisch outlined a multi-pronged strategy encompassing prevention, intervention, and community stabilization.

While the battle against gun violence is a long-term fight, gathering collectively after every tragedy strengthens the community's resolve, Lisch said. By fostering open dialogue and mutual support, the community hopes to pass on a safer, better-equipped environment to the next generation.

"Never underestimate the power of one or two. But when you multiply that power by everybody that you saw in the room, what could we not get done?" Solomon said.

Learn more about Fathers and Sons Together at www.fastfathersandsonstogether.org