As gun violence continues to affect communities across Sampson County, one local nonprofit is hoping residents will take a stand — not only by marching together, but by becoming part of the long-term solution.
Living With A Purpose Organization will host a community march against gun violence Monday, July 13, tentatively slated to begin at the county complex on Rowan Road. The march follows a rash of shootings that has plagued the county in recent months. With numerous cases still unsolved, the organization is inviting residents from across the county to participate in an effort, they say, is about raising awareness, encouraging mentorship and restoring hope for the next generation.
For George Barksdale Jr., director of the nonprofit founded by his wife, Andreana, the march is about much more than one event.
“We wanted to do more for the youth and try to make a change,” Barksdale stressed. “I’ve been on that side before. Through God, I was able to change my life. Now I want to use my experiences to help somebody else before it’s too late.”
Barksdale said the organization was created with a mission of investing in at-risk youth before they become involved in gangs, drugs and violence. “Things have gotten way out of hand,” he stated. “The accessibility to these weapons and these kids with childish emotions are the ones carrying them; it’s a recipe for disaster.”
He believes many young people simply lack positive role models and trusted adults they can confide in.
“Our goal is to build a Big Brother, Big Sister-type program where kids have someone they can call when they’re going through something,” he said. “Sometimes they don’t feel comfortable talking to their parents. We want to create a safe space where somebody will listen, encourage them and help guide them in the right direction.”
The vision extends beyond mentorship. Barksdale hopes volunteers will help students monitor their grades, attend sporting events, go fishing, visit the beach and simply spend quality time together.
“It’s about building relationships,” he said. “If we can catch kids around 12 or 13 years old and put the right role models around them, I truly believe we can see a difference over the next five years.”
Barksdale said today’s young people are constantly surrounded by negative influences online, where violence and conflict often receive more attention than positive examples.
“When kids get on social media, they see people fighting, flashing guns and chasing fast money,” he said. “They think that’s what being successful looks like because that’s what’s constantly in front of them.”
Growing up on a farm, Barksdale said he understands what it feels like to want things a family cannot always afford. That desire, he said, can make young people vulnerable to choosing dangerous shortcuts.
“They want to fit in,” he said. “They don’t want to get picked on because they don’t have the newest shoes or clothes. Some of them end up making bad decisions just trying to feel accepted.”
While youth remain the primary focus, Barksdale said parents also play a critical role in reversing the trend.
“Your child is not your best friend,” he said. “Your responsibility is to be their parent. Kids need structure, accountability and consequences. That’s how they learn.”
He also reflected on lessons from his own upbringing, crediting his parents for instilling values that eventually helped him leave the streets behind.
“We’ve got to get back to respecting our elders and having people in the community who aren’t afraid to help raise children,” he said. “It used to take a village.”
The July 13 march is intended to bring together residents of every age, regardless of whether they have personally experienced the effects of gun violence.
It was inspired, Barksdale said, by the recent deputy-involved shooting that led to the death of Shawn West Jr. on June 12. Barksdale described the incident as a “tragedy,” noting his belief that some accountability needs to take place. “Everyone has a lot of questions, and the answers seem to come back real slow,” he attested.
“This isn’t just about one family or one neighborhood,” Barksdale continued. “It’s about our entire community. Every life matters, and if enough people come together, we can start changing the direction we’re headed.”
He hopes the event serves as the beginning of broader community involvement, with more volunteers stepping forward to mentor young people and support initiatives that provide positive opportunities.
“It may start with one family, then two families, then four,” he said. “Change doesn’t happen overnight, but if we stay committed and keep showing up, we can make a difference.”
Living With A Purpose Organization encourages residents throughout Sampson County to participate in the July 13 march and stand together in promoting safer communities while investing in the county’s youth.