In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the upcoming \"Rock Against Gun Violence Coalition Youth in Crisis\" conference, scheduled for October 26 at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. The event aims to empower young people by providing a platform for their voices and experiences, particularly regarding issues of violence and gun safety.

Council members expressed their commitment to supporting youth initiatives, highlighting the importance of removing barriers to participation. The conference will be free to attend, addressing concerns raised by young people about the affordability of such events. Organizers emphasized that this is a collaborative effort, with all nine council members backing the initiative to foster a sense of community rather than competition among local organizations.

During the meeting, it was noted that over $300 in revenue has been collected, which will be allocated to various youth programs. Council members encouraged the use of these funds to create job opportunities for young people, ensuring they are compensated for their contributions. Additionally, the conference will feature workforce development resources and scholarship opportunities, aiming to provide practical support for attendees.

The event is designed to be unscripted and organic, allowing for genuine engagement among participants. Organizers plan to document the conference through videography, with hopes of making it an annual occurrence. The overarching goal is to amplify the voices of youth in the community and address the pressing issues they face, particularly in relation to gun violence.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their dedication to ongoing collaboration with youth leaders and community organizations, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and support in addressing the challenges faced by young people in the city.