CLEVELAND — In the last seven days, more than 10 people have been shot in the city of Cleveland.
It’s a dark statistic, as the city looks towards building the future.
Myesha Watkins, the executive director of Cleveland Peacemakers Alliance, says FutureLAND provides hope for residents impacted by the ongoing violence.
“There’s a glimpse of hope and even if it’s a smile for 30 minutes before you return back to you reality that moment will forever, it can be life changing,” said Watkins.
FutureLAND is a multi-day conference in downtown Cleveland that’s inspires entrepreneurs, artists and other creative thinkers to grow their brand and in-turn grow the future for Cleveland.
“We plan on being a resource for people in the community throughout the year,” said Aaron Marks, director of finance for FutureLAND.
Marks told 3News Thursday FutureLAND’s hope is to “elevate the city together.”
Watkins, who along with other Cleveland Peacemakers Alliance members support families after shootings, knows that this conference is a step towards inspiring change in the communities.
“When we’re asking people to live in these communities where violence is high to dream it’s the hardest thing to do,” said Watkins.
FutureLAND is a chance for those in Cleveland to hope for a better future.
“With all of these things going on to have a distraction from your everyday life is amazing,” said Watkins.
3News reached out to Mayor Justin Bibb about the recent violence, but did not hear back.
Mayor Bibb is scheduled to speak Friday during FutureLAND with Rich Paul, a Cleveland native who’s built one of the top sports agencies in the country.
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