LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Lexington offers comprehensive support services to youth including those impacted by gun violence through the division of Youth Services located at Family Care Center Wing on Harry Sykes Way, where relationship-building and trauma recovery are central to helping young people heal.
Briana Persley, director of youth services, emphasizes that building trust is fundamental to their approach with youth affected by violence.
"What we try to do is while we have them build that relationship," Persley said. "That is very important, they have to learn to trust and have to know we're there to support them."
The division of Youth Services, when applicable, refers youth to One Lexington. This partnership ensures comprehensive care for young people who have experienced trauma or been involved in incidents involving firearms.
"In any way...whether it's trauma or they actually have been the one that used that handgun, we do referrals to ONE Lexington," Persley said.
The center takes a holistic approach to youth services, offering free programs designed to help children process their experiences and emotions.
"We want to know how we can help you," Persley said. "So it allows them to start breaking down their emotions."
These services help young people become self-aware and identify root causes of their trauma, particularly following incidents like Thursday's triple shooting on South Broadway. The victims have been identified as Julio Vazquez and Mauricio Jenkins, both 20 years old. Voyage Movement Founder Terry Dumphord mentored Jenkins. In an interview with LEX18, Dumphord addressed declining gun violence in Lexington in 2025 for the fourth straight year.
"We know the numbers can spike at any time," Dumphord said. On the first day of 2026, a deadly shooting occurred in a strip mall parking lot.
Dumphord's statement from the Voyage Movement:
📣 Brotherhood of Peace · Sisterhood of Love
A Call to Action to Save Lives
Gun violence is tearing families and communities apart. Too many of our young people are in danger—and we must act now.
We are calling on:
• Individuals at risk to sign up and get help
• Families and friends to sign up loved ones who may be in danger
• Schools, businesses, and community leaders to step up and play a part
👉 Sign up here to connect with support and resources:
⸻
Our Immediate Goals
🎓 10 Scholarships from Every School in the State
To support youth with opportunity, stability, mentorship, and education.
đź’° A $10,000,000 Emergency Life-Saving Fund
To provide:
• Crisis intervention and safe housing
• Family support services
• Violence interruption resources
• Pathways to employment and education
đź“Ť Everyone Has a Role to Play:
• Schools: Sponsor scholarships
• Businesses: Invest in community safety
• Faith Leaders & Civic Groups: Provide safe spaces and mentorship
• Healthcare & Social Services: Offer wrap-around support
⸻
Why This Matters
Every signature could be:
❤️ A youth who gets help instead of harm
❤️ A family spared from loss
❤️ A community strengthened by unity and action
⸻
SIGN UP NOW — HELP SAVE A LIFE
Share this widely.
Post it. Email it. Print it. Talk about it.
Together, we can interrupt the cycle of violence and build peace with love.
⸻
Find a list of of resources provided by the city for those impacted by gun violence here.
