Written by Kathleen Hustad
Within the Rotary Club of North Minneapolis, every member is a force for change, each with a unique way of making our community brighter. Deseria Galloway, CEO of Wellspring Second Chance Center, is a shining example and stands tall as an advocate against gun violence, aligning with our club’s commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
This article spotlights Galloway’s work, with the goal that her story inspires more community members to shine their unique light to help reduce gun violence.
Galloway ignited her commitment to curbing gun violence when her son innocently stepped in to cool down a dispute and ended up getting struck by a bullet. Her son survived, and this event led to a journey of action.
Most recently, Deseria’s Wellspring Second Chance Agency partnered with Priscilla Brown of Urban Ventures in October of 2022 in a “Quick Connect Gun Buyback.” The event led to 121 illegal guns being brought off the street as well as families being connected to an array of resources to support.
Then, in November 2023, Wellspring Second Chance Center and Urban Ventures partnered with “Art is My Weapon,” a non-profit founded and run by Nikki McComb and Urban Ventures. The three non-profits created a powerful art exhibit called “Beauty from Ashes” at 9 Mile Gallery in Edina.
The exhibit showcased the transformative power of art in tackling gun violence. If you search online, you will find news stories with footage and interviews of this powerful event.
As an extension of the Quick Connect and Beauty From Ashes events, Galloway and Brown are focusing on “Where Art and Violence Meets,” empowering young minds through creativity and dialogue. There were two youth violence prevention sessions in December, with more planned next year.
In addition, through Galloway’s leadership and partnership in the Harriet Initiative with Hennepin Healthcare, Empower Therapeutics and Next Step provide a space for gun violence survivors and their families to heal and recover.
Galloway’s journey epitomizes the North Minneapolis Rotary Club’s focus on being part of a movement for peace through service.
Because these projects align with the Club’s commitment to Peace and Conflict Resolution, the Club sponsored the Quick Connect Gun Buyback, Beauty from Ashes, and Where Art & Violence Meets.
“Our club stands by Deseria and all members, offering support and resources as they make their unique impact on our community,” said President-Elect Pamela Warder Russell. “As a club, we collectively champion these individual endeavors that add to the mix of our unique and vibrant Northside when it aligns with our club’s pillars.”
The Rotary Club of North Minneapolis meets online every Tuesday by Zoom from 7:35-8:35 a.m., welcoming Northside community members and professionals to get involved. It is always looking for guest speakers making a difference in our community. Contact northmplsrotary@gmail.com to request the link.
How caring adults concerned about gun violence can help youth
Galloway suggests these steps to support youth. It is important for adults to check in with youth before things escalate — for example, if a student skips school for the first time or is starting to use substances. Early intervention makes a difference, and there are resources to support you in these conversations with youth.
Be open and approachable
– Encourage conversation: Create a safe space for open dialogue. Let youth know you are there to listen and support them without judgment.
– Express love and support: Remind them that you care and are willing to help in any way possible.
Understand youth’s needs
– Listen actively: Encourage youth to express themselves. Listen actively to their concerns, fears and aspirations.
– Ask questions: Ask youth what they need, the barriers they face, and how they would like to be supported.
Seek guidance, connect with relevant community resources
– Everyone is unique, and support looks different for everyone. Counseling services and mentorship programs are two examples.
Galloway suggests organizations as some of many there to lend a hand.
– Next Step: For survivors of gun violence and their families, Next Step offers assistance and resources for recovery. Visit hennepinhealthcare.org/support-services/next-step-program/.
– Harriet Initiative & Counseling through Hennepin Healthcare Trauma Recovery Program: Offers sessions every Tuesday for survivors and families impacted by gun violence. Call 612-388-8645.
– Urban Ventures, Wellspring and other agencies: Contact these agencies for various support programs for youth involved or affected by violence. If you call Wellspring at 612-296-2895, they can pick up a firearm no questions asked. Contact Urban Ventures at urbanventures.org/.
Empower with resources
– Share information: Share this article and encourage parents, guardians, teachers and concerned adults to seek guidance or assistance when needed.
– Encourage listening: Remind adults to actively listen and understand the youth’s needs, allowing them to express their concerns and feelings without fear of judgment.
Remember: each situation is unique
Gun violence involves multiple layers and requires a collective community response. It is crucial to be proactive, engaged and supportive when addressing concerns related to youth and gun violence. Your willingness to listen and seek help can significantly impact a young person’s life.