ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Community members gathered in Albany for “Real Talk: Stop the Violence,” an event focused on guiding young boys and men through meaningful conversation and testimony on Saturday, Oct. 17.

According to Dougherty County coroner Michael Fowler’s Facebook post, speakers including Travis, Luke and Leonard Bateman shared their personal stories and real-life experiences to raise awareness about the impact of violence in the community.

According to Fowler, topics included stopping violence, staying out of trouble, resisting peer pressure, making positive choices and faith.

Fowler said the conversations are important to provide guidance, encouragement and positive role models, and to remind young men that their lives have purpose and a future worth protecting.

The message to attendees was to put guns down, walk away from violence, and choose life, peace and faith.

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