Grand Rapids reminds community: SAFE Task Force Pitch & Highlight Night is Oct. 28

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The City of Grand Rapids is reminding residents that the Safe Alliances for Everyone (SAFE) Task Force will host its next Pitch & Highlight Night on Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the MLK Park Community Center, 900 Fuller Ave. SE.

Ten finalists will present their innovative project ideas designed to reduce violence, create pro-social opportunities and address mental health needs for youth ages 15 to 24 in Grand Rapids. Attendees will hear five‑minute pitches from each participant and learn about the potential impact of their proposed solutions.

Following the presentations, five winners will be selected to partner with the City and receive up to $10,000 each to launch their projects. Funding will support initiatives implemented between March and September 2027.

“Every time our community comes together to share ideas, we take another step toward reducing violence in Grand Rapids. We look forward to Pitch Night because it shows what’s possible when residents bring their creativity, lived experience, and commitment to safer neighborhoods,” said Latesha Lipscomb, civilian violence prevention and intervention manager for the City’s Office of Oversight and Public Accountability.

Event Details

• SAFE Task Force Pitch & Highlight Night
• Wednesday, Oct. 28
• 6 to 9 p.m.
• MLK Park Community Center
• 900 Fuller Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

What attendees can expect

• Food, Fun, Fellowship!
• Meet the finalists: Ten project ideas will be shared.
• Hear five‑minute pitches: Participants explain how their project reduces violence or supports youth well‑being.
• Engage & learn: Attendees can ask questions and connect with presenters.
• Winners announced: Five projects will be awarded funding and City partnership.

More information is available at: https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/departments/oversight-public-accountability/cure-violence/safe-task-force/

About the SAFE Task Force

Projects chosen for funding must align with the goals of the SAFE Task Force and support violence reduction strategies outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan and the Police Department’s Strategic Plan.  

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