Abraxas Raises Awareness During National Gun Violence Awareness Month
Throughout June, during National Gun Violence Awareness Month, Abraxas honored those impacted by gun violence while engaging youth and staff across our programs in education, awareness, and action.
Every Friday, our teams proudly wore orange—a symbol of remembrance, awareness, and our shared commitment to safer communities. This year’s campaign was especially meaningful, featuring a T-shirt designed by one of our youth. Worn across the Abraxas family, the shirts not only spread an important message but also raised funds to support gun violence awareness efforts.
Creativity and compassion were on display throughout our organization. At Abraxas I, an inspiring mural was created under the leadership of the incredibly talented team member Erikka Long, providing a lasting reminder of hope and change. As night fell, the iconic Sisyphus statue glowed orange, shining brightly across campus as a beacon of unity and remembrance.
Southwood Interventions hosted a heartfelt balloon release in honor of those whose lives have been impacted by gun violence. Across many of our programs, pinwheel displays were placed on campus lawns as visual reminders to remember lives lost, inspire conversations, and encourage action.
Our vocational programs also found meaningful ways to participate. The Coffee Cart Café at Abraxas Youth Center and the Java Junction at Abraxas Academy offered special orange smoothies throughout the month, with proceeds supporting gun violence awareness initiatives.
Youth voices remained at the heart of the campaign through a systemwide poster contest. Their powerful messages and artwork are now displayed throughout Abraxas locations, continuing to raise awareness and encourage conversations long after June has ended.
While National Gun Violence Awareness Month has concluded, our work continues. Through #AbraxasUnarmed, we remain committed to educating and empowering youth to choose change.
