Drugs and Gangs: A Community Forum on Public Safety
Communities across the Lower Mainland continue to face the urgent challenges of drugs, gangs, and youth violence. Families, educators, law enforcement, and local organizations all share a growing concern for the safety and well-being of our young people. To address these challenges head-on, we are proud to announce the Drugs and Gangs Public Safety Forum—an interactive, solutions-focused event designed to bring together community members, experts, and frontline organizations.
Hosted by the KidsPlay Foundation in collaboration with the Foundation for a Path Forward, SACH: South Asian Community Hub, and Moving Forward Family Services, the Forum will feature panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. We’ll explore the roots of gang involvement, discuss prevention strategies, and highlight positive pathways for at-risk youth. As part of this commitment to empower and uplift young people, we are offering $5,000 in bursaries for families and their youth to support educational and personal development.
REGISTRATION IS FREE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1243439142949?aff=oddtdtcreator
Date: March 26, 2025
Location: Taj Park Convention Centre, 8580 132 St, Surrey
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
News
[Upcoming] The KidsPlay Foundation and the Foundation for a Path Forward to Host the First "Drugs and Gangs Public Safety Forum" in Surrey
February 11, 2025
History and Need
In recent years, Surrey and surrounding areas have experienced a surge in gang-related activities, threatening the fabric of our neighborhoods. The rising number of drug overdoses and gang recruitment among youth underscores the need for urgent and collaborative action. Our partner organizations have a long-standing history of community engagement, prevention initiatives, and youth support. Their combined dedication to public safety and youth resilience lays a strong foundation for the Forum’s mission:
Educate on the dangers of drugs and gangs
Empower youth with opportunities and leadership development
Engage the community in proactive solutions
Vision
We envision a safer, more resilient community where every young person is free from the threats of drugs and gang violence. By fostering partnerships among non-profit organizations, community leaders, parents, and law enforcement, our collective aim is to create pathways that help youth realize their fullest potential. This Forum is a step toward a future in which all residents can thrive, secure in the knowledge that solutions are within reach.
Mission
The Drugs and Gangs Public Safety Forum is dedicated to: 1. Raising Awareness of the evolving challenges surrounding drugs and gangs in our community 2. Sharing Strategies to keep youth away from criminal influences and substance misuse 3. Promoting Collaboration among local organizations, schools, families, and government bodies 4. Providing Resources such as counseling, mentorship programs, and scholarship/bursary opportunities By centering our efforts on prevention, education, and community support, we believe we can create lasting change.
Partner Organizations
The KidsPlay Foundation
KidsPlay Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on keeping kids away from the dangers of drugs, gangs, and violence. Founded in 2015, KidsPlay has:
- 680+ Volunteers dedicated to youth empowerment
- Hosted 235+ Events including sports tournaments, conferences, and workshops
- Contributed 250,000+ Volunteer Hours toward building stronger communities
The South Asian Community Hub (SACH)
SACH is a non-profit organization offering wrap-around services for individuals and families facing health and social challenges. Their mission is to foster the health and well-being of underserved diverse communities living in British Columbia by providing low-barrier services, counseling, and advocacy through a South Asian perspective in multiple languages.
Moving Forward Family Services
Moving Forward Family Services is a non-profit charity organization that offers free short-term and affordable long-term counselling options to individuals across British Columbia, as well as to anyone in Canada unable to access local support. Their services are delivered by supervised students in social work and counselling programs across Canada, who are in the final months of their education, as well as registered therapists willing to offer sliding scale services to low-income clients.