Warning League Kick off Celebration
Violence Prevention Programming
[Milwaukee, Wisconsin, June, 2018] On Monday, June 11th, the City of Milwaukee came together for the Warning League Kickoff Celebration at Lincoln Park; to honor the forty-five year legacy that the Warning Leagues has on our city. The event was well-attended by 150 people from the community. Throughout the audience, we were able to see a beautiful blend of Warning youth and Warning alum who participated in the league over the years, giving a feeling of unity throughout the event.
Throughout its history, the Warning League has done its part to assist with helping youth stay off the streets and aim for college careers. Many professional basketball players have played in the league, while other Warning alum have gained prominence as leaders throughout the Milwaukee Community. Some of the well-known Warning players include: Brandon Joseph, Calvin Rayford, Dontay “Peanut Butter” Hicks, Jermaine Ousley, Kevon Looney, Mike Wilks, Rodney Bufford, Shannon Smith and Trae Jefferson.
During the kickoff, Milwaukee Common Council President Ashanti Hamilton and Alderman Russell Stamper came and spoke to the youth about the importance of coming to-gether and enjoying friendly competition with your fellow neighbors in the community. Presi-dent Hamilton also encouraged the youth and members of the community that were present to “carry that competitiveness and cooperative spirit that you have on the basketball court into real life”.
During the kickoff, Running Rebels Community Organization also re-launched their violence prevention initiative called Pause 4 Peace. The initiative focuses on encouraging youth to pause before quickly responding in high-risk and difficult situations. Members of the audience were able to take Pause 4 Peace t-shirts, stress balls, wristbands and postcards to re-mind them of the importance of taking that pause before reacting.
If you are interested in learning more about the Warning League, or if you would like to get involved, please feel free to reach out to the coordination team for Warning at 414-316-5222.
