Charlotte nonprofit tries its own kind of ‘teen takeover’ promoting peace

Originally posted on WBTV: Charlotte nonprofit tries its own kind of ‘teen takeover’ promoting peace

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - As teen gatherings dubbed “street takeovers” continue to make headlines in and around Charlotte, one nonprofit is launching its own kind of takeover — one aimed at making peace go viral.

My Brother’s Keeper Charlotte has launched The 704 Way Project, a youth-led initiative that uses pop-up events to spark conversations, disrupt violence, and promote positive change among young people throughout the summer.

College student leads the charge

College student Luke Barron is spending his summer helping the organization bring the project to life.

“Charlottes become my home. I really want to see it grow and grow the right way and not go down the wrong path,” Barron said.

Barron was hired to create engaging pop-up activations designed to reach young people where they are. He said his approach to brainstorming is personal.

“I speak to my friends at times, my parents, and a lot of it is just self-reflection, because I am my own audience. I believe anything I would truly want to do is what my peers would want to do as well,” Barron said.