Anti-gang efforts growing in Valley

GRANDVIEW -- This community is still waging its fight against gangs.

Activists plan simultaneous peace marches starting in Sunnyside and Grandview, and other community leaders have started long-term efforts to provide kids alternatives to gangs.

Some students have started a Grandview chapter of Barrios Unidos, a nonprofit group in Yakima that offers activities and social options for young people.

Also, Round 3 Boxing has established a club in Grandview. The nonprofit boxing league already has groups in Zillah and Granger, and is looking for a location in Toppenish. The club president, Hiram Cantu, said one boy from Grandview has been driving to Granger practices.

The group is sanctioned by USA Boxing and welcomes kids who have trouble with grades and discipline, Cantu said.

Neighborhood concerns about gang activity have inspired several people to take action. Families and community leaders were particularly spooked when a Friday night football game at Grandview High School was disrupted last month by a drive-by shooting across the street from the stadium. Hundreds of people were at the game, including young children.

Saturday's dual march is being called Communities Uniting for Peace and is aimed at fostering shared responsibility between Grandview and Sunnyside.

Participants will gather at 11:30 a.m. at Grandview Country Park and Fairgrounds and Sunnyside High School. They will begin walking at noon and reach Sunnyview Park, which is located midway between both towns on Wine Country Road, about 1 p.m.

The rally at Sunnyview Park will feature live bands, hot dogs and speakers, including mothers who have lost children to gang violence.

"We want to unite the two communities and get them to know each other better," said Brad Smith, president of Grandview United, the community nonprofit organizing the march.

Organizers are preparing for 1,000 people but are unsure of the expected turnout, Smith said.

School district officials from Sunnyside and Grandview, as well as the Grandview Police Department and Barrios Unidos Yakima Valley are helping stage the rally.

School and city officials from Prosser and Mabton have been invited, too, Smith said.