Life Camp

Our youth have the unique potential to rewrite the narrative of gun violence.

Turning away from destructive decisions and forging a path away from gun violence is the main focus of Urban Alliance’s Life Camp offerings.

Summer Camps

These summer camps empower youth to be the voice of change and rally against decisions that can lead them and their peers to injury, incarceration, and death.

Community Collaboration

Urban Alliance collaborates with a number of organizations to provide attendees with the tools, resources, and perspectives needed to step outside the cycles of gun violence within Kalamazoo.

Community Rally

Each year’s event includes a community rally for all ages. Youth are invited to participate in contests including speeches, rap battles, and poster creation to creatively express their feelings regarding group violence within Kalamazoo and advocate for peace.

Human Dignity

Rather than admonishing perpetrators, Urban Alliance and its partners advocate for human dignity including a “Dear Shooter” exercise in which participants write letters of compassion to those who have or consider turning to gun violence. By allowing youth to see those making or wrestling with destructive decisions, they see their role and power to upend the gun violence cycle.

Confidence-building Activities

Other activities include target practice and Nerf gun or paintball fights to demonstrate safe and acceptable gun and weapon use. Team- and confidence-building activities help participants see their own and collective value, while an ultimate treasure hunt reminds the youth how much fun can be had while making life-affirming, safe decisions.

Two-day Event

In 2024, Life Camp became a two-day event. It began on Friday at Urban Alliance with an evening of celebration for family, friends, and community partners. Camp festivities were held on Saturday at Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center with transportation and all meals provided.

Watch for 2025 Life Camp details!