The Revert Community Coalition Center Inc. of Warren County will host an all-day block party Dec. 20. The event will feature music, food,

If you go

The Revert Community Coalition Center Inc. of Warren County’s block party will be from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 20 on Martha Street, just off Harrison Street. The free event will feature music, food, games, competitions and speakers.

games, competitions and speakers, including representatives from the Jackson branch of the Guardian Angels, a group that helps law enforcement clean up the streets, Revert sponsor Tony McElroy said.

“There are a lot of children around here, not just in our neighborhood, but all over, that are being deprived of a lot of opportunities,” said McElroy. “A lot of the children we deal with are coming out of the alternative school and nobody wants to deal with them. We take them and we help build their character and teach them skills that will enable them to make money.

“We teach them how to paint, how to landscape and how to do carpentry,” he said. “And they get paid to learn those skills. We’re helping them develop character and skills so they can change their future.”

The coalition has been meeting for about six months, but the block party will serve as an introduction of the group to the neighborhood, McElroy said.

“We just want them to come out and have a good time and know that we know where they’re coming from,” he said. “Where I come from is where these children are today. That’s why I can identify because I’ve been there but I overcame it with my hands up to the Lord.”

The event will take place on Martha Street, just off Harrison Street, and will kick off at 11 a.m. and last until 6 p.m. Financial contributions for the event, as well as the donation of goods or volunteer services will be appreciated, organizers said.

Revert works with Beyond Walls ministry, is an effort started by Ernie Hall, the Warren County Jail chaplain, McElroy said.

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Contact Megan Holland at mholland@vicksburgpost.com.