One of the aims of the Holyoke Youth Commission is to advocate for other youth in the community. They do this by speaking to their peers about issues and problems they face and bringing these issues to city leaders. After interviewing youth in after-school programs located in the Flats and South Holyoke, it became clear that saftey was a major concern of youth living in these areas. On July 14th, the Youth Commission took action by inviting Mayor Elaine Pluta, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Holyoke Police, and youth to speak about ways to best address violence and open drug use in these areas. Out of the meeting, came several proactive solutions including the residents taking part in the Text-A-Tip program where residents can anonymously text their local police when crime is happening or to give information about a crime that has taken place (SOLVE 274 637). Also, participants of the meeting are going to take part in the Neighborhood Watch meetings that take place in Wards 1 and 2. The follow up meeting will be taking place at the next Neighborhood Watch in Ward 1. Check out the story online on MassLive.com