With no parks or recreation centers in the area, law enforcement officials are concerned that children living in the Hot Springs Road and Northgate Lane area could turn to breaking the law.
"It's an area that's known for criminal gang activity," said District Attorney Neil Rombardo. "Studies show that if you can provide children the opportunity to grow both physically and mentally, it decreases the likelihood of becoming a criminal down the road."
He's hoping a new mobile recreation unit will provide children in that area the opportunities they need to avoid gangs and other unlawful behavior.
The 18-foot trailer, to be unveiled today, will visit the parking lot of the Victory Christian Center twice weekly. The program will offer sports competitions, such as basketball and soccer, board games, crafts, computers and other activities.
The idea was developed through the Gang Response Intervention Prevention and Suppression Committee, part of the district attorney's office and working in conjunction with the Quality of Life Committee and the Carson City Chamber of Commerce.
Partnership Carson City provided the initial funding, and the Boys and Girls Club of Western Nevada will operate the unit.
Pastor George Wendell of the Victory Christian Center donated an acre of the center's property for the project.
Rombardo said Wendell's involvement will be instrumental in forming a bridge to the community.
"With Pastor Wendell on board, it's just the perfect fit," he said. "Part of our prevention is to reach out to young kids who may be turning to gangs. This gives us an opportunity to let them know the community cares about them."
From 3-6 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the school year and summer, the recreational unit will be open to children of all ages. Snacks will be served.
The sheriff's department will provide volunteer crossing guards for the first few weeks.
WHAT: Presentation of Mobile Recreation Program
WHEN: 2 p.m. today
WHERE: Victory Christian Center, 300 Hot Springs Road
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