VCD Gun Safety Workshop Equips Saginaw Families with Lifesaving Skills and Resources
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, Victorious Community Development (VCD), in collaboration with the Houghton-Jones Neighborhood Association, launched the Safe Communities, Strong Families workshop series at the Christina Jones Resource Center, located at 1708 Johnson Street in Saginaw.
The first session, Understanding Gun Safety: Protecting Your Families, focused on essential firearm safety practices to prevent accidents and misuse. Led by City of Saginaw Officer Jordan Bady, the workshop provided attendees with hands-on guidance on proper firearm storage, safe handling techniques, and best practices for securing guns in homes with children.
Gun-related accidents remain a serious concern in communities across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional shootings account for hundreds of deaths and injuries annually, many involving children who find unsecured firearms. The workshop aimed to address this issue by emphasizing responsible ownership and firearm security.
One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of storing firearms unloaded and locked, with ammunition kept separately—a practice that significantly reduces the risk of accidental injury. Officer Bady also discussed the dangers of unauthorized access to firearms, particularly among young people, and how open conversations within families about gun safety can help prevent tragic incidents.
To reinforce the importance of these safety measures, participants received free gun locks, allowing them to immediately implement secure storage practices at home. The session also encouraged attendees to engage in community-wide safety initiatives, such as firearm safety training programs and partnerships with local law enforcement to increase awareness.
Beyond safety, the discussion touched on the legal responsibilities of gun ownership in Michigan, including safe storage laws, liability issues, and steps individuals should take if they find an unsecured or abandoned firearm in their community.
The workshop was well received, with attendees praising the hands-on approach and the opportunity to ask questions directly to a law enforcement officer. Many participants expressed appreciation for the free resources and practical advice that they could immediately apply to protect their families.
This workshop was just the first in an eight-week series designed to address pressing issues affecting families and communities. The next session, Recognizing the Signs: Preventing Violence Before It Starts, will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, and will focus on identifying early warning signs of conflict and proactive measures to prevent violence.
Click here to learn more about our upcoming workshops. To register, contact the Houghton-Jones Neighborhood Association at (989) 752-1660.
By fostering open discussions about safety, responsibility, and prevention, this initiative is taking meaningful steps toward building a stronger, more secure community in Saginaw.
