07/18/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Devon Joyner, Executive Director
Old King’s Orchard Community Center
815 N. Church St., Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 428-2782 | [email protected]
https://okocommunitycenter.org
Statement from OKO Board Chair Chris Ellis Following Targeted Shooting of
Youth Program Participant
Decatur, IL – July 17, 2025 – Old King’s Orchard Community Center (OKO) is heartbroken to confirm that one of our youth, a participant in the OKO Green program, was the victim of a targeted shooting earlier today. While we are grateful that the injuries are not life threatening, the emotional toll is deep and real, felt throughout our staff, our youth, and our community.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, our thoughts and prayers are with the young person and their family as they begin the difficult road to healing. We also stand with and support our dedicated staff, individuals who show up every day to do courageous, transformational work on the frontlines of our city.
This was a targeted act of violence.
And it happened to a young person who believed in what we are building at OKO. Creating a place of hope, structure, opportunity, and belonging. That truth alone should give us all pause. It should compel every one of us to reflect on the current state of our community.
But let us be clear: This will not break us.
For years, OKO has been a place where staff, volunteers, and neighbors have poured their time, love, and energy into creating something better for our youth. We have done this work because we believe in our young people and their future. Because we know they deserve better. And because we refuse to accept that violence is the only path forward.
This tragedy is not just a moment of heartbreak, it is a reminder of what is at stake. And it is a call to action. It affirms, more than ever, why OKO exists.
It is precisely because of violence like this that OKO’s mission is so urgent.
Our programs, from job readiness and mentorship to education and life skills, exist to offer a different path. A better path. A future where our youth feel safe, supported, and seen.
To our neighbors, leaders, partners, and all who care about the future of Decatur:
We need you... Our youth need you... Your support! Your presence! Your belief!
We ask you to stand with us, and to refuse to give up. To help us build something stronger than fear, and to turn heartbreak into resolve.
Let this be a defining moment. Not remembered for tragedy, but for transformation.
For all media inquiries or requests for comment, please contact Devon Joyner, Executive Director, at [email protected] or (217) 428-2782.
