JAG Promises Founder Hosts Stop the Violence Weekend

The annual Stop the Violence Weekend, organized by JAG Promises, returns this year with several impactful events designed to raise awareness about gun violence and support grieving families in our community.

Founded by Rochelle Johnson after the tragic loss of her son Keith in 2022, JAG Promises initially created the nonprofit to reunite mothers who had experienced similar losses. What began as weekly Wednesday meetings has evolved into a significant community movement that includes multiple events throughout the year, with the Stop the Violence Weekend being the cornerstone initiative.

"I started JAG Promises because my son Keith was shot and killed in 2022," Johnson explained. "Most people don't think of the issue of gun violence or how big of a problem it is until it happens to them. That was me, and it happened to me." The organization's early focus was creating a support network for grieving mothers, providing them with a safe space to share their experiences and heal together.

The Stop the Violence Weekend has grown considerably since its inception. The first year featured a parade that brought visibility to the cause. By the second year, a basketball game was added to the lineup. This year's event introduces the "Grieve and Paint" session, offering participants a therapeutic creative outlet to process their emotions.

The parade remains a powerful component of the weekend. "It allows people to see the grieving mothers up close," Johnson shared. Participants walk while holding pictures of their loved ones lost to violence, creating a visual representation of the human cost of gun violence in our community. The emotional impact of seeing these families supported by their community makes the parade particularly moving for both participants and observers.

“It’s more than just an event—it’s healing,” said Angela Moore, a Columbus resident “The first time I saw the parade, I cried. You see those faces on the posters, and you realize—this is happening to our neighbors, our families. It makes it real.”

This year's Grieve and Paint event provides a structured environment for emotional expression through art. Attendees will have the opportunity to channel their grief into creative works while being surrounded by others who understand their journey. The therapeutic benefits of artistic expression combined with community support make this a valuable addition to the weekend's activities.

The basketball game, now in its second year, brings a more celebratory element to the weekend while still honoring those lost. Many participants wear custom t-shirts featuring images of their loved ones, ensuring their memories remain present during the event.

Another highlight of the weekend is the Love, Laughter, Legacy Tailgate & Benefit Concert. This event features performances, dance teams, barbecuing, and decorated tents that create a festive atmosphere that celebrates the lives and legacies of those lost to violence.

“It shows how much we cared about the person we lost,” Johnson said. “And it reminds us that their life had meaning. We celebrate them.”

Organizing such a comprehensive weekend of events comes with significant challenges. Johnson noted the difficulty of coordinating everything without substantial financial backing and sponsorships. However, a dedicated community committee has been instrumental in bringing the vision to life. Committee members, many of whom are mothers who have lost children, often experience heightened emotions as the event approaches, as it brings memories of their children to the surface.

When asked about her motivation to continue this work despite the emotional toll, Johnson expressed that she believes she is making Keith proud. Her long-term vision extends beyond the annual weekend events—she hopes to increase awareness about gun violence, involve more community members in prevention efforts and ultimately spare other families from experiencing similar pain. She is also working on a book to share her experiences and insights.

For families affected by gun violence in Columbus, Johnson's message is clear: every child's life should be valued and protected. Through JAG Promises and the Stop the Violence Weekend, she aims to ensure that the community understands the devastating impact of gun violence and works collectively toward prevention.

Those interested in learning more about JAG Promises or volunteering for upcoming events can visit JAGPromise.com for additional information.