Columbus nonprofits steer youth away from street racing, focus on education and training

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Two Columbus community groups are now working together to put the brakes on illegal street takeovers in Central Ohio.

“These things have been going on for quite some time; I think it’s something Ohio is now being privy to,” said Keywan Lawson, founder of Lead, Mentor & Grow, a motorsports non-profit that focuses on youth mental health and helps teens bring their passion for off-road motorsports to a new level.

“These are the things that we are teaching our kids,” said Lawson. “Not just how science works in the classroom, but real-life experiences.”

The partnership comes as cities across Ohio are seeing a spike in illegal street racing.

“A couple of weeks ago, some kids stole a car and was racing it up and down the street,” said Folami Moon with End The Violence. “A kid almost got hit.”

Nearly 200 people, including 46 juveniles, were charged by Columbus Police after an alleged street takeover last month near John Glenn International Airport.

“We are very concerned about those illegal gatherings,” said Maria Stokes with End The Violence. “They are a hotbed for other activities.”

“Lead, Mentor & Grow “and “End The Violence” are now working together to get young adults and teens to steer clear of street racing and focus on education and hands-on training.

“How do we do that?” said Moon. “By being there, being in conversations.”

“The folks that are putting together these illegal gatherings are influencers,” said Stokes. “And they are influencing folks to do it the wrong way.”

The two groups now hope their influence will help put the brakes on dangerous driving.

“Putting lives at risk, getting folks involved with law enforcement,” said Lawson, “it’s only going to bring more destruction and mayhem in the streets, and we don’t need that.”