Mobile Community Crisis Event Unit: A Novel Approach

In a distinctive effort to combat gun violence on the streets of Philadelphia, Michael “OG LAW” Ta’bon has pioneered a mobile community crisis event unit. This unconventional initiative aims to engage the youth and educate them about the perils of gun violence in a creative and impactful manner.

The Unique Setup: More Than Just a Casket

Ta’bon’s mobile unit features a casket and a jail-themed flatbed, strategically placed along Chelten Avenue in Germantown. The unconventional setup serves as a magnet for the attention of kids and teens, creating a platform for crucial discussions about the consequences of gun violence.

Equipped with various facilities, including surveillance, basketball nets, a stage, an audio studio, a dry-erase board, a t-shirt press, and a movie screen, the unit transforms into a multifunctional space. The intention is to provide a safe and conducive environment for learning, which Ta’bon aptly terms “sidewalk therapy.”

Sidewalk Therapy: Reaching the Youth Through Creativity

After 18 years of hands-on work in Philadelphia’s frontline neighborhoods, Ta’bon developed the concept of “sidewalk therapy” to captivate the attention of the youth. By offering a unique and engaging space, he encourages them to ask questions and participate actively in discussions about the critical issue of gun violence.

Terrell Elias, a resident of Germantown, expressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “The kids definitely need it, even the young adults. It’s a reality check.” Ta’bon, drawing on his personal experience of 15 years of incarceration, emphasizes the significance of staying on the right path to avoid the pitfalls of prison or, worse, becoming a victim of gun violence.

Transformative Outreach: From Incarceration to Community Service

Having spent 15 years behind bars, Ta’bon is now committed to giving back to the community. His violence prevention message is not only crucial but is also delivered with a touch of creativity. He urges young individuals to “stay in the straight and narrow” to achieve their dreams without succumbing to the harsh realities of incarceration or becoming a statistic in the rising gun violence rates.

Ta’bon, who spends nights in the unit, actively identifies problems and ensures that each child receives the necessary resources. This personalized approach allows him to address immediate needs and contribute to creating a better future for Philadelphia.

Future Plans: Citywide and Nationwide Impact

The mobile unit is not confined to a specific neighborhood; its goal is to traverse the entire city of Philadelphia and extend its outreach nationally. Ta’bon’s vision includes sharing his message and strategies for violence prevention with communities across the country, with the next stop being Kensington.

Transforming Lives: A Call to Action Against Gun Violence

Michael “OG LAW” Ta’bon’s mobile community crisis event unit represents an innovative and effective strategy to address the alarming issue of gun violence in Philadelphia. Through “sidewalk therapy” and creative engagement, he is making a tangible impact on the lives of the city’s youth, offering hope and resources for a safer and brighter future.