YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Families gathered at Mill Creek Park on Sunday for the second annual community cookout hosted by The Persayus Way Project, a local nonprofit honoring young lives lost to gun violence.

The event was created in memory of 10-year-old Persayus Davis-May, who was shot and killed in her Youngstown home in 2021. Four years later, her killer has yet to be found—but her legacy continues to spark change.

“Our organization was started in her memory, but we now honor eight children who were taken by gun violence,” said Million Perry-Phifer, CEO of the Persayus Way Project. “Today is just about giving the kids something positive—a safe space, a good time, and some community support.”

The event featured free food for children, a youth basketball tournament, a splash pad, and local vendors offering everything from diploma completion programs to summer youth activities.

“Honestly, it’s for these children,” said event coordinator Lisette Encarnacion. “Our mission is these kids—to keep them busy, having fun, and knowing we’re here for them.”

Encarnacion said she was inspired to help launch the cookout idea last year in celebration of Persayus’s birthday. After a successful first year, the team decided to make it an annual tradition.

This year’s event also marked a growing commitment to community empowerment. Perry-Phifer shared that the organization is working to launch a beautification committee for the city.

“As a community organization, we want to give people a chance to share what they really want for their neighborhoods,” Perry-Phifer said. “It’s all going to take us together to keep going.”

Families at the cookout had access to a range of resources, including tutoring help, dance academy sign-ups, and information on after-school and summer programs.

The event was part remembrance, part outreach—but wholly rooted in the mission of creating a better future for Youngstown’s youth.

“With everything happening in our city, it’s important to remind these kids that they matter—and that we’re here for them,” Encarnacion added.

Anyone interested in getting involved with The Persayus Way Project or joining future events can reach the organization at 330-786-8347 or visit their social media pages.