SANFORD, Fla. — In the wake of recent shootings involving teens, the Sanford community is determined to find solutions to the escalating violence.

In the spring, someone fatally shot a 17-year-old boy during a drug deal gone wrong and another shooting at Cabana Live left 10 people with non-life-threatening injuries. In that incident, a 16-year-old boy was arrested and charged, according to authorities.

That is why the community is stepping to address mental health in young lives.

Every Tuesday, Pernell Bush, the founder of No Limit Counseling and Education, gathers his team with a clear goal — promoting mental wellness in the community. Bush believes that addressing mental health is crucial, especially when young lives are impacted by violent crime.

“No matter if it’s one or a thousand people, we’re going to show up and be there to continue our outreach efforts as an organization,” said Bush.

Bush started No Limit Counseling and Education in 2014 to destigmatize mental illness and increase health awareness. In June of last year, he opened the first official location in downtown Sanford, marking a significant milestone in his mission to serve the community.

“Pay homage to my hometown and ensure that I’m here to do what I can as an organization, as an individual, as we grow this company. Knowing we’re here to serve not only Sanford but the Central Florida area, being home was important to me,” he said.

Bush collaborates with local leaders like Francis Oliver, a long-time educator and civil rights activist, to discuss and find solutions to the issues facing the community. Oliver emphasizes the importance of a collective approach involving law enforcement, the community, and parents.

“I believe you start with the home first, parents and then the home. And then from home, we got to work with the schools,” Oliver said.

Bush said that while parents should be accountable, community involvement is also crucial. He advocates for more adults to step up as mentors and coaches in young people’s lives, extending beyond sports.

“Things happen. It’s going to take time, but when we have more men in the community empowered to actually come out and engage these men outside of sports, because all kids aren’t into sports. We need other ways you can come in and be a coach in their life,” said Bush.

The Sanford Police Department is also contributing to the effort with its Youth Explorer Program, which provides young people the opportunity to learn ethical decision-making, leadership development, problem-solving skills, and community service through positive social interaction.