Gainesville events raise awareness about gun violence
Published on May 22, 2026
Gainesville will join communities across the nation to raise awareness about gun violence, amplify the voices of survivors and build community as part of Gun Violence Awareness Month in June. The events are free and open to the public.
When: Saturday, May 30 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: Squirrel Ridge Park, 1603 SW Williston Road
In partnership with Alachua County Community Support Services, the Alachua County Crisis Center, the Community Gun Violence Prevention Alliance and fellow community partners, the memorial event will offer opportunities for reflection, remembrance and healing.
Gun Violence Awareness Day Proclamation
When: Thursday, June 4, 5:30 p.m.
Where: City Hall Auditorium, 200 E. University Ave.
At the beginning of the evening session of the June 4 city commission meeting, Mayor Ward and the Gainesville City Commission will designate Friday, June 5 as Gun Violence Awareness Day in Gainesville to honor the lives of gun violence victims and survivors.
Summer Safety
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2-5 p.m.
Where: Lincoln Park, 900 SE 15th St.
IMPACT GNV and safety responders from the Gainesville Police Department, Gainesville Fire Rescue and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office present a summer safety event focused on gun violence prevention and community safety tips. Free food, fun, and activities for the entire family.
When: Friday, June 26, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: Catalyst Building, 606 SE Depot Ave.
This event will include a crisis intervention and de-escalation training led by the Alachua County Crisis Center, focusing on crisis identification, intervention principles and de-escalation techniques. Participants will engage in a hands-on session conducted by UF Health to learn essential techniques for controlling life-threatening bleeding. Lastly, Gainesville Fire Rescue will cover opioid overdose recognition and the proper administration of Narcan to reverse overdose.
- Wednesday, June 3 from 7-9 p.m.: Nest and Nibble Cafe, 14 SW First Ave.
- Wednesday, June 10 from 7-9 p.m.: Released Reentry, 4104 NW 13th St.
- Youth Night, Wednesday, June 17 from 7-9 p.m.: Depot Park, 874 SE Fourth St.
IMPACT GNV invites everyone to wear orange!
- Wednesday, June 24 from 7-9 p.m.: Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave.