Tree Street Youth, a Genesis community partner, is calling for a citywide, statewide, nationwide Love Lewiston Day this Friday, November 3 to honor the shooting victims and their families, thank first responders, and “personally care for ourselves by caring for the community we all LOVE.”

Organizers encourage all of us to spread love in our own ways or by participating in organized responses, including those Tree Street is hosting between 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at its youth development center at 144 Howe Street in Lewiston. You may participate for five minutes, an hour, or all day.

1. There will be bundles of Remembrance Ribbons ready for pick up at Tree Street Youth, in front of Longley School, at Bates College, and community businesses. (All Ages Activity.) The plan is to blanket the city of Lewiston with them, to honor the memory of those lost and show unity across the community. EVERYONE can help by tying the ribbons around telephone poles on your own street, outside your business, or anywhere you see an open pole!

2. Anyone can create their own Thank you Letter/Encouragement Card for first responders, victims families, or senior residents of Lewiston. All supplies (thanks to the ShareCenter) and space to create will be available at Tree Street or you can bring your own card. Tree Street will collect and deliver cards to recipients.

3. In partnership with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Maine, Tree Street Youth will host short trainings with community members who are ready to become Response Listeners. After receiving this training, individuals will move to frequently attended areas of Lewiston to encourage and listen to peers or use their new skills in the coming weeks across the community and beyond. (This is an 18+ opportunity.)

Tree Street Youth is an amazing organization, never more than now. Please visit Love Lewiston Day for more information.