Posted on June 28, 2025

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Dozens of community members came together at the RiverPlex Recreation and Wellness Center for the 4th annual Don’t Start at the Park: Super Hero Edition.

It’s a local event aimed at encouraging young people to avoid destructive behaviors and embrace positive paths.

Sponsored by The Don’t Start Initiative, Stepping Forward Together and Positive Vibes Only, the event honored Peoria firefighters and school resource officers as everyday heroes.

Youth of all ages participated in basketball games, ping pong, and bags, teaming up with the first responders to foster connection and community. The firefighters and officers were also thanked for all they do.

Warith Muhammad, CEO of God’s Music Production and one of the event’s organizers, highlighted the core message:

“Don’t start with violent gangs. Don’t start with drug abuse,” he said. Don’t start with racism, bullying, any type of disruptive behavior that’s going to take them down a path that’s not going to lead to success.”

Live music from Joe Couri, Warith Muhammad and RJ Griffith featured uplifting songs focused on leadership and positivity. Motivational speakers and community vendors also offered resources and inspiration to attendees and their families.

Muhammad stressed the importance of reaching youth with “the right message.”

“We’ve got too many of our young folks dying and being killed today or being incarcerated when if we could have reached them with a different message, we could have definitely changed the narrative,” he said.

Organizers urge the community to continue supporting youth with positive messages and strong role models throughout the year.

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