In Danville, Illinois, the festive season often evokes family gatherings and cherished memories. However, on this night, local students chose to shine a light on those enduring hardship due to gun violence.

Teens involved with “Project Success” have felt the impact of such tragedies firsthand. This prompted them to create a poignant tribute, ensuring the memories of victims remain alive.

At the heart of this effort was a tree in Danville’s Douglas Discovery Garden. Families adorned it with photos and names of more than 100 individuals whose lives were tragically cut short. This heartfelt gesture also served as a powerful message.

“We recognize the immense difficulty families face when coping with loss during the holidays,” expressed Malia Roberson, a junior at Danville High School.

In response, Roberson and her fellow members of the Project Success Youth Council took steps to alleviate this pain. On Monday night, they dedicated a tree in the gardens to honor 109 shooting victims from the past five decades, embellishing it with their photos and names.

“It’s a shame that there are people who cannot be here with us today. Yeah. It’s very sad looking at all the photos, especially people that are so young.” said Roberson.

Including 18-year-old Aniyah Davis — who was shot in Danville last summer. Her family helped organize the event — including her father.

“If y’all ain’t paid attention, especially today, we. This is really a time that we all need to come together as a community.” said Aniyah’s father Phillip Davis.

He and several others shared their stories of loved ones, lost. And held a moment of silence with candles in honor of their memory.

“When we first organized the council, I was worried about, like, what the turnout would look like. And so I it makes me happy that people are willing to be out here during, you know, cold. We didn’t have school today, but I’m glad that people are out here and, showing up to honor these victims.” said Roberson.

She hopes it doesn’t stop here.

“We are out here, we are showing up and that we do care and that as a community we are together in this.” said Roberson.

Davis’s investigation is still ongoing. If you have any information, you can contact Danville Police or Vermilion County Crimestoppers— a reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest. We have that information here.