ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) - The sound of basketballs bouncing, children laughing, and families gathering filled a Roanoke neighborhood Saturday, but the day carried a deeper meaning.

The Hope Center hosted a community event in honor of Jakolbi Taylor , a 16-year-old Roanoke native who was shot and killed in Myrtle Beach last year. His death shocked the region, leaving family members and friends determined to turn their grief into purpose.

The event, held from 3 to 8 p.m., featured youth activities and community outreach tables from organizations offering counseling, mentoring, and violence prevention resources. Sponsors included the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the EnVision Center, the Excel Center for Higher Education, and the RESET Program.

Organizers say the goal was

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