A Memphis gang member is setting out to change other people’s lives by reaching out to other gang members to say “Put Down The Guns!”
Frank Gotti (Frank Gottie) joined a gang when he was just 15 years-old and told WREG that he’s lost more than 30 close friends to gun violence, some of them even before they were the age of eighteen (18).
Gotti says “it’s time for somebody to step up” and he’s doing just that on Facebook and on the streets.
Frank Gotti created a Facebook group which has now garnered almost 1,000 members to promote his anti-gun campaign.
In the streets, Gotti goes from door to door to talk to younger gang members and lets them know that killing each other is not the answer.
Frank Gotti, who was shot six times himself after trying to break up a fight more than five years ago, says gang violence has destroyed families and he’s had enough.
Referring to gangs as ‘big families’ themselves, Frank Gotti says the young gang members are likely to listen to him and learn from his mistakes. He says he’s on the path of changing their lives even if it’s just one person who’s life he is changing. Frank Gotti even extends offers of a ride for gang members who need to get to work, church or school.
Meanwhile, personally, Frank Gotti talks about being a father to his kids who he wants to look up to him as a dad and not as an O.G.
Working with New Life Church, Frank Gotti is preparing to reach out to Memphis Police who released a statement saying anything making an effort to help juveniles from injuring themselves and others, is a good thing.
Hello Mr. Gotti, How are you? I am very impressed with the work that you’re doing and welcome the opportunity to learn and possibly assist. I just moved back to Memphis from California would like to speak with you further.
Tia Christian
OC Naacp
Email: tchrstn4@gmail.com