Summer of Nonviolence Field Day Lights Up Los Altos Park
On a bright summer afternoon, the Albuquerque Community Safety Department transformed Los Altos Park into a hub of activity, inviting local children to swing bats, throw pitches, and share laughter under the open sky. The event, part of the department’s Summer of Nonviolence initiative, aims to keep youth engaged and connected through free, inclusive sports sessions.
Jeffery Bustamante, a community outreach manager with the department, highlighted the program’s mission to invest in the next generation, noting that “providing a safe space for kids to play helps steer them away from negative influences and builds confidence.” His words underscored the broader goal of using recreation as a preventive tool.
For Jackson Mangrum, a sophomore at Volcano Vista High School, the day marked a personal milestone. After years of honing his swing, he found himself not only playing but also being called a coach by younger participants, a moment he described as “surreal” and a testament to the program’s ripple effect.
Mariana Roybal, a varsity assistant softball coach at Valley High School, emphasized the program’s welcoming atmosphere, stating that it “opens its doors to everyone, from beginners picking up a bat for the first time to seasoned players looking to refine their skills.” Her inclusive approach reflects the department’s commitment to accessibility.
Beyond the diamonds, the field day sparked new friendships and a sense of belonging among attendees, reinforcing the department’s vision of a community where recreation serves as a bridge between generations. As the summer stretches ahead, organizers plan to expand the initiative, hoping to replicate its impact across neighborhoods.