The idea that brought scores of East Palo Altans to Bell Street Park Saturday was written on the T-shirts many wore to the event: Unity. Members of the local Born Again Christian center organized the event from noon to 5 p.m. as a show of dedication to ending violence in the area.

"It was all about love and togetherness and community," said congregation member Doris Taylor. "We wanted to get the youngsters in and focus on their talents."

The celebration featured hip hop music and performances by neighborhood youth along with food and a bounce house for the children.

All age groups were represented at the park, highlighting the event's inter-generational message. "It's all about the babies, about the future," Taylor said.