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Community activist Ron Gee to be honored ahead of Back to School Summer Block Party on Indy's northeast side

Before they give back-to-school supplies to thousands of kids, family and friends will gather to honor community activist Ron Gee.

INDIANAPOLIS — On Saturday, July 20, family and friends will take time to honor community activist Ron Gee, who was shot and killed near 38th Street and Arlington Avenue on Thursday, July 18. 

Tributes to Gee have come in from fellow activists and leaders in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. 

On Saturday, he'll be remembered before the Back to School Summer Block Party at New Direction Church, located at 5330 E. 38th St. on the city's northeast side.

At 10:45 a.m., balloons will be released in Gee's honor. 

Then, they will give away 3,000 backpacks full of school supplies to kids heading back to school in coming weeks. 

According to New Direction Church, the party will span six blocks and feature bounce houses, food, music, free haircuts for kids and a special space for teens. 

TOMORROW— Is our Back to School Summer Block Party which will cover 6 city Blocks! 😱 From our property at 38th &...

Posted by New Direction Church on Friday, July 19, 2024

Gee's friend Dee Ross is also organizing a vigil and balloon release on Monday. 

On behalf of Ron Gee family we will be holding a Candlelight Vigil & Balloon release this Monday @ 7pm on 38th & Arlington. Bring candles and white balloons. Keep all negativity at home! #Share

Posted by Dee Ross on Friday, July 19, 2024

RELATED: Friends, fellow advocates remember slain Indianapolis community activist Ron Gee

Remembering Ron Gee

Ron Gee was a fierce community advocate and the founder of Cease Fire Indy.

In January 2024, 13News spoke with Gee, who created a new group focused on keeping his teens out of danger.

Credit: WTHR
1313 Eatery and Market is located at 4602 E. 10th St. in Indianapolis.

In November 2023, a fire destroyed 1313 Eatery, which Gee co-owned.

It was destroyed after being at East 10th Street and North Drexel Avenue for just a month.

RELATED: Teen son of community advocate creates group to tackle youth violence in Indianapolis

The eatery and market is known for its wings and tenderloins and for treating customers like family.

"They love chicken, and God used the chicken to bring people together! One man, who had six kids, always came in and always paid. One day he comes in and says, 'Hey, I don't have no money this time.' OK, I have food, though, so here you go! We are here for the people," Gee said.

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