"We love you," said George W. Stewart, coordinator of Cover to Cover.

The event called I am your brothers- sisters keeper, touched nearly 100 kids and teenagers ranging in age from 5 to 18 years old. 

"They care and they want to give us a chance," said Shelby Wilson, an eight grader.

Wilson got the chance to be pampered and respected for a day.

"They think that just cause some children want to act crazy. They can't cope with anyone else. They just don't do stuff," said Wilson of the way adults normally treat her.

A Saturday shooting brought the number of Birmingham homicides to 62 this year.

Some of the shootings took place not too far from where the kids play.

"I'd be in the house playing video games because I don't like to be out in the street. It's dangerous," said MoaQuis Taylor, a sixth grader who stays inside to avoid the shootings.

Some of the kids say the know someone who was killed.

But Stewart wants them to embrace love, not hate.

"No one has stirred up their God-given potential, gifts and purpose, so they don't value life," said Stewart.

After a few hours of spa-like treatment, friends were made and lessons were learned.

"If you want to act like a clown, go ahead. But I'm not going to act like one with you," said Wilson.

There were several speakers at the event, including ABC 33/40's anchor Tracy Haynes. He gave an interactive presentation and spoke to kids about the power of TV.

Organizers say they are stepping up their efforts because of the increase in crime. There will be two more sessions in Birmingham this year.

Email To A Friend