City Advisor Victor Saunders has passed away

Mayor Malik Evans announced the Friday morning passing of City official Victor Saunders. Evans' press release stated, "Today, my colleagues and I are mourning the loss of one of my closest advisors, a member of the City’s Senior Management team, and our friend Victor Saunders."

Victor Saunders

Community members remember Saunders as a remarkable individual whose unwavering commitment to the youth of Rochester and the fight against violence has left an indelible mark on our community. As the Advisor to Mayor Malik Evans on Violence Prevention Programs, Victor was not just a title; he was a living embodiment of hope, resilience, and transformative change.

His journey was a tapestry woven with thirty years of experience dedicated to those often overlooked and marginalized. He was handpicked by Mayor Evans, a testament to his profound impact and the trust placed in him to direct all Violence Intervention efforts for our city. His role was not merely a job; it was a calling—a commitment to uplift and empower those at high risk of behavioral issues, violence, and gang involvement.

As the former Supervisor of Youth Intervention Specialists for the Pathways to Peace Youth Initiative, Saunders was a guiding light for countless young people. His leadership spanned eight out of the sixteen years of service, during which he crafted and implemented programs that served as lifelines for youth navigating turbulent waters. He understood that behind every statistic was a story, a potential waiting to be realized.

Saunders' expertise extended beyond local borders. He collaborated with esteemed scholars such as Dr. John Klofas and Dr. David Kennedy, integrating nationally recognized best practices into his work. He was a pioneer, not just in theory but in practice, actively shaping strategies that fostered safe and nurturing environments for youth. His establishment of VTS Specialists in 2009 was a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge and empowerment, ensuring that those who worked with at-risk youth could thrive, learn, and grow together.

His objectives were clear and noble: to share a wealth of experience and practical knowledge in youth intervention, street outreach, and gang prevention. Saunders believed in the power of collaboration, understanding that it is through shared knowledge and collective action that we can change negative outcomes into positive futures. He was not just a leader; he was a mentor, a teacher, and a friend to many.

Saunders' legacy is profound empathy, relentless dedication, and transformative influence. He approached every challenge with creativity, seeking not just to intervene but to inspire change on a systemic level. His vision was a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, had the opportunity to thrive—a world where violence was not an inevitability but a challenge that could be overcome.

As we remember Saunders today, let us not only mourn the loss of a visionary leader but also celebrate his vibrant life and the profound impact he had on our community. Let us carry forward his legacy by continuing the critical work he championed—the work of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our youth.

In honor of Victor Saunders, let us strive to be the change-makers he believed we could be. Let us collaborate, share knowledge, and uplift one another as we work towards a safer, more compassionate community for all. His spirit will continue to guide us as we forge ahead, inspired by his example and dedicated to realizing the vision he advocated.

Thank you, Victor, for your service, wisdom, and heart. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.