Santa Cruz, 20 March 2011 - The Jessika Borda Foundation - Aid to Victims of Crime (fujebo.org) held its annual "No Violence Day" today in Santa Cruz to highlight the need for further action to prevent violent crime and educate the public regarding the resources available to victims.

The Jessika Borda Foundation was founded in January 2004 by Rhea Borda, an American citizen living in Santa Cruz whose daughter's life was taken during a carjacking in 2003. Over the past 7 years the Jessika Borda Foundation has grown to include psychological, medical, legal and financial help for victims of crime. In addition, the foundation develops crime prevention and education programs and projects and holds events, such as "Santa Cruz No Violence Day".

Representatives of several city and state institutions participated in this event along with members of the public, all of whom wore white to symbolize peace. The event took place at the "Plaza del Estudiante" near the public library, and across the street from the Santa Cruz district court house from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Members of the press covered the event.

The Santa Cruz State Government's Public Safety Office signed an agreement with the Jessika Borda Foundation to provide funds for specific projects aimed at educating the public over the coming year. Representatives from the Santa Cruz municipal government and the Santa Cruz civic committee were also present to pledge their support.

The public was entertained by a band playing typical local music and the "Camba Aguilillo" who recited poetry in the traditional "cruceño" story-telling fashion, with an emphasis on crime prevention and a call for the public to take ownership of the problem and assist with crime prevention. One of his poems was written specifically for this event.

Santa Cruz is the fastest growing city in South America at this time.

The city's rapid growth and development are accompanied by a measurable increase in violent crime rates. The Jessika Borda Foundation and its local, national and international partners and supporters encourage the public to take a stand against violent crime, report crimes that are committed, and participate more actively in helping to keep crime rates down. At this time the foundation is seeking international partners to help provide funding for crime prevention and education projects in Bolivia and also has several volunteer opportunities available. Read more about the Jessika Borda Foundation and how you can help, here.