July 28, 2008

Our hearts go out to partner organization and neighbor Project Hip Hop (PHH), who has recently lost a member of their youth group. In moments like these, the youth violence epidemic touches us all personally. REEP continues the campaign against youth violence with PHH in coalition with the United Youth and Youth Workers of Boston. Kelvin Lara, you will be remembered.

Kelvin Patricio Lara
May 16, 1990 - July 12, 2008

By Carmen Ruiz

Kelvin was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts and lived on Blue Hill Avenue for most of his life. Kelvin had a great passion for his opinions and the values he believed in. With his charming personality and great sense of humor, Kelvin touched the lives of those who were fortunate enough to be around him.

During his high school years Kelvin gained much popularity. With his good looks and good heart he gained the love of his girlfriend Soukaina. Many late nights he would play his love songs and think about her. Kelvin would always sit outside or ride bikes with Angel and their friends talking and laughing about life. Johnny, Jamerson, and Kelvin would stay up late playing videogames, and arguments would always come up about music and sports. Showcasing his enthusiasm for the home teams, Kelvin predicted championships for both the Celtics and Red Sox when others around him doubted. And if Kelvin wasn't hanging outside with his friends, playing NFL Madden, or spending time with his girlfriend, he would play with and help take care with his nieces Alexia and Liliana, and also visit various family members.

Despite some minor troubles Kelvin may have had, he always had a set goal in mind. "Johnny, I want to walk across that stage and get my diploma." Kelvin figured that getting a GED would be the easy way out, so he then chose to continue high school. "I know I'm messing up right now, I know I'm going to get it right. I know." Kelvin always wanted this and he wanted to work to take care of this family and his girlfriend Soukaina. This is the Kelvin that we all knew, and adored. We will never forget your face and your will to love.

Kelvin Patricio Lara is survived by parents Jose Lara and Carmen Ruiz; grandparent Dulce Lara; sisters Rosa Lara, Indira Lara, Pearla Lara, and Indira Lara; brothers Alfredo Gauzman, Johnny Ruiz, Marcos Ruiz, Jose Baez, Patricio Lara; nieces and nephews Alexia Ruiz, Xavier Lara, and Liliana Ruiz; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; friends Xenakis, Jamerson, Aaron, and Adam; and girlfriend Soukaina.