In 2013, tragedy struck the close-knit community of Wyckoff Gardens, Brooklyn, after a violent incident involving neighborhood resident and up-and-coming rapper Kenneth “Nu Money” Casilla. Kenneth was sitting in his car in a Miami parking lot when he was shot and killed shortly after relocating to join the hip-hop group Rich Mafia. The mother of the 20-year-old victim, Yvette Ramos, has since become an influential voice against gun violence within the community. Ramos helps to create awareness for an issue that increasingly impacts Black Americans living in New York City by engaging in activations and speaking at local events. Ramos’ efforts to re-name the corner of Third Avenue and Baltic St. in Wyckoff Gardens to “Kenneth Casilla Way” continually remind the community of a young life cut short due to firearms. Yvette enlisted the support of SNIPES SERVES to revisit this street corner for a gun violence awareness event that the neighborhood wouldn’t soon forget. More information on Wyckoff Gardens can be found in our earlier SNIPES SERVES blog post, but it was easy to see the closeness of the community at this educational block party experience.




While the DJ was spinnFriends and neighbors gathered on July 30th to pay tribute to Kenneth Casilla and learn about a major issue facing their community today. As Wyckoff residents were enjoying the free food and activities, including face painting and a big bouncy house, Yvette Ramos spoke to the crowd about her experience while wearing a t-shirt featuring her late son. Also speaking at the event were Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and New York State Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon to highlight the importance of gun violence awareness and prevention in the district. Although shooting incidents and firearm injuries have declined in Brooklyn since 2020, there is still a lot one can do to help prevent firearm injuries in urban areas. Organizations like Not Another Child and the Melquain Jatelle Anderson Foundation continue to fight against gun violence with education and empowerment geared towards younger individuals. No mother should have to endure the lifetime pain of losing a child. If there is a chance for change, communities must come together to help prevent these senseless incidents and tragedies, so families can live without worry and continue enjoying local block parties. For the latest news and sneaker/streetwear releases, follow us on our Instagram read up on our blog posts, and download the mobile app to stay up to date on everything SNIPES.



