Ron Barber’s family created the Fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding while he was recovering in the ICU. The mission of the fund is to sustain and build upon the outpouring of good will, compassion and kindness that the community responded with after the tragic event in Tucson on Jan. 8, 2011. Barber, district director for Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, was shot twice and is healing and on the road to recovery.

When Ron Barber and his family created the Fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding, they wanted to tackle the issue of bullying. In August 2011, the volunteer Anti-Bullying Task Force began meeting monthly to discuss how to address bullying in our schools and in the workplace.  Its members include educators from local school districts, leaders from social service agencies, physicians and community volunteers.

The Task Force created several subcommittees with the following goals:  create the EndOfBullying.com website; focus on anti-bullying programs in schools; launch a Public Service Announcement competition for youth; and reach out to pediatricians so they could ask children if they feel safe at school and provide those who don’t with anti-bullying resources.

Reflections Video: 

Speakers spoke about the lives of the 6 people who died on January 8, the survivors and the citizen heroes who came to their aid following the shootings

The second Concert for Civility benefiting the Fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding was an incredible success.  The sold out show brought our community together to remember, heal and grow from the experiences of the January 8th shootings.  With a spotlight on the Funds current efforts, music therapy, unity and incredible local and national musicians. The Fox Theatre housed an extraordinary night. The Fund is extremely grateful to all who contributed to and attended the show.

Photos Coming Soon