The Maverick Boys and Girls Club in Amarillo held Friday "Teen Nights" during the summer, which drew hundreds of local teenagers. The club designed the program with organized activities for different interests and community volunteers, as a way to offer young people a place away from gun violence. Attendees said the events give them something to do during hours when shootings often happen. One teen said the program keeps teens off the streets. Parents also feel reassured, according to attendees. Due to demand, Teen Night expanded from one evening to two per week. Peak attendance reached more than 400 teenagers in a single night, according to the club. A club representative said the public can support the organization so it can do more.
A friend of Brynnlee Hampton, 15, who died on Jan. 1, said teenagers should not have guns on a regular basis. Other attendees said peer conflicts and parties often turn violent.