Submitted photo Members of the Community Concerned Citizens II neighborhood group in Warren are planning different events and activities for the public. The group is also planning to recognize one of the group’s founders, Mary Ann Franklin, who turns 99 in April. From left are CCCII officers Cheryl Saffold, president; Cynthia Byrd, vice president; Clareice Johnson, secretary; Chawnelle Battle, treasurer; and Rosemary Herron, assistant secretary.

WARREN — The Community Concerned Citizens II neighborhood group in Warren said they are helping to make a difference in the city by hosting various events.

From Earth Day activities this weekend to a Juneteenth celebration this summer, the CCCII wants the public to come and join them.

Cheryl Saffold, CCCII president, said one of the cofounders, Mary Ann Franklin, is celebrating her 99th birthday this weekend.

“We were one of the first organizations to begin holding a Juneteenth celebration on June 19. Our organization is known for hosting the Juneteenth annually at Quinby Park,” Saffold said.

The CCCII was established in 2009 by Franklin and Eleanor Williams.

Corinne Williams, chairwoman of the Juneteenth celebration, said she plans to host some of the old style games from years ago such as tug-of-war and scavenger hunt.

Williams said she is reaching out to family members of Cory Stringer, the late football player, and others to help celebrate the day.

She said there also will be poster displays noting the accomplishments of the first black nurse in Warren, first black firefighter, first black council member, first black dentist and many others.

“We will have posters all over Quinby Park sharing the local history. Many of the young people may not even know the names,” Williams said.

Danny Houston said the CCCII has always hosted an Earth Day event to help clean up Quinby Park and surrounding areas. During Saturday’s cleanup, the group will celebrate Franklin’s 99th birthday.

“As a former councilwoman, I have already been acting as an adviser for this organization for the last 14 years. It was important to me to continue Mrs. Franklin’s vision and her legacy,” Saffold said.

Franklin served as the CCCII president for many years.

Houston said he became a member in 2002 and noted CCCII has lasted while other groups have not.

Eugene Dawson, 96, said he enjoys being part of the organization.

Saffold said Dawson has been a dedicated leader for many years.

The members said when the group started, it was Community Concerned Citizens with the goal of taking care of the local neighborhoods. Members would walk up and down streets clearing out street gutters and ditches.

The members said they like doing community service and helping the residents.

When the group went to get a 501(c)3 status, there was already another CCC in the state, so they added the Roman numeral II to the name.

Kevin Stringer, community engagement coordinator for Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership, said he loves that the members “put their boots to the ground” to get things done.

“This group is implementers. They don’t just talk. They go out and get things done,” Stringer said.

Saffold said another planned event is to bless the elderly at Tod’s Crossing.

She said CCCII has expanded its vision to serve all of Warren by enhancing the city with a renewed citywide vision.

Franklin, a Master Gardener, initially focused on the community garden located near Austin Avenue and York Street and Quinby Park. Under her guidance, members were permitted, by the city of Warren, to shepherd Quinby Park, which had been unkempt for years.

With the assistance of Saffold and community organizer DeAndre Bowers, a major overhaul of the park took place.

Saffold said the shelter house received a new roof, windows and inside renovations. There was new playground equipment installed and newer picnic tables. A surveillance camera was added as well.

Members cleaned the park on a weekly basis and hosted community events there.

Houston said, “CCCII brought Quinby Park back to life.”

He said in 2026, CCCII expanded its mission beyond its original roots. Saffold said she is now dedicated to partnering with neighborhood groups across Warren by assisting them in addressing various community concerns.

“This strategic shift signifies a broader commitment to fostering community resilience and collaboration throughout the city. As we continue the legacy of our founders and dedicated members, particularly Mary Ann Franklin, who has been a beacon of community service, our new focus is to support and empower all neighborhoods in Warren,” Saffold said.

Recently, the group celebrated Black History Month by honoring Warren’s first black firefighter, who is Saffold’s father.

Events being planned include Make A Difference Day in the fall promoting community service and engagement, and a Christmas celebration that includes gifts for the elderly.

CCCII meetings are at 5:30 p.m. on the first Monday of the month at the Warren Library, and all interested community members are invited to attend.