Victor Saunders, a prominent leader in Rochester’s fight against violence, has passed away, leaving behind an indelible mark on the city he loved and served for many years. Known for his tireless efforts to reduce violence and promote peace, Saunders was a transformative figure in Rochester’s community, particularly in initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violence, such as poverty, trauma, and lack of opportunity. His death marks a significant loss for the community, his colleagues, and the city’s ongoing efforts to heal from its challenges.

A Key Figure in Rochester’s Violence Prevention Efforts

Victor Saunders’ legacy is deeply intertwined with the history of violence prevention in Rochester. A respected figure, he was instrumental in shaping the city’s approach to reducing violence, focusing on innovative, community-driven strategies. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Office of Violence Prevention, which works to address the root causes of violence while fostering a culture of peace and healing within the community. Under Saunders’ guidance, this office became a central part of Rochester’s approach to tackling violence, with a focus on long-term solutions that went beyond mere law enforcement.

One of Saunders’ most significant contributions was his leadership of the Pathways to Peace Program. This initiative, which offers alternatives to violence for young people, was expanded under his guidance, reaching more individuals and providing them with the tools they needed to resolve conflicts peacefully. Pathways to Peace not only helped young people avoid violent paths but also worked to create a shift in the mindset of the city, encouraging a culture of non-violence and conflict resolution. By working closely with schools, community organizations, and local leaders, Saunders ensured that the program had a lasting impact, providing a tangible solution to one of the city’s most persistent problems: youth violence.

The Creation of the Rochester Peace Collective

In addition to Pathways to Peace, Saunders also played a leading role in the creation of the Rochester Peace Collective, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing emotional and community support for individuals and families who have been affected by violence. The Peace Collective offered grieving families a space to process their trauma and heal from the deep wounds left by the loss of loved ones to violence. Through counseling, support groups, and community resources, the collective helped individuals rebuild their lives, offering not just sympathy but tangible help in the aftermath of tragedy.

Saunders’ involvement with the Peace Collective reflected his commitment to not just preventing violence, but also helping those impacted by it heal. His deep understanding of the emotional and psychological toll that violence takes on individuals and families led him to ensure that these resources were available and accessible to those who needed them most. Saunders’ leadership in this area helped create a model for how cities can address the aftermath of violence, focusing not only on preventing future violence but also on mending the wounds of the past.

Personal Tributes and Reflections

When news of Saunders’ passing broke, tributes poured in from all corners of Rochester. Mayor Malik Evans, who knew Saunders as both a trusted advisor and close personal friend, was among the first to publicly mourn the loss. In a statement, Evans reflected on Saunders’ unwavering commitment to the city, highlighting his deep passion for peace and justice. The mayor quoted a well-known hymn to describe Saunders’ legacy: “May the Works I’ve Done Speak for Me.” Evans emphasized that Saunders had truly lived by these words, dedicating his life to the betterment of his community and always striving to make a difference through his actions rather than words.

Evans went on to praise Saunders’ integrity, describing him as a man who led with wisdom, humility, and compassion. “Victor has done great works,” Evans said, “and his contributions to this city will continue to live on in the work we do to make Rochester a safer, more compassionate place.”

Saunders’ colleagues and peers also paid tribute to his leadership style. Many described him as a deeply compassionate person who was not only an effective leader but also a mentor and friend. Those who worked with him often recalled his ability to connect with people on a personal level, listening to their concerns, and offering guidance. He was known for his hands-on approach, frequently engaging with the community and being present at events, not just as a figurehead, but as an active participant in the effort to improve the city.

Saunders’ Holistic Approach to Violence Prevention

Under Saunders’ leadership, Rochester adopted a more holistic approach to violence prevention. Rather than relying solely on traditional law enforcement tactics, Saunders advocated for addressing the root causes of violence. He recognized that issues such as poverty, lack of education, and generational trauma were key factors contributing to the cycle of violence in the city. By focusing on these underlying issues, Saunders worked to create long-term, sustainable solutions that would help break the cycle of violence and provide individuals with the tools they needed to build better futures.

His work emphasized the importance of community empowerment, believing that true change could only come when communities were actively engaged in the process. This was reflected in the wide range of programs and initiatives he helped establish, which sought to build stronger, more resilient communities. From youth mentoring programs to initiatives focused on job training and educational support, Saunders worked to create opportunities for individuals to thrive, thereby reducing the likelihood of violence.

The Impact of Saunders’ Work on Rochester

As Rochester continues to face the challenges of gun violence and social inequity, Saunders’ work remains a powerful testament to the difference one individual can make. His efforts helped shift the city’s mindset toward a more compassionate, preventative approach to violence. Today, the programs Saunders helped build continue to have a lasting impact on the community. The Pathways to Peace program remains one of the most important initiatives in the city’s violence prevention strategy, and the Rochester Peace Collective continues to offer support to those affected by violence.

The long-term impact of Saunders’ work is also reflected in the relationships he built with community members. He was not just a leader in the government; he was a true member of the Rochester community. Many of those who knew him personally shared stories of how Saunders had touched their lives, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or his unwavering support during difficult times. His leadership inspired countless individuals to become more involved in their community, and his legacy continues to motivate those who carry forward the work he began.

A City in Mourning and the Call for Continuation

In the wake of Saunders’ passing, Rochester finds itself at a crossroads. The city has lost a leader who was committed to making it a better place, but his death has also sparked a renewed commitment to carry forward his mission. As tributes continue to pour in from across the city, the community is being reminded that the work Saunders started is far from over. The Pathways to Peace program, the Rochester Peace Collective, and other initiatives he helped establish must continue to thrive, not just in his memory, but as part of the ongoing effort to create a more peaceful and just society.

Many in Rochester are also reflecting on the broader implications of Saunders’ work. His focus on holistic, community-driven violence prevention has become a model for other cities grappling with similar challenges. By prioritizing prevention over punishment and focusing on healing and empowerment, Saunders’ approach has shown that lasting change is possible — even in the face of immense challenges.

Moving Forward: Carrying Saunders’ Legacy

As the city mourns the loss of a visionary leader, it is also called to action. Victor Saunders’ death has underscored the importance of his work, but it has also highlighted the need for continued efforts in the fight against violence. In the years to come, Rochester’s leaders and residents will have to work even harder to ensure that the programs Saunders helped build continue to grow and evolve.

The memory of Saunders’ work will live on in the hearts of those who were touched by his leadership. His vision for a safer, more compassionate Rochester will continue to inspire future generations of leaders, advocates, and community members. Though he is gone, his legacy — one of peace, service, and unwavering commitment to others — will remain a guiding light for the city he helped transform.

In remembering Victor Saunders, the city of Rochester not only honors the man who made it a better place but also rededicates itself to the cause of peace, healing, and justice. His work will live on, not just through the programs he founded but through the countless lives he touched and the community he helped build.

Victor Saunders’ passing is a profound loss, but his spirit will continue to live on in the work that still lies ahead. In his honor, Rochester must continue to strive toward the vision he set: a city where peace, opportunity, and justice are not just ideals but realities for all.