On Jan. 5, 2010, Steve Arrington, II was fatally shot five times as he exited a family convenience store in Eerie, Pennsylvania. His mother found the best way to cope with the enormous pain of her loss was to help save other teens and families from the same experience.

As a result, Sonya Arrington started Mothers Against Teen Violence, a non-profit organization that educates and raises awareness about teen violence. Through MATV, Arrington is a regular speaker at schools, churches and detention centers.

Sonya Arrington is making history… through her efforts to curb teen violence. In addition to giving talks on the subject, Arrington has organized events such as a pool party and talent show to unite her community.

What’s next for Sonya?

Arrington continues to raise awareness about teen violence through MATV.

A little-known fact about murder rates …

According to the U.S. Census there were more than 13,700 reported murders in 2009.

For more information, click here.THE GRIO’S Q & A WITH SONYA ARRINGTON

Q: What’s next in this chapter of your life?

A: To help MATV become a worldwide organization and get national attention on raising awareness about teen violence, which is happening all around the world at a record high.

Q: What’s a fact about you that many people don’t know?

A: That I love my children dearly from the start of their lives ‘til the end of my life and after!

Q: What’s your favorite quote?

A: “The mold of our children — success begins at home.” What we show them is what they will bring to our community.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?

A: From my baby and only son, Steve Arrington, II.

Q: Who are/were your mentors?

A: My mother who pass away from Lupus in May of 2006 and her mother, my grandmother, who passed away in October of 2009.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who’s craving to achieve their dreams?

A: Stay focused and never let anyone tell you that you can not do what ever you set your mind to do! And always stay positive no matter how negative the situation gets.