A new effort is underway in Toledo to curb violence and bring business to central Toledo.

"These children are affected by the violence, the ugliness and we want to make a difference," June Boyd, coordinator, New Toledo Inc., said.

With that in mine, a local group of community members is trying to help areas hardest hit by crime, blight and neglect.

"We've got to get a better mind set, bring people together and do something to resolve the problem," Boyd said.

That's how New Toledo Inc. was born. The grassroots coalition has a mission to better neighborhoods, starting with safety.

"This has run out for the crime, the violence, the children dying in the streets," Boyd told 13abc.

She says there are a lot of areas that have been plagued by violence, including murders, and enough is enough.

"They can be doing something positive, instead of robbing and killing each other," Boyd added.

Members are also looking for investors to take a chance. So, instead of vacant buildings, they can make room for a bowling alley, a multi-cultural center, restaurants and even a dance studio.

"I think people stepping forward and saying, 'how can we come together?', I think that will help," Sr. Virginia Welsh, pastoral leaders, St. Martin De Porres, said.

The group recognizes that this is a monumental task, but says it's just the beginning of something great.

"A city is not whole if its neighborhoods are not treated equal." Boyd said.