Hadiya's Promise to combat gun violence

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Friday, June 13, 2014
(FILE) Honor student Hadiya Pendletonm 15, was shot to death in January 2013.
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CHICAGO (WLS) -- Hadiya Pendleton's parents announced a non-profit organization to combat gun violence in Chicago and across the nation.

Hadiya's Promise is named after their 15-year-old daughter, who was shot to death in January 2013 after leaving school. The death of the King College Prep High School honor student who had just performed at President Barack Obama's inauguration drew national attention to violence in Chicago. First lady Michelle Obama attended her funeral.

The organization will work to prevent gun violence and provide children with opportunities to steer them away from fights. Cleopatra and Nathanial Pendleton say the organization will honor their daughter by celebrating her life.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel attended Friday's event and spoke about programs and jobs to help kids stay busy during the summer.

Two men are held without bond on first-degree murder charges in Hadiya's murder. They both pled not guilty.