Several rap stars appeared at a Nampa church Sunday to help preach the gospel to former gang members.

NAMPA - A program in Nampa aims to cut down on gangs across the Treasure Valley, by showing members another way.

The unique program has a specific purpose: help gang members leave their lifestyle behind by teaching them about God.

Victory Outreach came to Idaho about a year ago because program leaders saw a need here in the Treasure Valley.

Today the organization brought in several rappers to try and reach gang members and teach them about the bible.

Many former gang members at Sunday’s event say the program is very needed in the Valley and it is one that can change lives.

“I have been getting high since I was 9 years old,” former gang member Alvin Ramirez said. “I was in a jail cell in Canyon County and I said ‘I am tired of doing this, I need Your help.’ I have been clean and sober going on ten months, it’s a blessing.”

Most of the people running the program locally were once part of the gang life.

Sunday’s event was held at the Lakeview Nazarene Church in Nampa.