RICHMOND, VA- For the second consecutive year, Richmond will call attention to the problem of youth violence in a week-long campaign coordinated by the INSPIRE Workgroup, Richmond’s Youth Violence Prevention Coalition! From March 18, 2019 through March 22, 2019, Richmond’s second annual Youth Violence Prevention Week will raise awareness and educate our community on effective ways to prevent or reduce youth Violence. INSPIRE is comprised of representatives of public agencies, nonprofit organizations and Richmond residents. The Coalition along with a myriad of community partners have coordinated a week long schedule of activities that include community conversations, policy forums, and awareness activities lead by our youth. (see attached calendar).
In 2018, Mayor Levar Stoney issued the inaugural proclamation recognizing the third week of March as Richmond Youth Violence Prevention Week in the city. In 2018, approximately 850 youths, caregivers, and community partners engaged in citywide workshops and discussions around youth violence and the effects on our communities. This year, the activities being planned will build upon the feedback received from 2018.
For several years now, there have been too many incidents of community violence and gun fatalities that have resulted in the loss of our youth. Last year, violence ended the lives of nearly twenty young people under the age of 25 years-old. To that end, INSPIRE represents the greatest strength in Richmond’s efforts to reduce youth violence collectively and seeks to create a city where youth are safe, nurtured and empowered for success. Richmond Youth Violence Prevention Week is an opportunity to engage the community, explore areas for growth, elevate the youth voice and unite in action.
For additional information regarding the week’s activity or the INSPIRE Workgroup please contact Shanel Lewis atinspireworkgroup@gmail.com.