Youth Violence Prevention

Youth Violence is a critical and persistent problem in Polk County and the trend is toward increasing violence. Youth violence, perpetrated both by and against young people, results in considerable physical, emotional, social, and economic consequences. This collaboration will compile local information and convene local leaders including a significant youth voice to produce a position and comprehensive, strategic approach to youth violence and prevention, called a Blueprint to Prevent Youth Violence in Polk County. History and experience tell us that youth violence not only affects the victims and perpetrators, it affects the broader community including the families and friends of both, neighbors near where the violence took place, teachers and fellow students, co-workers, innocent bystanders who witnessed the violent act, first responders and many others. The work’s ultimate success relies on community stakeholders who will play a role in weaving together the broad network of stakeholders and committed parties working toward one common goal: the eradication of youth violence.