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In January 2005, the Newport News City Manager convened a Steering Committee to discuss the growing threat of violence in our community. The Committee was especially concerned with violence that was directed toward or witnessed by children and youth. Information presented by Transitions Family Violence Services indicated that exposure to violence in the home, school or community is the single most powerful factor for placing children at risk for becoming violent individuals as youth and adults. In addition, children exposed to violence and mistreatment generally also suffer increased depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, anger, alcohol and drug abuse, and lower academic achievement. The Steering Committee determined that our community needed a proactive plan to create a culture of non-violence by aligning supports, services and opportunities for children, youth, and families around the common theme of violence prevention. Twenty-nine community organizations and agencies, and City departments have signed a Memorandum of Understanding making a commitment to the goals of the Keeping Our Kids Safe Action Plan. The Action Plan incorporates established programs and activities for skill building such as youth leadership development, parent education and support groups, Unitown, Al’s Pals, Protect Our Kids, Healthy Start and new programs such as the Community Leadership Institute.
This website is intended to be a resource for those that are seeking information or help, and to raise the awareness of this important issue in our community.
The Newport News Violence Prevention Network has made a commitment to prevent violence in Newport News. You are encouraged to join the Network in this effort. For more information please call the Newport News Office on Children, Youth and Families at 757-597-2801, or contact us using our e-form.
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