In This Issue:

*Police Chief Interview*

*More Violence Prevention Partner Results*

*Student Police Academy Registration*

*Cities United Conference in October*

*Downtown Safety Coalition Event Report*

September 27, 2023
Stop the Violence Newsletter
The City of Pittsburgh Office of Community Services and Violence Prevention exists to change the community narrative about violence and stop the spread of the disease of violence in the City.

Table of Contents

  • Someone You Should Know: New Police Chief Larry Scirotto
  • Violence Prevention Partner Award: The Western Pennsylvania Youth Athletic Association - Impacting Thousands!
  • Something You Can Do: 2023 Student Police Academy - Deadline Friday
  • Training: Cities United 2023 Conference
  • City Solutions: 2022 Stop The Violence Community Investment Grants - More Program Results
  • City Solutions: Public Safety Jobs Still Available
  • Solutions-Zone 2: Downtown Safety Coalition Afterschool Events
  • Solutions: Downtown After-School Youth Activities
  • Solutions-Zone 2: The Cellar Downtown
  • City Solutions: To Prevent or Interrupt Violence, Contact REACH
  • Solutions: Call 211 for Youth Diversion Services
  • City Solutions: Let Us Know Using [email protected]
  • Training: Community Violence Intervention-4 videos; Group Violence Intervention+, GVI Support & Outreach; Conflict Resolution Training and More
  • Facts and Stats: From August 2023
  • Coming Events
  • Solutions: Hotlines Ready To Serve You
  • Tips for You, Public Safety Councils, SaferTogether Coordinators, Poll Responses & Previous Newsletters
  • Community Resources: 40 Resources Listed
  • Brochure: Domestic Violence Resource Guide (please print)
  • Brochure: You and the Police (please print)

Please complete the 10 polls in this Newsletter
(#10 is at the very end of the Newsletter)

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Someone You Should Know:

NEW Police Chief Larry Scirotto

On His Career, Community Engagement and Violence Prevention
Larry Scirotto was sworn in as Pittsburgh's Police Chief on June 7, 2023. He returns to Pittsburgh after retiring from the chief's role of the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, police department in 2022. Chief Scirotto holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Ashworth University, is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command and is a master's degree candidate in Organizational Development and Leadership from Saint Joseph's University. He is a fitness enthusiast and has been a college basketball referee. 

Here is Chief Scirotto on his career, community engagement and violence prevention: 

His Career 

I grew up in Monessen (in the Mon Valley) and graduated from Monessen High School in 1991. I grew up with a single parent for most of my teen years. Informal mentors were vital in getting me into policing.
Young Larry Scirotto
at Monessen High School
I had friends who chose different paths in life. One close friend committed suicide at a very young age. Another friend was engaged in drug sales. As you grow up, you choose different paths in life. Fortunately, I had some excellent mentors in my life who were police officers and emergency medical services workers. They took a liking to me, and I followed their path. 
Chief Scirotto and Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt
During my years here at the Pittsburgh Police, I had the opportunity and privilege to work in almost every unit, and many of those assignments were related to violent crime strategies and crime reduction. I served in Zones 1, 2, and 3, the Northside, Hill, and South Side. The highlight was community engagement, the opportunity to work with members of our community more meaningfully, and problem-solving together as partners. 
Other highlights were having the opportunity to serve in the K-9 (police dog) unit with my partner Alf, who was tragically shot in the line of duty. I oversaw the Crimes Against Children's Unit, doing the most critical work: protecting our most vulnerable community, which is our kids. 

I spent 23 years with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, retiring in 2018 as Assistant Chief of Professional Standards (responsible for training, wellness, safety, and policy development). 
 
Community Engagement 
As police officers, we must build relationships based on trust. We must keep our communities safe, engage outside of times of crisis, and be true community partners.
Click on the picture above for a WPXI interview with Chief Scirotto
on community engagement
I am a true believer that it is the responsibility of all 900 men and women in the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police to be community police partners, to be community-oriented and community-engaged, and focused on improving the quality of life by determining with our community what matters to them. Needs are different, and we should have different responses and engagement based on individual community needs.
We need to listen about what community we think the whole city would benefit from. We must focus on problems more granularly instead of using an overarching strategy that only impacts one specific community. But a blueprint for the style of policing doesn't move the needle in community engagement. It doesn't move the needle in quality of life, either. 

Community members will know that something is different because they'll know our officers; something we can't say is true now. We need to make our officers accessible and available where they otherwise have not been.  
 
When I feel comfortable that we have the infrastructure in place to support this kind of transition, the Community Engagement Office will remain open for business. Any requests for police to participate in community meetings and events should be directed there. 

Violence Prevention 

Regarding gun violence, we should be using the tenets of the Group Violence Intervention Initiative (GVI) as the direction, and many of those strategies have shown to be very effective in other cities and Pittsburgh. 
Click on the picture above for a KDKA interview with Chief Scirotto
on violence prevention
Poll #1: Did you read any of the article or watch any of the videos about Chief Scirotto?
Yes
No
Violence Prevention Partner Award -
City-Wide:

The Western Pennsylvania Youth Athletic Association

Impacting Thousands of Families!
The City’s Violence Prevention Partner Award for September was presented to The Western Pennsylvania Youth Athletic Association on September 23 at Chadwick Field in Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar during halftime of a football game between the Lincoln Rams and the Duquesne Dukes. 
Stop the Violence Coordinator Jay Gilmer, Assistant Public Safety Director David A Jones and Tonya Payne, President of the Western Pennsylvania Youth Athletic Association


WPYAA, led by Tonya Payne, worked carefully with the City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety and Operation Better Block to enable 9 youth sports teams – at least one in each of Pittsburgh’s 6 police zones - to receive $15,000 each from the City’s 2022 Stop the Violence Community Investment Grant fund. 


The Pittsburgh Plan for Peace emphasizes the importance of community partnerships. Those partnerships are critical in connecting resources to residents and in bringing hope to the people they touch. All this is necessary to break the cycle of violence. 
All in all, over $150,000 was spent to benefit over 10,000 people in the City of Pittsburgh. The WPYAA and its partner teams made all of this possible.  A summary of their results is in the results reports below.

The teams (and their police zone) which received funds are: 
 
Zone 1: Northside Steelers – Coordinated by Audie Chapman
Zone 2: Hill District Rebels - Coordinated by Tywone Bray  
Zone 3: Southside Bears - Coordinated by Kevin Alton 
Zone 4: Hazelwood Cobras – Coordinated by Saundra Cole
Zone 5: East End Raiders (East Liberty) – Coordinated by Antoine Lester
Zone 5: Homewood Bulldawgs - Coordinated by Mubarik Ismaeli 
Zone 5: Lincoln Rams – Coordinated by Jamaul Sapp
Zone 5: Pittsburgh Kings (Lincoln Lemington) - Coordinated by Sheldon
Moorehead
Zone 6: Westside Mustangs - Coordinated by Martin Langford
Left to right: David A. Jones, Jamaul (Coach Mollie) Sapp of the Lincoln Rams, Tonya Payne, Melvin Cherry of the Lincoln Rams and Jay Gilmer
This money was used for two categories of expenses: 
 
#1-Athletic expenses. About 25% of the funds could be used for costs directly related to athletic activities, including security, referees, coaches, equipment, field or court or gym costs and game related travel. 
 
#2-Supporting expenses. About 75% of the funds could be used for expenses related to academic support and tutoring, provision of mental health/trauma support services, mentoring/LifeSkills training or classes for participants, families and coaches; insurance, team travel not related to games, team banquets that include families, and participant trophies or rings; coach, parent and family training on first aid, CPR, recognizing trauma, concussions, conflict resolution and mental health care. 
David A. Jones, Tonya Payne and Jay Gilmer
with cheer teams from the Lincoln Rams and Duquesne Dukes
Pittsburgh’s Public Safety Department created the award and intends to present one each month. The award is granted to those who engage in work to reduce community violence, promote positive partnerships between organizations and have persevered through stressful community events. Jay Gilmer remarked that "it is important for us to publicly acknowledge the good work being done by so many groups in our city. 
Poll #2: Are you familiar with the work of the WPYAA or any of the sports teams mentioned?
Yes
No
Something You Can Do:


Registration Deadline: Friday September 29
By John Tokarski, program manager for the Student Police Academy

For the past decade, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police has also offered an opportunity for high school students from the greater Pittsburgh community to learn more about police and the career of policing.

The Pittsburgh Student Police Academy (SPA) provides a unique experience, free of charge for students in grades 9-12, to become familiar and meet the various police officers that serve them on a one-to-one basis.

The SPA brings the police and students from various high school across Allegheny County, closer together in a setting that offers a sample of police training to each participant. The SPA allows high school students to experience numerous types of police training and are exposed to the various operations of the police bureau.

You do not have to live in the city to participate!
The spring 2023 Student Police Academy class at Police Headquarters
All students will receive 1.5 hours of training each Thursday evening from 6:30 PM until 8 PM, which will include some delicious pizza to start the evening off with, for 10 weeks on the beautiful campus of Point Park University, in Downtown Pittsburgh. They will be taught the basics of criminal law, search and seizure, patrol tactics, the history of policing, police accountability and many other subjects.

They will learn about the processing of crime scenes, how police canines are used and will be exposed to a variety of the specialty police units including the bomb squad and homicide investigations! Classes will begin on Thursday, October 5, 2023, with registration ending on Friday, September 29, 2023.

All interested students interested in the SPA, must complete the on-line application for consideration.

SEATS ARE LIMITED! APPLY TODAY!

For additional information and/or questions please contact: John Tokarski at [email protected] or call 412-432-8674.
Poll #3: Do you know anyone who has participated in the Student Police Academy?
Yes
No
Training:


Cities United is a national network of over 100 mayors (including our own Mayor Ed Gainey) who are committed to stopping the unprecedented and devastating loss of the lives of African-American men and boys in cities throughout America.
 
They are committed to ensuring that hope is restored to their communities and providing pathways to justice, employment, education and increased opportunities for residents. This is done by developing and implementing plans working in partnership with community leaders, families, youth, philanthropy, government officials and other stakeholders. 

Cities United is holding their 10th Annual Convening Conference from October 25 to 26 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Reverend Cornell Jones recommends the Convening to anyone “who wants to meet people doing violence prevention and community empowerment work from across the country. It is a chance to compare notes, be encouraged and pick up new strategies. Anyone attending will learn something and see how Pittsburgh compares with other cities.”

For further information on the Cities United Conference/Convening, please click HERE, to register for the Convening, please click HERE. Tell your friends!

City Solutions:


They're also getting it done!
Community organizations received 2022 Stop The Violence Community Investment Grants in order to implement programming that would affect violence and/or remediate trauma caused by violence or place protective factors around vulnerable populations.

Periodic reporting is required from each organization. Below are mid-year results highlights from a few community partners. More results will be in the next Stop the Violence Newsletter.
1 Nation Mentoring - Zones 3 & 6 - $25,000
Kevin McNair, director.

Population Served (proposed/actual): 50/52 
Ages 0-17: 50; ages 18-30: 2; ages 30+: 0 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: We do believe our program contributes to violence prevention and intervention especially during our school day at Brashear. The unique advantage we have is that we are actually in the school building and sometimes are the first line of defense for safety and avoiding the School-to-Prison pipeline that takes place in schools (alongside school staff). We are not only preventing fights, but we also help break them up. We are able to conduct mediations as soon as problems arise so usually there isn't much time for instigation from peers.  
 
The results have a major impact on not only the school culture but also the communities our students reside in as well. Oftentimes, when we conduct mediation, the parties involved are residents of the same community and sometimes even neighbors. There have been numerous times when prior to the mediation being conducted, there were plans in place for the students to meet up outside of school and fight. We understand that when these issues spill out into the community, it opens the doors for other community members to now be involved in the altercation, which can add another layer of danger to the situation. Therefore, we take mediating, and dissolving issues very seriously inside the school. 
  
Impact Story: 1Nation and the Brashear staff noticed a decrease in suspensions and a decrease in repeat offenders. We provided mental health check-ins with 60 students on a regular basis throughout the school year. 1Nation noticed an increase in students’ wanting to pursue post high school education and applying to traditional 4-year colleges.  
Ozanam, Inc. - Zone 2 - $25,000
Derrell Porter, director.

Population Served (proposed/actual): 650/550 
Ages 0-17: 450; ages 18-30: 100; ages 30+: 0 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: Through the Unity in the Community Project, Ozanam has endeavored to work with public safety, community leaders, parents, grassroots organizations, and service providers to strengthen connections to opportunities, resources, and services that encourage, support, and guide youth to make positive choices, pursue goals, and follow positive lifestyles. In addition to working individually with youth to accomplish these goals, Ozanam has also developed an infrastructure that allows for a broad-based approach that connects stakeholders, creating opportunities for positive youth engagement, and partnerships that address escalating problems. From building partnerships that connect disenfranchised youth to positive opportunities to coordinating a league which offers significant periods of violence-free involvement, Ozanam has strived to implement and achieve the goals of the Stop the Violence Initiative.  
 
Outcomes include:  
  • 550 youth enrolled in our Summer Basketball League  
  • 12 community and/or grassroots partnerships have been involved in leagues, tournaments, or workshops.  
  • 25 individuals have been received training in trauma frameworks which have been applied to programming for over 150 children and/or youth.  
  • 40 youth participated in the youth summit to address violence prevention. 
 
Impact Story: The significance of the engagement of police officers and public safety in community-based programming offered by Ozanam had a significant impact on youth, police officers, program staff, and community residents. Through positive engagement, the involvement of police officers with youth created bridges that transcended differences, changed attitudes, and built a foundation for positive interactions. Through incorporating these activities as part of our overall strategies for implementation of the basketball league, Ozanam sought to positively impact violence reduction.  
PROMISE - Zone 1 - $10,000
Jakim Donaldson, director.

Population Served (proposed/actual): 40/55 
Ages 0-17: 40; ages 18-30: 5; ages 30+: 10 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: Our 3v3 violence intervention and prevention basketball league was formulated to help the most at-risk youth during the most vulnerable times right after school between the times of 4-7pm.   
 
We had a profound impact on the group recognizing they are targets from not just certain rogue, profiling police but also some of their own classmates and neighbors who don’t want to see them doing better than them.  
 
Our objective is to build leaders in the community to walk away or prepare them for the temptations that can lead to crime or death. We helped them realize that just because someone comes from a different culture or neighborhood than another doesn’t mean they can’t relate or get along civilized. We also read and seen on the local news violent crimes were down 34% from a year ago and only hope to have it continue in that direction. 
 
Impact Story: Our stop the violence prevention and intervention 3v3 basketball league was a huge success on and off the court. Not only does our program teach our participants about a new international pro and Olympic sport, but it also brings many of our youth together with other youth from different backgrounds as well as our adults in the program who identify with our youth.  
 
With our program being held in Oakland we had a few of Central Catholic High School players participate in our program. In March, they shared with us their true feelings about the bomb threat they had at school earlier that day. With so many mass shootings and killings taking place in America, we were able to get real time emotions and thoughts on the situation and discuss in depth with professional activist/life coach Cecilia Ware about all the effects it had on students in and out of that school.

They were very shaken up and disturbed by the bomb threat as we all were and said they were really glad to have people to talk to who understood and cared how they felt about it. They told us our program was a “safe haven” to be able to express their true feelings, judgement free, with people who really care about their well-being. Basketball was just a bonus. 
Save A Life Today - Zone 6 - $40,000
Mary Williams, Director.

Population Served (proposed/actual): 150/112 
Ages 0-30: 10; ages 18-30: 25; ages 30+: 77 
Through our Christmas events, we served another 300 families (approximately 900 people total). 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: The Parents Place has taught family values and the right way to go about keeping your children engaged in life and wanting to do good. The impact of our project is to give families the tools to be successful within family and in life. If you can be a positive role model and are able to have the hard conversations with young people about the things that drive them to violence, we are in a better place. 
 
Impact Story: Stop the Violence Parents and Guardians Empowerment Class has exceeded every limit that I have set. 25 families represented faithfully. Initially, they were a room full of strangers. Perhaps half were from the West Side and the other half were from all over Pittsburgh - from the Northside to the Hill District to Monroeville, Clairton, Penn Hills, and Mount Washington.   
 
We came together as strangers and now they don't want to leave each other. They are friends. They go to each other's family events. They carpool, catch Ubers together to get to class. And every single one of them have embraced changing the way that they do things, getting the resources that they need to make their lives better so that they can make their children's lives better. Then they can make our communities better and stop all the violence. Everyone in this class is certified in CPR, AED, fire safety and stop the bleed techniques. 
 
A testimony from program participant: I took the stop the violence class and it taught me that if you want change, you have to be the change. I learned how to stop to the bleed, cpr, aed, credit repair. I learned stuff about homicides, glad girls, school behavior, mental health, the proper way to 302 someone. I learned a lot from our leadership classes and about group violence intervention. I have 6 sons and 2 daughters so everything I learned in class my kids will know about it and be able to utilize it and learn from it. I wish our class wouldn't end so soon. I now have another family outside of my family! 
Western Pennsylvania Youth Athletic Association – City-wide - $150,250
Coordinated by Tonya Payne. See the article above for the Violence Prevention Partner Award presented to this organization.
 
These are the teams that received funds through the WPYAA: 
 
       Zone 1: Northside Steelers     Zone 2: Hill District Rebels -
       Zone 3: Southside Bears·        Zone 4: Hazelwood Cobras –
       Zone 5: East End Raiders        Zone 5: Homewood Bulldawgs -
       Zone 5: Lincoln Rams Zone 5: Pittsburgh Kings -
       Zone 6: Westside Mustangs
 
Population Served (proposed/actual): 10,800/10,620 
Ages 0-17: 9900; ages 18-30: 360; ages 30+: 360 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: 1. Through all the scheduled events, and after school programming, we have kept the youth we serve busy and out out the street. By them being active in productive activities this has decreased violence in their age group. Parents were able to feel at ease knowing that their child(ren) were safe. Parents were able to keep levels of mental health down by not having to worry as much.   
 
2. While we for so long were focused on sports and athletics, this grant has helped us expand into programming out of the sports spectrum. Coaches are now also mentors are seeing more that sports are an outlet for kids, but now understand more that it isn't just about sports, but also education. Through training coaches are also understanding what a lot of the kids we service have different crisis’s in their lives and they are now better capable of communicating, understanding, and have the ability to assist with what each child may be dealing with.  
 
3. More parents and older teens are volunteering within our programs. This also keeps them active on positive activities which leads to less violence. 
 
Impact Story:  Two young men in particular, were really struggling in school. Both of their grades were really low, and they were barely passing. Once the after-school programming in each of their areas was provided both of them have achieved higher marks and one made the honor roll. Mentors/after school staff were able to instill the importance of education, and that by applying yourself to achieve better grades they could make it happen. After school staff reported that both of these young men are always on task to completing assignments without being told, and they are actually assistance others with getting their homework done as well.
Za’kiyah House - Zone 5 - $15,000.  
Coordinated by Ronna Davis-Moore  

Population Served (proposed/actual): 45/40 
Ages 0-17: 0; ages 18-30: 30; ages 30+: 10 
 
Violence Prevention Impact: What we know, and it has been proven, that resources help our people stay out of jail. Za'kiyah House has brought a resource sharing workshop to individuals that would not ordinarily attend such a workshop or hear about those resources. These workshops have given people ways to live and not just survive. They have the information in hand and real people to reach back to after the workshop is over. We have also introduced healing to families who would rather seek revenge, but instead chose to talk with others that have lost loved ones. Participants have taken advantage of those resources. 
 
We believe the impact of our Workshops has been to eliminate the barriers between providers and the people who need help. Usually, this population of people are so ashamed, and stigmatized because of their past, that they will not reach out for help. Some even put up an aggressive wall that led to them to becoming violent in the first place, because they did not know how to deal with emotions correctly. These workshops break down those walls so they can effectively utilize information that is provided directly to them. 
 
Impact Story: Jimmy (name has been altered), came from a very violent background, he served years in jail for a violent crime. He reported not knowing any other way. Our workshops introduced him to resources. Our resources introduced him to ways to make money legally, ways to get housing and ways to stay off of drugs. Jimmy now has his own apartment and he is working a full-time job. He made a change because of his relationships with people who helped him get in doors he usually would be unable to. 
The entire list of 2022 grant recipients and funded programs has been posted on the Department of Public Safety's Violence Prevention website. To see it, just click HERE.

If you would like contact information on any of the grantees, please contact the STOP the Violence Office.

These grants are a component of the Pittsburgh Plan For Peace that will compliment the existing work being done by the City's Group Violence Intervention Support and Outreach efforts, including the REACH team.

These violence prevention efforts are made possible by the City's STOP the Violence Trust Fund.
Poll #4: Are you pleased to see these results from City funded programs?
Yes
No
Other non-City of Pittsburgh public safety related and violence prevention positions:


Solutions-Zone 2:

Downtown Safety Coalition Afterschool Events

Organized Fun For Teens
in Market Square!



By Ian Reynolds, SaferTogether Coordinator for Police Zones 2 and 3
The Downtown Safety Council hosted its first fall event on Wednesday, October 20 in Market Square. it was great turnout for the first event with many partners coming together to provide resources for everything from music, food, resources for after school programs, jobs and so much more.
With the help of over 35 partnering organizations, over 150 students got to eat and play safely downtown.

Many youth attendees also signed up to be a part of an ecosystem that will share information about events, resources and start a committee for downtown so that Downtown Safety Coalition partners can provide necessary assistance to students or their families.
Three more Market Square events are scheduled for:

Wednesday October 4
Wednesday October 11
Wednesday October 18

They all start at 3:00 p.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. Of course, all are welcome.

For further information or to get involved with the Downtown Safety Coalition, contact Tamara Collier at [email protected].
Poll #5: Did you know about these Downtown Safety Council events prior to seeing this article?
Yes
No


Solutions:

Downtown After-School Youth Activities


The list is on our website!
If you have or know a child who could benefit from after school activities in Downtown Pittsburgh, please see the Current Downtown Youth Services Guide which is posted on the Public Safety-Violence Prevention website. You can access it HERE.

There are lots of good programs ready to go! They include:

  • YouthPlaces-The Plug
  • The Club
  • Carnegie Library
  • 412 Youth Zone
  • Team 412 Boxing
  • J Miles Youth Engagement Center
  • The Cellar @ First Presbyterian Church

If you know of additional activities that you would like included in the Guide, please send the necessary information HERE.


Solutions-Zone 2:
The Cellar Downtown

Open For YOU!


The Cellar is an out-of-school time space for high school students that operates year round. It offers free snacks, video games, karaoke, a pool table, foosball, dart board, arts/crafts and more.


Since The Cellar opened in May 2023, over 80 students have visited and many have become regular attendees. Students come from City High, Urban Pathways, Passport Academy, Sci Tech, Oliver, Carrick, and more.


For more information, contact The Cellar director, Joanne Galinowski, at [email protected]

Poll #6: Do you think there are sufficient things for teens to do in downtown Pittsburgh?
Yes
No





Click on the picture for a video about some of the work of the REACH team
City Solutions:

To Prevent or Interrupt Violence
Contact REACH
Direct pro-active outreach to the highest-risk individuals and families is a key component of Pittsburgh's violence prevention strategy. The Pittsburgh street outreach team is known as REACH.

REACH workers are knowledgeable community members who interact with individuals of any age who have been impacted by violence or are at risk due to their circumstances or acquaintances. They are selected based on their individual experience, relationships and historical knowledge and are now embedded in communities across the City of Pittsburgh.

REACH workers also have access to resources that might be needed by individuals or families to help prevent violence, so don't hesitate to contact REACH if you know someone or are someone at-risk and in need.
1-833-44REACH
or
REACH is funded by the City of Pittsburgh through a contract with the Hill District's Center That Cares. REACH General Manager is The Reverend Glenn Grayson. Program Manager is Antoine Bailey and Supervisors are Vaughn Rivers (Zones 1 and 2), Terri Minor Spencer (Zones 3 and 6) and Ayo Young (Zones 4 and 5).

If you become aware of a situation which could benefit from the presence of REACH workers OR if you know an individual who needs support, mentoring or resources to avoid trouble, please contact REACH at 1-833-44REACH.
Solutions:


To Divert Youth From the Criminal Justice System
Caring Connections for YOUth is a community-led initiative developed by the Black Girls Equity Alliance (BGEA) that provides access to supports and services to ANY YOUTH, up to age 18, living in Allegheny County as a diversion from the juvenile justice and child welfare systems.
The goal for Caring Connections for YOUth is to reduce youth violence and arrests by reducing the interactions that children have with police.
 
Caring Connections for YOUth works with 211, so if a kid or a family in Allegheny County needs help for things like a conflict between a parent and child, truancy, fighting or even minor drug possession, all they have to do is call 211, press 3 and be connected with an operator instead of the cops. 

The program was developed based on data collected by Gwen's Girls. They looked at the numbers of juveniles who are arrested, cited or referred to juvenile court for minor offenses. They found that not knowing who to call for resources and support was one reason young people ended up in the system, when really they needed help.

For a December 2022 story from KDKA-TV on Caring Connections for YOUth, please click on the picture of Dr. Kathi Elliott below.
City Solutions:
 
Let Us Know Using
 
Are you aware of a NON-EMERGENCY situation that has the potential to turn violent but doesn’t yet need police attention? This could include a dispute, feud, insult, social media post, party, sporting event, fight being planned or even a rumor. It could involve school students or adults of any age, men or women. 

If you are, please contact the City of Pittsburgh's STOP the Violence Office using email address: [email protected]. When you send the email, please leave a few details and the neighborhood you are writing from. You will receive an initial response within 2 business days. 
If you know someone who needs a bit of help to avoid getting involved in activities that could lead to violence and someone becoming a statistic, please let us know. Help might include advice, family assistance, recovery, support from peers, or even a place to go. 

The City of Pittsburgh STOP the Violence Office has access to many resources and partner organizations who would be pleased to help you or your friend. The STOP the Violence Office is part of the City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety but is not the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.
THIS EMAIL ADDRESS IS NOT AN EMERGENCY HOTLINE
AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR CALLIING 911 OR 311    

IF VIOLENCE IS READY TO BREAK OUT, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY!
Training:
Community Violence Intervention
Across the country, cities are utilizing violence prevention strategies that are similar to Pittsburgh's and use a combination of Group Violence Intervention, Cure Violence, community partnerships and other elements. Now known as Community Violence Intervention (or CVI), these approaches attempt to coordinate efforts for maximum results. Key to all efforts is continuous community education about the available resources and interventions and the results.

The Giffords Law Center has researched Community Violence Intervention and produced a seven hour webinar series that can be found here (on the website, scroll down until you see this picture):
Poll #7: Do you think you have a good understanting of Community Violence Intervention?
Yes
No
Mayor Gainey's Pittsburgh Plan for Peace is a CVI strategy. You can find it here:
Group Violence Intervention +

Pittsburgh's Group Violence Intervention initiative (GVI) is a proven strategy to reduce shootings and homicides in urban neighborhoods by using a multi-aspect strategy:

  • informed street outreach and social services to prevent violence,
  • involved community members reinforcing community norms rejecting violence; and
  • law enforcement in partnership with the community when other means are not effective.

For additional information on GVI, including its history and rationale, see this hour-long webinar from Mayors Against Illegal Guns entitled Re-imagining Public Safety: Group Violence Intervention and Intimate Partner Intervention: Webinar. The password is: MAIGUn1versity!

Pittsburgh’s Group Violence Intervention (GVI) violence prevention strategy, including the complete logic model, was featured in the October 2021 STOP the Violence Newsletter which can be accessed HERE.

Support and outreach for GVI are coordinated by Rev. Cornell Jones, Director of Outreach who can be contacted at [email protected].

Street Outreach for the City of Pittsburgh is contracted to The Center that Cares' Reach team. Their General Manager is The Reverend Glenn Grayson, Program Manager is Antoine Bailey and Supervisors are Vaughn Rivers (Zones 1 and 2), Terri Minor Spencer (Zones 3 and 6) and Ayo Young (Zones 4 and 5). They can be reached at 1-833-44REACH.
GVI Support & Outreach:

Pittsburgh’s Public Health Approach to Violence Prevention-Part 1 was featured in the August 2021 STOP the Violence Newsletter which can be accessed HERE. Part 2, including GVI and its complete logic model, was featured in the October 2021 Newsletter and can be accessed HERE.

How does support and outreach work?
 
Recent research on GVI’s support and outreach component was released this month by the National Network for Safe Communities (NNSC). The report explains that in GVI, traditional “social services'' are replaced with a structure “tailored to members of the special core street population, their situation, and their needs.” This is done because “many GVI clients are not ready for traditional social services like remedial education and employment training … these clients instead receive ‘support and outreach.’ Support is defined as ‘providing centralized and accessible services for people at high risk of violence.’” Outreach is defined as ‘’making deliberate, persistent, and consistent connections to people involved in violence to foster new relationships and build community.”


Support and Outreach Best Practices
NNSC’s research from around the country has shown that effective outreach and support includes these best practices:

  • The Goal: Staying alive and out of prison.
  • Actually reach out.
  • Protect from risk.
  • Address trauma. 
  • Provide critical resources. 
  •  Support the whole family. 
  • Connect to traditional services. 

For the entire report on Support and Outreach, click HERE.

How you can help
Community efforts to compliment the GVI strategy are encouraged. Rev. Jones states: “Other community members, businesses and ministries can help too, even if they don’t have the skills to be an outreach worker, they can help us by sharing resources that can be directed towards the vulnerable population. We need everything that community members need in order to be successful from food to employment to fatherhood and motherhood support.” To get involved, please send an email to the STOP the Violence Office by clicking HERE.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, Atlanta City Council President Felicia Moore and Seattle Council President Lorena Gonzalez headed the list of speakers in a ten hour webinar on August 18 and 19, 2021 organized by the Center on Media, Crime and Justice at John Jay College to help journalists and the public gain greater understanding on efforts to address the rising levels of gun violence in at-risk communities.
The series focused on prevention and intervention strategies. Leaders of community intervention strategies and programs in Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia and Sacramento discussed what is and isn’t working in their cities. Pittsburgh’s efforts compare quite favorably with these efforts. 

The webinar consists of seven sessions, each lasting from 30 to 90 minutes. A table of contents is available so you can watch a particular session. Please take a look HERE.
Conflict Resolution Training

If you would like more information on violence prevention and some suggestions on ways to be involved with anti-violence activities, please click on and watch the two-hour training video to the right. This training was conducted in January 2021.

Our outreach teams include violence interrupters, but there are lots of other roles to play. After viewing the training video, please let us know your thoughts and how you'd like to be involved!
Webinar: How to Heal After a Homicide

For an insightful discussion on healing from trauma and access to resources necessary to heal after a loss, experts Dr. Toya Jones (Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work) and Valerie Dixon (Director of Family and Community Support for the Center for Victims) see the recorded video: How to Heal After a Homicide. This 37 minute video was recorded in January 2022.

Just click below to see the video:

Facts & Stats:

From August 2023

Below are selected crime statistics from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. These statistics are from the period August 1 to August 31, 2023. These only cover the City, not any areas of Allegheny County which are outside of the City. A few notes can be found after the charts.
IMPORTANT NOTES:

Note 1: The Non-fatal shooting incidents reported below includes only incidents, it is not a count of victims.

Note 2: One person who was a victim of a non-fatal shooting incident in 2022 but died in April 2023. This is included in the April statistics for Zone 2 but not in the overall count for April 2023.
___________________________________

A few statistics of note:

  • The total number of homicides and non-fatal shooting incidents through August 2023 both remain lower than in 2022. Homicides are down 25% and non-fatal shooting incidents are down 15%.
  • The total number of homicides in August (4) is the same as the number in 2022. This is below the 4-year average of 5 per month.

  • The total number of non-fatal shooting incidents in August decreased from 12 in 2022 to 10 in 2023.
  • The 10 non-fatal shooting incidents in 2023 is also less than the 5-year August average of 14.

  • There were no homicides in police zones 1, 3, ir 4 in August.
  • The most homicides in a police zone was 2 in zone 5.
  • There were no non-fatal shooting incidents in police zones 3 and 6 in August.
  • The most non-fatal shooting incidents were 4 in police zone 2.

Using a public health approach to violence prevention means attempting to understand the proximate and secondary causes of violence and tailoring solutions to fit the impacted population. There is no one answer. The combined work of all community institutions will be necessary to permanently change the culture of violence.

If you are interested in working to change these statistics and increase the peace in the City of Pittsburgh, please click HERE to contact the STOP the Violence Office.

What will you do to help?
City of Pittsburgh Police Zones:
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Non-fatal shooting incidents reported above includes only incidents, it is not a count of victims. Any incident with more than one victim counts as just one incident.
Poll #9: Do efforts to prevent violent crime get enough media attention?
Yes
No
Coming Events

If you want to receive periodic event announcements or are aware of an anti-violence event that is open to the public, please click HERE to send us a notice or announcement. Thank you.
Solutions:
Hotlines

They're ready to serve YOU!
988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Don't hesitate to call.

For more information on the Lifeline, including statistics on effectiveness and how YOU can become a trained responder, please click HERE.
Safety Tips for You

Tip #1:
Find The Right Out Of School Time Activities For Your Kids

Now that school is back in session, it's time to find those after-school activities for your kids.

Every school in Pittsburgh has many, many programs and activities that students may participate in when school is over.

There are also programs at many locations near school that provide transportation and even food.

After school hours are often a time for kids of all ages to get into mischief, so finding the right out-of-school time activities can make a big difference for your child.

If you're having trouble finding the right program or activity, please contact Caring Connections for Youth at 412-231-2612 or contact this office at 412-255-6774 or send an email HERE.



Tip #2:
Ask Around

The City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County are filled with outstanding services that can meet almost any need that a family has. If you've been reading this Newsletter, you have seen stories on programs for youth and adults in every part of town.

Unfortunately, finding the right service when you need it can be challenging. Since we don't pay attention to services until we need them, we may be unaware of fantastic resources that are nearby.

Unless we seek out people who can connect us with services and ask questions, we could miss out on the service that we need. Who do you know who you would ask in a time of need?

If you are unsure who to ask, here are a few suggestions:

  • Community group office
  • Community meeting (like our Public Safety Councils)
  • Police
  • Library
  • Pastor or church leader
  • Doctor
  • School counselor
  • Bulletin board or info table at a coffee shop
  • City Councilperson's office
  • SaferTogether Coordinator (they're listed below)

If you need something, don't be afraid to ask questions. Someone would be very happy to connect you.




Your Public Safety Council
Needs YOU!

Your zone's Public Safety Council is a place to go to stay aware of important developments relating to public safety in your police zone. It's also a great place to get to know your local police on a personal basis.

Public Safety Councils are run by residents and are open to all.

The usual meeting schedule is:







For connecting or other information about your Public Safety Council, click on the zone to send an email to the appropriate SaferTogether Coordinator:

Zones 1 & 5: Emily Embrey

Zones 2 & 3: Ian Reynolds

Zones 3 & 6: John Tokarski
Call Us If You Become Aware of a Dispute

If you hear of a school, social media or community dispute that needs to be defused before it leads to violence, please let us know. We would like to take positive steps to resolve such disputes before law enforcement must be called.

Please report any such disputes or issues to: STOP the Violence Office or text to 412-522-7286.
Domestic Violence Help:

Violence is not an acceptable method to resolve issues between friends or partners. If there are threats, please seek help!

When in danger, call 911 immediately.

Some other resources are in the Domestic Violence Resource Guide is reproduced below and can be accessed HERE.
August Poll Responses

Poll #1:
Did you attend a National Night Out event this year?

  • Yes 41%
  • No 59%


Poll #2:
Did you see your neighborhood or anyone you know in the National Night Out pictures?
  • Yes 54%
  • No 46%


Poll #3:
Are you familiar with the work of The Kingsley Association?

  • Yes 70%
  • No 30%


Poll #4:
Do you know anyone who might be interested in the Student Police Academy?

  • Yes 53%
  • No 47%


Poll #5:
Are these results (from the 2022 grantee reports) encouraging to you?

  • Yes 71%
  • No 29%


Poll #6:
Do you know anyone who might be good for one of these Public Safety jobs?

  • Yes 43%
  • No 57%


Poll #7:
Have you noticed members of the Reach team in the community?

  • Yes 47%
  • No 53%


Poll #8:
Would you consider participating in a discussion of Community Violence Intervention?

  • Yes 48%
  • No 52%


Poll #9:
Does knowing the real crime statistics affect your perception of violence?

  • Yes 68%
  • No 32%


Poll #10:
Are you aware of any youth that are in need of acter school programs or activities?

  • Yes 35%
  • No 65%


Poll #11:
Is there an organization that you would like to see promoted in this Newsletter?

  • Yes 59%
  • No 41%


Thank you for responding.

What can you do to help?


Previous Newsletters

Click on the dates below to find past issues of the City of Pittsburgh STOP the Violence Newsletter:





So you can more easily access content from previous issues of the Stop the Violence Newsletter, a table of contents for each issue is now on the City Violence Prevention website. You can find the listing HERE.

Do You Have Any Ideas?

The Stop the Violence Newsletter is produced monthly by Jay Gilmer, Coordinator of the STOP the Violence Office of the City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety.

Please send any ideas, notices or suggestions to: STOP the Violence Office.
Solutions:
Community Resources:
Who Needs Help?

There Are PLENTY of Outstanding Services Available for YOU in the City of Pittsburgh
A key part of the City’s violence prevention strategy is increasing the awareness of residents of those services that can help people form positive identities. All research indicates that the most important predictor of successful personal choices is a positive purpose. When someone is on their way to something that is attainable and surrounded by people pursuing positive goals, then they are less likely to become involved with negative behaviors.

The STOP the Violence Newsletter is committed to making residents aware of services that can assist community members of all ages in forming those positive identities.
These listings do not contain ALL available services -- there are dozens of services in each police zone. Additional services will be added frequently.

These listings are not advertisements or endorsements. They are to make you aware of opportunities for you and the people you know and care about.
If you are aware of a service that should be mentioned in a future STOP the Violence Newsletter, please send the necessary information HERE.

If your organization wants to be listed or update its information, please send the necessary information HERE.
Zones 3 & 6:
Youth & Family Mentoring & Support


1 Nation provides in-school based mentoring at Brashear High School, out-of-school time structured activities, including academic support, personal accountability and empowerment workshops, and summer camp for youth ranging from 5th grade through High school. 

Kevin McNair is Executive Director.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Citywide:
Youth Mentoring

(2 Tenths Speed and Agility)
412-728-7251

Founded by DeWayne Brown, and now assisted by Executive Director Rick "Biggs" Bigelow, 2 Tenths focuses on athletic training, mentoring, restorative justice, mental wellness and youth advocacy. Athletic training takes place at the Steelers practice facility on the Southside. Other activities are at Warrington Recreation Center and other locations in the South Hills.

"I have been volunteering with them for the past few years and the amount of kids (a few hundred monthly) that we try to keep off of the street is impactful. These kids will tell you that if they weren’t training with us, that they may have entertained some unhealthy behaviors." said Nicole White of Manchester. 

Athletic training is available for athletes of all ages, from midget league to adults, men and women. For further information, see their website HERE.
Zone 3:
Youth Mentoring & Support-STEM Education


25 Carrick Avenue Project provides youth development and skills training from its location in Carrick. Program areas include entertainment and event technology, education, workforce development.

Key staff members include Pete Spynda, Executive Director, Jordan Gilliam, Director of Education, and Trevaun Hairston, Outreach Coordinator.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 3:
Youth Lifeskills Development

Phone #: 412-326-8014
A’s Vision teaches lifeskills to teens including how to become responsible drivers and banking and money management. 

A good article appeared in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on May 31 on A's Vision. You can see the article HERE. Their capacity is growing and they are are interested in helping YOU!
Aaron Wade of A's Vision


For further information or to sign up for the next money management courses or for driving instruction, contact Aaron Wade of A’s Vision at [email protected] or click HERE.
Citywide:
Youth Mentoring


Founded by NFL star Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams, the AD 99 Solutions Foundation provides mentoring, academic support, and lifeskills training for selected high school athletes; a summer sports skills camp; and periodic clinics to youth sports coaches.

For further information, see their website HERE, or contact Akita Donald, Executive Director or Rita Gillcrease, Program Coordinator.

1-412-330-4328

Offering world-renowned expertise in evaluating and treating children who have experienced traumatic life events or live with post-traumatic stress disorder. A program of Allegheny Health Network.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support - Academics

Bible Center Church-The Maker's Clubhouse
1-412-242-4920

Offers afterschool STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture and Math) and socio-economic learning programming in Faison and Lincoln Schools.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 3:
Youth Development & Family Support

412-431-2236

The Brashear Association serves community members in South Pittsburgh neighborhoods and works with them to solve challenges they may be facing. The Executive Director is Beltzhoover native Andrea Matthews.

Programs include:
  • Food, utility and rental assistance
  • Employment services
  • After-school youth programming for anyone in grades K-12

For further information, see their website HERE or send an email HERE.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support - Athletics & Academics

5315 Hillcrest Street - Garfield
1-412-404-2250

Serving boys and girls ages 7 through 17. Offering mentoring, tutoring, cultural and educational activities, recreation and parent information. Operating after-school and summer camp programs. Also home of the Garfield Gators.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Center for Victims
Hotline: 1-866-644-2882

Caring, professional staff is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week to respond to emergency needs of crime victims and witnesses, answer questions, and provide support. You can also call:

Valerie Dixon at the Center for Victims at 1-412-403-0194 or [email protected].

Darnell Drewery at the Center for Victims at 1-412-758-9237 or [email protected].
Zone 4:
Youth & Family Mentoring & Support


Center of Life, based in Hazelwood, provides families and youth with the lifeskills, education, training and resources necessary to be strong and to make their communities strong. They have a variety of programs including after-school activities for youth in grades K-12, plus family services and resources.

Key staff include Reverend Tim Smith, Kiyomi Knox, DaVonne Fuller, Sarah Crawshaw, and Meg Mszyco.

For more information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 2:
Youth Mentoring & Support

1-412-26-CARES

CARES offers programs for pre-k through grade 12 – and beyond. They are committed to uplifting and transforming the lives of people of all ages through education, recreation, cultural enrichment, and thoughtful guidance.

For youth in pre-k through 5th grade, Cares offers nurturing, academic tutoring, recreational activities, and enrichment seminars.

For grades 6 to 12, Cares offers academic tutoring, career counseling, college and vocational school admissions assistance, and enrichment seminars.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring, Family Support & Workforce Development

7120 Kelly Street - Homewood
1-412-371-3689

Offering a variety of youth development programs for youth, including Asante Nation Safe Passage After-School, Kamp Kuumba, Saturday University Out-of-School Programming and African-American Leadership Institute. Also offers workforce development for all ages.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
City-wide:
Reentry

412-621-0622

Founded by Debra Germany after the murder of her son, Divine Intervention Ministries provides employment services and wraparound supportive services necessary for successful re-entry. the IMPACT Program, an 8-week faith-based program that provides a forum for intensive self-reflection and redirection, practical resources, after care/reentry services and mentoring support to the individuals incarcerated at Renewal, Inc.

For further information, see their website HERE or send an email to Debra Germany, Executive Director HERE.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support

412-345-7172

EECM offers a variety of in-school and after-school programs for youth of all ages. Programs include elementary educational support, media and musical outreach, girls enrichment and empowerment, sport (including hockey, volleyball, basketball cycling and more. They are work inside Obama and Westinghouse high Schools as well as many Zone 5 middle and elementary schools.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 5:
412-661-2802

A Federally Qualified Health Care Center providing a full range of medical, dental, pediatric, prenatal, and behavioral health services including staff therapists and a chaplain.  Locations in East Liberty, Lincoln-Lemington and Wilkinsburg. Even if you don’t have insurance, please come.
Western Pennsylvania:
Parenting Resources


The role of active parents to community and individual safety cannot be overemphasized. Many resources exist to help for both fathers and mothers. One such resource is the Fathers Collaborative Council of Western PA. The FCCWPA is made up of over over 20 organizations with resources for fathers and families. Their first monthly newsletter can be found HERE.



For information on the Fathers Collaborative Council of Western PA, including membership and resources, click HERE.

540 Suismon Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Offering a variety of programs to prevent incarceration, chaplaincy and pre-release to serve individuals in Allegheny County Jail and aftercare to prevent recidivism. For information on their support community for reentering citizens, their families and community members, send an email HERE.

Please call if you need help or want to help:

Adult or Youth Diversion: 412-321-3343
Allegheny County Jail Chaplaincy: 412-350-2057
Allegheny County Jail Pre-Release: 412-350-1322
Jail or Prison Aftercare: 412-321-3343

GriefShare

Numerous Locations
in Allegheny County

GriefShare is for people grieving the death of a family member or friend. GriefShare groups meet weekly to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. Each GriefShare session has three distinct elements: a video lesson, in-person group discussion, and personal reflection.

This weekly group is free (just purchase the workbook online), open to anyone, and is offered in numerous locations in western Pennsylvania. The 13 week series features a video and optional discussion. To be part of the next series, just find a location and sign up on the website at www.griefshare.org.
Downtown:

620 Stanwix Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
888-224-4673

As a peer support program, the Caring Place provides an environment where children, teens and adults can receive support from others their own ages who are going through very similar experiences, such as the loss of a parent or other loved one.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support - Academics

1-412-727-7605

Offering holistic support to students at Lincoln PreK-5, Faison K-5 and Westinghouse High School. They use an integrated focus on academics, health and social services, youth and community development and community engagement.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 1:
Youth Development & Violence Prevention

412-345-1366

Infinite Lifestyle Solutions provides a variety of services to Northside school students and their parents.

Programs include:
  • Restorative Safe Passages, to reduce violence and provide safety before and after school
  • Saving Our Sons & Daughters, to help youth who have suffered from trauma through violence
  • Teen Dating Violence Prevention, to help young participants to navigate healthy relationships

To get involved or for further information, please contact Cecilia Ware, Founder and Executive Director by clicking HERE or see their website HERE.
Jeremiah’s Place

6435 Frankstown Avenue
15206 (Larimer)
412-924-0726

Pittsburgh’s only crisis nursery. It provides emergency child care services for children ages 0-6 for a few hours or days based on the needs of each individual family. All services provided are free, available for 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
City-wide:
Street Outreach and Violence Intervention

MAD DADS

MAD DADS are concerned men from the community who want to be a positive presence on the streets. Over the years, they have learned that presence matters. They can regularly be seen in communities including downtown, Homewood, Hill District, Turtle Creek, Wilkinsburg and East Hills. A stipend may be availalble to members who participate in enough street patrols.
All interested drug-free men who care are invited to join. With more men, MAD DADS can be present in more communities. There's even a Moms Division for interested women.

To get started, please see the Greater Pittsburgh Area MAD DADS Facebook page or contact MAD DADS at [email protected].
Melanin Mommies

Latrice “Phoenix” Rose started Melanin Mommies out of a concern for family members of victims who are affected by grief and trauma. After doing a survey of families who lost someone, she realized that mental health services weren’t always offered to them. Even for those few families that received some counseling resources, they needed more for their families and children because the grief didn’t stop.

Do you need help coping with your loss? Is your child struggling to cope with the loss of a parent or sibling? Please sign up for the next Melanin Mommies Mental Healing Cohort. It will meet for 12 weeks every Saturday at 10:30 am. For more information, see the Melanin Mommies Facebook page or contact Latrice Rose at at [email protected].
Zone 5:
Men’s Huddle Group
 
Paul B. Jones, Sr. experienced the death of his 19 year old son Jeremiah in 2017. He formed The Men’s Huddle Group as a support group for fathers who have lost children to gun violence and otherwise.

The Men’s Huddle Group meets the fourth Thursday of each month from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Eastminster Presbyterian Church in East Liberty (250 Highland Avenue, 15206 – across from Home Depot).
 
For additional information, contact Paul Jones via email at [email protected] or call anytime (24/7) at 412-613-1912.
The MOMS Group
Support For Mothers

Tina Ford of Clairton formed Mothers of Murdered Sons (The MOMS Group) after the loss of her son in 2019.

The MOMS Group meets in Clairton on the third Saturday of each month. All are welcome, just call Tina in advance for the location. If transportation is a problem, just call Tina – MOMS sometimes arranges transportation or makes home visits to provide support.
 
For more information, see the MOMS Group Facebook page HERE or contact Tina Ford at 412-219-7157 or [email protected]..
Citywide:
Youth Mentoring
 
412-441-5405
 
MACAC Mentoring provides one to one and group mentoring for youth age 11-18 years old (grades 6-12) and enrichment activities including career readiness; life skills and spiritual development activities, field trips, academic enrichment and fun. All activities are based at the Mt. Ararat Community Activity Center, 745 North Negley Avenue Pgh, PA 15206.
Mentoring for 6th-8th grade is offered Thursday evening from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (dinner served).
 
Mentoring for grades 9-12 is offered Monday-Friday 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm (a monthly stipend for attendance may be available).
 
They are also recruiting adult mentors to join their team. Please contact Program Director Jeffrey Nash if you're interested.  
 
For further information, click HERE for their website.
Citywide:
412-261-1234
 
The Trauma Response Team cares for the acute needs of family and friends of homicide victims of gun violence across all of Allegheny County.

Dan Emerick, MDiv, MSW – Trauma Response Team Manager
Zone 4:
Youth Development & Mentoring, Workforce Development

1-412-670-8421

Based in Hazelwood, POORLAW offers mentoring for youth from ages 5 and up, intergenerational sharing and workforce development.

For further information, please see their website by clicking HERE.
Zone 1:
Youth & Family Mentoring & Support


Project Destiny operates from 5 locations on the Northside and provides a variety of services to youth and families. Services include after-school programs from 3 to 6 pm daily, counseling, pre-school programs, and mentoring.

The Reverend Dr. Brenda Gregg is Executive Director. Key staff include Jamella Hamlin, Daphne Curges, Gary Nolan and Darryl Goodwine.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 3:
Youth Development and Mentoring

412-708-4008

Shadow Student Athletes provides culturally responsive mentoring for student athletes using character coaches at public schools. These character coaches act as conflict specialists to support students, families and school staff by assisting in a variety of ways.

The Executive Director is Von Madden.

For further information, see their website HERE or send an email HERE.
Zone 3:
Street Outreach, Youth Development and Mentoring

South Pittsburgh Coalition for Peace
South Pittsburgh Coalition for Peace is home of the South Pittsburgh Peacemakers, a street outreach team which is available to prevent violence and intervene in situations which could lead to violence. They also offer educational workshops on violence prevention and community responses to violence. Two of their initiatives are described below.

"Our primary focus in the community is to interrupt violence from occurring in Pittsburgh neighborhoods; however, if violence cannot be prevented, our mission is to provide a voice in the community, especially for children," said Rev. Eileen Smith, Executive Director.

For further information, please contact Reverend Eileen Smith, Executive Director at 412-481-2777 or see their Facebook page.
City-wide:
Adult Workforce Development


Trade Institute of Pittsburgh provides skill training and wrap-around services for individuals interested in construction trades. Their primary location is in Homewood, but they accept students from across the region.

Key staff include Donta Green, Executive Director, Kirk Gilbert, Case Manager and Chett Williams, Life Coach.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 1:
Youth Mentoring & Support

1-412-321-3811

Urban Impact provides a safe place for in and out-of-school programming opportunities for children from preschool through high school in various locations on the NorthSide.

They offer 60+ unique programs, including:

  • Education/Academics
  • Athletics
  • Performing Arts
  • Options Workforce Readiness

Learn more by visiting their website: ULIPgh.org.
Zone 5:
Life Skills & Family Support-Housing

134 South Highland Avenue #6 - East Liberty
1-412-573-9217

Offers trauma and life skills individual, group and family workshops and a variety of educational opportunities for entrepreneurship and job readiness.

Also offers specialized counseling to prepare individuals and families to be emotionally, physically and financially fit to purchase a home. Also offers renters eviction coaching, credit and budget counseling.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support - Athletics

Westinghouse Youth Wrestling
1-412-709-0775

"Wrestling is one of the greatest sports for helping young kids build their character, develop self-confidence, improve discipline, and strengthen their will to succeed."

For community youth from any school who are between ages 5 and 17.

Participants also participate in outdoor experiences, goal setting and mentorship.

For additional information, contact Justin Perkins, Director at the above telephone number or click HERE to send an email.
Zone 5:
Youth Mentoring & Support

1-412-661-7834


YES provides socially and economically at risk youth the opportunity to achieve success through participation in mentorship, education, and enrichment programs. Mentorship is available to students who are ages 14-21, attending Pittsburgh Public Schools or schools in surrounding districts. Education programs include academics, employment preparation, leadership development and empowerment.

To get involved as a mentor, volunteer or to enroll a student, just click HERE.
City-wide:
Youth Development

412-434-0851

Youthplaces offers out-of-school time activities for teens in safe places to learn, grow, play and succeed. It currently has locations on the Northside, Downtown, East Liberty, McKeesport and McKees Rocks.

For further information, see their website HERE.
Zone 5:
Reentry Support

412-595-6666

Za'Kiyah House provides housing, life skills and reentry support for men and women from several locations, including one in Homewood.

Ronna Davis-Moore is the Executive Director. Key staff include Joseph Moore and Regina Pearson.

For further information, click HERE for their website.
Teen Dating Violence

Since one in three teens is a victim of teen dating violence, you probably know someone who has been a victim.

Click HERE for resources on teen dating violence. Click on the picture for a Teen Dating Violence Action Action Guide.
Other:

  • Alma Illery Medical Center’s Behavioral Health Services Office:
412-244-4700
  • City of Pittsburgh Dept. of Public Safety’s Victims of Crime Office:
412-707-2988
  • Dr. Staci Ford, Trauma Recovery and Violence Intervention Specialist: 412-277-4616
  • Jessica Gurley, LCSW: (412) 204-6934
  •  RESOLVE Crisis Center - 24 hours: 1-888-796-8226
Poll #10: Do you have any ideas for improvements to the Stop the Violence Newsletter?
Yes
No
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