The City of Knoxville and community organizations will mark National Youth Violence Prevention Week, April 22-26, 2024, with multiple local activities and programs that draw attention to the causes and potential solutions to youth violence.

The City’s Office of Community Safety and Empowerment is hosting a kick-off party on Sunday, April 21, 2-5 p.m. at John T. O'Connor Senior Center, 611 Winona Street.

The event will include food (while supplies last), music, activities and area resource providers, including faith leaders. 

“The kickoff event allows families to learn more about community organizations working to combat youth violence,” says Star Starks, Partnerships and Programs Coordinator. “Organizations don't solely have to focus on youth to combat youth violence. Youth violence is a multifaceted problem that needs a multifaceted solution. For this reason, the event has both youth-serving agencies and adult-serving agencies.” 

During the week, multiple groups that received grant funding from the City will provide activities and workshops related to youth engagement and violence prevention, as well as social activities. Participating groups include the Knoxville Area Urban League, Renounce Denounce Violence Interrupters, My Daughter’s Journey, Drums Up Guns Down, YWCA, Turn Up Knox, The Edge Foundation and The Change Center. 

A list of activities and workshops is posted at KnoxvilleTN.gov/YVPW. 

The Office of Community Safety and Empowerment, led by Chief Community Safety and Empowerment Officer LaKenya Middlebrook, leads violence interruption strategies, coordinates safety innovation and collaboration among City departments, and enhances partnerships with on-the-ground people and organizations who are working to make Knoxville safer. Learn more online at KnoxvilleTN.gov/CommunitySafety.