In recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Week, the City of Columbia’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) is partnering with Richland One schools and local community organizations to host a series of interactive, social-emotional learning workshops from April 21–26, 2025.
“Our goal is to empower students with the tools to manage emotions, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build positive relationships,” said Kimberly Goethe, Program Assistant for ONSE. “Prevention starts with equipping young people with the right skills.”
The national initiative is part of a national effort to raise awareness and promote proactive solutions to reduce youth violence in schools and communities. The workshops will equip students with essential skills in anti-bullying, peer pressure, mindfulness, conflict resolution, and positive decision-making to foster safer and more supportive learning environments.
“Our office understands that parent and family engagement are important. That is why we host monthly activities to create safe spaces for youth, young adults, and their families, said ONSE Director Trevon Fordham. “As we highlight Youth Violence Prevention Week, we realize that violence prevention starts in the home with parents and family members. Working together, we can all make our communities safer and more resilient!”
Week of Activities:
Monday, April 21
The Office will kick off the week by wearing orange to bring awareness to National Youth Violence Prevention Week and encouraging community members to do the same. Participants are invited to use the hashtag #NYVPW when posting to social media.
Tuesday, April 22
The Office will conduct Peer Pressure workshops at Dreher High School to focus on handling peer pressure and interactive games and discussion, including bingo. The workshop aims to build resilience, improve communication, and manage stressful situations. *Please note that this is not a public event and only open to students at participating schools
Wednesday, April 23
Event: Anti-Bullying Workshop
Location: Eau Claire Print Building, 3907 Ensor Ave, Columbia, SC 29203
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Details: In partnership with Kimestry Wellness LLC, ONSE will host a public Anti-Bullying Workshop to empower youth to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying. Youth will learn about the impacts of bullying, strategies from standing up for themselves and others, and the importance of kindness. Registration is required: https://forms.columbiasc.gov/250845329859976
Thursday, April 24
The office will be conducting conflict resolution workshops at Heyward Gibbs Middle School, themed “Cool Heads, Safe Spaces” to teach youth how to resolve conflicts calmly through role-playing, problem solving, and group discussions. *Please note that this is not a public event and only open to students at participating schools
Saturday, April 26
Event: Artistic Expression Art Showcase
Location: Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Details: ONSE will be partnering with P. E. A. C. E. for their Artistic Expression Art Showcase at Hyatt Park in collaboration with Parks & Recreation. The event is open to High School Students and will have 2 blocks. The first will be for hands on artistic expression and the second block will focus on dance and mindful movement.
*Please see attached flyer
