Throughout the week of April 14 – April 20, 2024, the City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention is partnering with several community organizations to host a week-long series of events highlighting Youth Violence Prevention Week.
Garden Rededication
April 14, 2024
Who: The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention, and the R.I.C.H. Program
What: In 2014, the R.I.C.H. program established a Garden of Peace as a memorial for those lives lost to gun violence. At this event the community will rededicate this garden and through prayer and spoken word acknowledge these Ancestors of all ages. Refreshments will be provided at the end of the event.
When: This event has been POSTPONED. The new time and date is TBD.
Where: Pacific Park, 200 Wayne Street, Columbia, SC 29201
X-Factor Experience
April 16, 2024
Who: The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention, the R.I.C.H. Program, and Growth Coach Welvin Simpkins
What: The R.I.C.H. Program will host an encore performance of The X Factor role play session where youth will interact with each other to discuss their emotions and triggers of “real” life situations. The role paly session will be followed by a discussion about the impacts of video games and social media between youth and adults. Renowned Growth Coach Welvin Simpkins will also talk with participants about becoming “A LIFE Champion.” Coach Simpkins is the Founder & CEO of Lĭv To Grō, a style of visionary coaching that encourages and empowers participants by giving them clear direction and strategies for achieving success.
When: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 from 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 2300 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29205
Register here: https://forms.columbiasc.gov/240944236130954
Youth Game Night with Councilwoman Tina Herbert
April 18, 2024
Who: Councilwoman Tina Herbert and the City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention.
What: An evening full of fun and games with Councilwoman Tina Herbert.
When: Thursday, April 18, 2024 starting at 5:30 PM
Where: Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Ave. Columbia, SC 29203
Register here: https://forms.columbiasc.gov/240944321221950
Youth Entrepreneurship
April 19, 2024
Who: The City of Columbia Office of Violent Crime Prevention, Director of EARN the Right, Joe Sicilio, and local youth entrepreneurs.
What: This event will share tips on how youth and young adults can turn their creative ideas into business opportunities. A panel of local business owners will talk about their business journey and give valuable tips for starting and running a business. Participants will also participate in exercises to practice their skills!
When: Friday, April 19, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Earlewood Park, 1113 Recreation Drive, Columbia, SC 29203
Register here: https://forms.columbiasc.gov/240943339068967
