Supporting youth and reducing violence in Seattle
Since 2022, the Office of Justice Programs has invested nearly $275 million in community violence intervention strategies and related research and training and technical assistance to disrupt the cycle of trauma and victimization and address gun violence in America.
These investments come as part of the Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative, the landmark grant program jointly administered by OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime and National Institute of Justice.
Through CVIPI, OJP is also investing in intermediary organizations that deliver microgrants and hands-on support to smaller grassroots organizations that provide lifesaving services to their local communities and neighborhoods. These intermediary grantees – such as the Center for Children & Youth Justice in Seattle – are building the capacity of smaller nonprofits that might otherwise face barriers to accessing federal support.
A nonprofit dedicated to improving outcomes for youth and children who are or may be impacted by Washington state’s juvenile justice and child welfare systems, CCYJ uses data-driven research and best practices to develop innovative, creative and sustainable solutions to gaps within these systems and to identify other opportunities for systems reform. As a CVIPI intermediary funded by OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, CCYJ is bridging the gap to federal resources and providing funding and training and technical assistance to four Washington area nonprofits. The organization also receives funding from OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to support direct services.
The Black Rose Collective
Comprised of community organizers and support specialists, the Black Rose Collective supports community members who are incarcerated, have been impacted by gun violence and are reentering the community post-incarceration. Placing a priority on healing, the Black Rose Collective aims to create an environment where community members can thrive while overcoming the trauma that stems from violence and inequity.
Freedom Project
As a community-centered and culturally responsive organization, Freedom Project works to serve communities that have been adversely impacted by incarceration. By meeting each individual’s direct needs, the organization focuses on helping them and their loved ones work through the negative impact and effect incarceration had on their lives through the use of evidence-based practices.
Urban Family
With a focus on youth mentorship, family support and community safety, Urban Family is effecting change in neighborhoods throughout King County. The organization provides mentorship and programs that focus on weaving a web of care and support around historically marginalized and underserved communities, ensuring they are “Safe, Connected and Cared for.” Urban Family uniquely works alongside community leaders, nonprofit organizations, schools and government officials to bring CVI best practices into their work in order to enact change throughout Seattle.
Pro Se Potential
Pro Se Potential is a nonprofit that focuses on addressing the needs of youth in the King County community. The organization offers programs that reward academic accomplishments and assist youth who have come in contact with the juvenile justice system. It also provides mentorship to empower youth and mold them into bold and proactive leaders.