Youth Violence Prevention

Mission

An equitable and united county where all youth are engaged in family, school and community, have a sense of safety and wellbeing, feel they have a voice and are empowered to use it, and are able to access opportunities for successful transition into adulthood.

What Is The Youth Violence Prevention Taskforce (YVPT)?

Over 60 members representing relevant sectors such as schools, law enforcement, government, youth, community volunteers and program service providers develop a county-wide strategic planning process and is a project of the Santa Cruz County Criminal Justice Council. Formed in December 2012, the task force completed the first Santa Cruz County Status on Youth Violence, tracking assets and needs related to youth violence. The report represents over 200 stakeholders and presents local data on over 60 indicators that are known risks and protective factors for youth violence. Administrative support is provided by United Way of Santa Cruz County, Applied Survey Research and Santa Cruz County Probation. Click here to see how our work is making a difference!

Goals

Reduce youth violence in Santa Cruz County by addressing critical issues in the following focus areas:

Ensure supported and functioning families
Foster safe and vibrant neighborhoods
Promote positive youth development
Increase program and system effectiveness
Commuity Engagement

Workgroups have been formed to research data and results on the following focus areas:

Ensure supported & functional families: Family Engagement; Family Support; Emotional Health; Parenting Skills
Foster safe & vibrant neighborhoods: Alcohol and Drugs; Crime; Safety at School; Juvenile Hall Arrest and Probation; Gangs
Promote positive child & youth development: Youth Assets; HIgh School Graduation; Youth Employment; and School Attendance