Public Safety Village
In response to escalating violence locally, POIC + RAHS is launching the Public Safety Village (The Village) during summer 2021. Through the Village, POIC + RAHS is activating and supporting a group of 11 grassroots, Black-led organizations led by individuals who have been impacted by or involved in Community violence in the past. As a result, nonprofits will expand their ability to provide important engagement services for youth and families while participating in personal restorative justice; these messengers once brought harm to the community and are now dedicated to healing it.
The Village will provide direct services to Portland youth while each organization participates in training (focused on fundraising, marketing, etc.) to help ensure their longevity. In addition, participating organizations will fill local gaps in violence intervention services by providing cognitive behavioral therapy, conflict resolution, recreation opportunities, youth grief/loss support groups, decision-making skill-building, and more.
Public Safety Village will have a direct, immediate effect on community violence in Portland. This effort has already garnered generous support from Multnomah Countyβs Community Justice Department, the City of Portlandβs Office of Violence Prevention, and The Oregon Community Foundation.
