What the org has to say: “The mission of the Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia (AVP) is to reduce the entire cycle of violence by providing a wide range of services from support and counseling for victims and their families to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of violence. We provide comprehensive and collaborative programs throughout Philadelphia in schools, social service agencies, the courts, and at community sites.”

What we found: The Partnership monitors changes in the community so its offerings better suit the needs of the people who seek it out. For example, the organization noticed that many of its clients were dealing with a level of re-victimization it hadn’t seen before, as well as the heavy impact on the entire family, so the staff has shifted its practices to address these issues. When responding to police brutality, AVP staffers recognized that they had to react to the level of violence instead of the label placed on the crime, because asking police to investigate the interests of other law enforcement can create conflicts of interest. You can partake in the organization’s support groups online or in-person.

What the organization has to say:

“Imani Starr Development provides a safe place for West Philadelphia students and young adults to actively engage in leisure activities while simultaneously educating them about the importance of community and civic engagement. Programming and activities are youth driven, and mentors are professionals with skillsets from various professions, creating the opportunity for career guidance. We have to stop saying parents don’t care. Sometimes parents don’t know what to do, where to go or how to get certain things done. We’re here to help.”

What we found out:

Imani Star Development offers year-round programs for young people ages 14-24. Students can take free classes in acting, podcasting, photography, videography, sewing and tailoring, fashion design, music, and drone piloting. New initiatives include a combined fashion program with tailoring and styling components for young men. All classes emphasize emotional management and positive behavior intervention strategies. The programs run consecutively, with each lasting four to five weeks, culminating in either a final performance or student-led project and certificate ceremony. Walk-ins are welcomed. Imani also offers field trips, snacks, supper, and mentorship opportunities.

What the org has to say: “YEAH works to create safe and authentic hangout spaces by providing culturally relevant engagement and implementing teen led interventions to address the root causes of violence. Utilizing teen action, YEAH works to interrupt the cycle of youth community violence in West and Southwest Philadelphia neighborhoods through peer led mediation and conflict resolution, community engagement, and economic opportunities.”

What we found: YEAH Philly teaches kids conflict resolution and provides safe spaces, food, cash support for bills, and assistance finding jobs, all in an effort to help them stay safe and break the cycle of trauma in West and Southwest Philadelphia. The organization focuses especially on teens and young adults who have been labeled violent or at-risk, offering court advocacy, case management, and skill-building services for young people exiting the Juvenile Justice Center.