INDIANAPOLIS — The causes of youth violence are complicated, as are the efforts to stop it.
There are organizations across Indianapolis aiming to do just that: Keep young people safe and out of trouble.
Bloom Project Incorporated connects young people - and their families - with mentors.
After a weekend that saw a shooting in downtown Indianapolis that injured seven youth, Bloom Project held a gathering Monday for kids and their mentors to come together.
The founder of another organization, Purpose 4 My Pain, is calling on parents to be more involved.
"We need to be a bit more nosy, as parents. Check the atmosphere, talk with their parents, check social media. Be a little bit more involved with the parenting side of things," said Deandra Dycus.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE
There are a number of resources available for kids in Indianapolis which provide mentorship, job skills and other support.
Purpose 4 My Pain: Support services for victims and survivors, mentorship, and other programs.
Inner Beauty and New Breed of Youth: Mentorship & life coaching for youth
Stop the Violence Indy: Support for parents, youth coaching, violence intervention
Young Men Inc: Low-cost summer camp, workshops for youth
Marion County Youth Violence Prevention Coalition: organizations offering services to youth & families.
The Office of Public Health and Safety is currently looking for more programming to offer in its “Summer in the City 2024” initiative to reduce violence and teach teens skills. Organizations have until April 5, 2024 to submit questions. Submissions are due by the 12th.