Columbia’s New Push to Engage Teens and Reduce Crime
In Columbia, South Carolina, there’s a growing sense of urgency as city officials work to tackle the increasing distressing trend of teens getting involved in criminal activities. It’s something that has been troubling the community for years, and now leaders are stepping up to create proactive solutions aimed at *connecting with young people* before they find themselves on a dangerous path.
A prime example of this issue comes from mothers like Ashley Leaphart, who knows the pain that gun violence can inflict all too well. Leaphart lost her daughter, Jamaica Dowling, in 2022 due to a senseless act during a party at a Columbia apartment. The situation escalated from a verbal argument to a heartbreaking scene of gunfire, ultimately leading to a tragic ending for the 20-year-old. Young individuals have been charged in this heart-wrenching case, and it leaves Leaphart questioning why kids are resorting to violence instead of reaching out for support from their families.
Finding Positive Outlets
“It’s not worth it. You’re ruining lives out here, and it’s just not worth it,” Leaphart emphasizes as she reflects on the numerous young lives touched by violence. She pointed out the importance of encouraging kids to confide in their parents about the peer pressures they face today. “These children are basically trying to find an outlet, but they’re looking for an outlet in the wrong places,” she said.
In response to these challenges, the City of Columbia has revamped its approach to curb violence among youth. Previously known as the Office of Violent Crime Prevention, the newly named Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement recognizes that effective crime prevention means engaging directly with the community. Dr. Trevon Fordham, the director of this office, shared significant insights on the shifting landscape of crime.
Understanding the Age Shift
“The national age range for at-risk individuals used to be about 17 to 24 years old. That has now shifted dramatically from ages 10 to 45,” notes Fordham. He clarified that in Columbia, the local statistics reflect an at-risk age range of 17 to 41. This emphasizes the urgent need for tailored programs aimed at younger individuals as well.
“A key for our office is really focusing on those preventative pieces,” Fordham explained. “What are the root causes of violent crime, and how can we address those to create safer communities?” This proactive approach is a refreshing change in narrative, shifting focus from merely reacting to crime to actively preventing it before it begins.
Initiatives and Community Involvement
According to Dr. Fordham, the city has developed a variety of initiatives and programs designed to engage community members. Just by getting involved, residents can help shape a safer neighborhood that they want to see. He expressed a vision of communal harmony where people can find joy in simple activities—such as sitting on their porch or walking their dog—without fear.
“It’s crucial for residents to collaborate with their neighbors,” Fordham added. “They can access doors and homes that sometimes we can’t as the city.” This kind of neighborly connection forms the backbone of the solutions Columbia is striving for.
Hope for the Future
As Columbia embarks on this new quest for community engagement, it’s clear that creating safe environments for young people will require *togetherness and proactive dialogues*. This initiative reminds everyone that every small effort counts, and by working together, Columbia can foster a brighter future for its youth. If you’re a resident, joining hands with your neighbors could be the key to change.
