News Summary
Newport News is launching the Youth Thrive mobile app, aimed at enhancing safety and connection among youth during National Teen Violence Prevention Week. The app provides a centralized platform for families to access vital resources. Features include GPS navigation, event calendars, and push notifications for easy community engagement. This initiative, part of a broader $500 million investment in youth programs, aims to empower young people and foster a safer environment.
Newport News is launching the Youth Thrive mobile app on Monday, which aims to enhance safety and connection among young people during National Teen Violence Prevention Week. The initiative, which runs from April 28 to May 2, is designed to provide families with a centralized platform to access programs and resources within the city, fostering a safer environment for youth.
The app includes features such as GPS navigation, a calendar of community events, and push notifications, allowing users to easily engage with local activities. Designed to mirror popular social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the app supports seamless connectivity for young users as they access vital resources.
Newport News has expanded its efforts throughout the week to support youth and their families, promoting community safety, raising awareness about violence, and fostering stronger community relationships. Mayor Phillip Jones emphasizes the need for continuous investment in youth as a cornerstone for building a robust future. The importance of empowering young people to become leaders and change-makers is underscored in this initiative.
As part of a more extensive strategy to strengthen support for the youth, Newport News unveiled a $500 million youth initiative program named Youth T.H.R.I.V.E. in May 2024. This initiative focuses on enhancing empowerment opportunities and financial investments in programs that cater to the needs of young residents. Funding for this initiative is derived from existing budgets and investments aimed at community development.
Synethia White, the city’s community violence prevention manager, coordinated the various events for National Teen Violence Prevention Week, emphasizing the need to connect youth with constructive opportunities. Events are planned, including workshops and community gatherings, designed to educate and engage young people and their families.
Nearby Hampton City is also participating in youth empowerment initiatives with unique activities like the “Hopeful Hampton” events and a “Hope Fest” aimed at middle and high school students. Both cities recognize the necessity of providing positive avenues to deter youth violence and promote overall well-being within their communities.
The escalation of youth violence has become a significant concern, highlighted by the recent murder of Justice Dunham, a Newport News teen, who was tragically shot during an altercation at Menchville High School in 2021. In memory of Justice, his family held a walk to advocate against gun violence, striving to keep his legacy alive. The need for supportive structures reflects the community’s commitment to preventing further tragedies.
Moreover, Newport News experienced a recent shooting incident involving a 17-year-old student, raising alarms about the ongoing trend of violence among local youth. The urgency of establishing safe spaces for young individuals to thrive in their communities remains critical, as indicated by recent discussions among city officials.
Overall, the launch of the Youth Thrive app and the various programs planned during National Teen Violence Prevention Week represents a concerted effort by Newport News to address the pressing needs of its youth. The dual approach of utilizing technology through the app and organizing community-centered events signifies a holistic strategy to foster a safe and supportive environment for the city’s younger residents.
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Google Search: Newport News youth violence prevention
- Wavy News
- Wikipedia: Youth violence
- WTKR News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Violence
- Pilot Online
- Google News: Gun violence in Newport News
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