Operate Akron Street Team Pilot
Description
Pilot the Akron Street Team program, which places credible messengers - community members with lived experience - in contact with individuals at risk of engaging in violence, building mentoring relationships to interrupt and prevent future violence.
Why is This Important
People are most likely to change course when someone they trust shows up for them. Credible messengers build real relationships that can redirect lives and reduce gun violence in Akron's neighborhoods.
Initiative Wins
Launched the Street Team in January 2025 in partnership with Minority Behavioral Health Group (MBHG) comprised of 1 full-time and 2 part-time credible messengers actively engaging with at-risk individuals.
Impact Spotlight
What We’ve Done This Quarter
Maintained the Street Team pilot program.
What We’re Working on Next Quarter
Sustaining the pilot program through June 2026.
Evaluating the pilot in partnership with Drinkard Enterprise and the University of Akron, with a final report expected June 2026.