In recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Week, the City of Columbia’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (OSNE) is partnering with Richland One schools and local community organizations to host a series of interactive, social-emotional learning workshops from April 21–26, 2025.
The weeklong initiative is part of a national effort to raise awareness and promote proactive solutions to reduce youth violence in schools and communities. Each day will feature engaging events and hands-on activities aimed at equipping students with the tools to build safer, more supportive environments through anti-bullying education, peer pressure management, mindfulness movement, conflict resolution, and positive decision-making.
“Our goal is to empower students with the tools to manage emotions, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build positive relationships,” said Kimberly Goethe, Program Assistant for OSNE. “Prevention starts with equipping young people with the right skills.”
Week of Activities
Monday, April 21 – The Office will kick off the week by wearing orange to bring awareness to National Youth Violence Prevention Week and encouraging community members to do the same. Participants are invited to use the hashtag #NYVPW when posting to social media.
Wednesday, April 23 –
Anti-Bullying Workshop will be held on Eau Claire Print Building, located at 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
In partnership with Kimestry Wellness LLC, OSNE will host a public Anti-Bullying Workshop. This session will teach students how to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying while promoting kindness and selfconfidence. Registration is required
Friday, April 25 – Community Development 50-Year Celebration will be held at 2300 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29201 from 12:00 p.m. – 3 {: } 0 0 \mathrm { p. m } .
OSNE will participate in the City of Columbia’s Community Development 50-Year
Celebration on Bull Street, hosting a vendor table with information, giveaways, and promotional materials supporting the “Choose Peace, Create Change” initiative.
Saturday, April 26
Artistic Expression Art Showcase will be held at Hyatt Park, located at 950 Jackson Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
In collaboration with P.E.A.C.E., OSNE will support the Artistic Expression Art Showcase. The event will include two sessions: handson artistic expression and a block dedicated to dance and mindful movement. OSNE will provide information and supplies to support the showcase and close out the week’s events.
