ASAS New Jersey Enhancing School Capacity to Address Youth Violence

After-School All-Stars New Jersey (ASASNJ) is requesting funds to reduce violence and improve safety in the Newark communities surrounding 5 Title I school sites through after-school mentoring, SEL skill development and Arts exploration to 1000 students exposed violence. A high percentage of youth attending the partner schools are exposed to violence in their communities. Exposure to violence can limit children's potential, negatively affect their health, and increase their likelihood of becoming involved in the juvenile or criminal justice system. Youth Creators for Peace program goal is to support the development and expansion of strategies that increase school safety and promote a positive and supportive school climate by preventing and reducing school violence. ASASNJ will utilize a collaborative approach between 5 Newark, New Jersey Title One schools and ASASNJ to develop and implement strategies to create a supportive school climate by operating violence prevention and early intervention programs with youth and families. ASASNJ will spearhead a cross-sector network to offer a bridge between families and the identified schools to prevent and reduce violence. Expected improved outcomes include: High need youth provided support and resources to support mental health & build resilience; Improve youth’s relationship with peers and adults; Youth have a positive role model/support; Staff provided support and resources to support mental health and build resilience for youth in high violence areas of Newark; and, Increased community awareness and involvement in violence prevention.