New Youth Initiative Focuses on Reducing Violence, Crime

Columbia officials announced Tuesday a new initiative aimed at reducing youth violence and crime.

The initiative, 100 Days of Nonviolence, is a collaborative project between local government, neighborhoods, faith leaders and the business community, according to a release.

These groups have joined forces in order to reduce youth violence and crime by providing activities, programs and events for children during the summer months — a time officials said is when violent crimes are typically more common.

Mayor Steve Benjamin was joined Tuesday by Interim Columbia Police Chief Ruben Santiago, Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Caton and Columbia Urban League President J. T. McLawhorn in announcing the new project.

“Whether you are providing a summer job or internship opportunity, sponsoring a child at a summer camp, or volunteering your time to serve as a mentor; we want everyone to take part,” Benjamin said in the release. This is an opportunity to do some real good and make a true and lasting difference in our children’s lives.”

Programs include the Columbia Police Department's Operation RISK, a summer work enrichment program through the Columbia Urban League and more.

“We want to make a positive impact on children so they can avoid jail or a life on the streets. Parents, teachers, caregivers, anyone can call CPD and we will help,” Santiago said in the release.

The initiative will run until August 29. 

For more information, visit www.columbiasc.net/100days or call 803-545-4220.