Empowering Youth Through Skill-Building: A Community's Holistic Approach to Combating Violence

In the face of rising youth violence, a community organization in Columbus, Ohio, is taking a proactive approach to create meaningful opportunities for young people. The Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children (MOMCC) have received 5,000 from the city to fund their youth programming, which aims to equip participants with practical skills and empower them to pursue alternative paths to a brighter future.

Transforming Tragedy into Triumph: MOMCC's Holistic Approach to Youth Development

Addressing the Root Causes of Youth Violence

The alarming statistics reveal a troubling trend – 18 of this year's homicide victims in Columbus were 21 years or younger, and 22 homicide suspects fall within the same age range. These numbers have spurred community organizations like MOMCC to take action, recognizing the urgent need to provide young people with positive alternatives and opportunities to break the cycle of violence.MOMCC's founder, Malissa Thomas-St. Clair, emphasizes the importance of data-driven programming, stating, "We used data to really drive how we are doing our programming. The time frames. We strategically have time frames through the hotspots where youth have been involved in gun violence." This strategic approach ensures that their initiatives are tailored to address the specific challenges faced by the community.

Empowering Youth with Practical Skills

At the heart of MOMCC's youth programming is a focus on equipping participants with practical, real-life skills that can serve them well in future careers. Through initiatives like "Trendy Trades," the organization is teaching kids valuable skills in construction, automotive repair, and other trades.As Malissa Thomas-St. Clair explains, "We have to go back to trades. Not everyone is suited for college, and that is OK. Instead of making them feel inferior, we need to empower them about so many things they can do in this world without having to go to the higher level of education."This approach recognizes the diverse talents and aspirations of young people, providing them with the tools and confidence to pursue meaningful paths that align with their interests and abilities. By fostering a sense of empowerment and self-worth, MOMCC aims to steer youth away from the lure of violence and towards a brighter future.

Fostering Community Connections and Healing

The impact of youth violence extends far beyond the individual victims, often leaving deep scars within families and communities. MOMCC understands this reality all too well, as evidenced by the personal experiences of its members.Deshjauna Jones, a youth member of MOMCC, shares the pain her family has endured after the loss of her uncle to gun violence. "To see my mom and dad cry when birthdays and memorials come up — it is kind of hard," she reflects, underscoring the profound and lasting effects of such tragedies.MOMCC's programs not only equip young people with practical skills but also provide a supportive community where they can find solace, healing, and a sense of belonging. By fostering these connections, the organization aims to create a ripple effect of positivity and resilience that can help break the cycle of violence.

Expanding Opportunities and Empowering the Next Generation

The 5,000 grant from the city of Columbus has enabled MOMCC to significantly expand its youth programming, reaching an estimated 100 participants over the next five weeks. This investment in the community's young people represents a crucial step towards a more hopeful and prosperous future.As Kendal Coleman, who is involved with the organization, observes, "I just keep up with the news and hear about some of the terrible things that happen with a lot of young youth getting killed and murdered." This sobering reality underscores the urgency of MOMCC's mission and the vital role it plays in providing young people with alternatives to violence.Deshjauna Jones, a participant in the program, eloquently captures the transformative impact of MOMCC's initiatives, stating, "I think more kids should join it and stay out of trouble because it helps you stay busy and stop the violence." This sentiment speaks to the power of meaningful engagement, skill-building, and community support in shaping the trajectories of young lives.As the city of Columbus and its community organizations continue to grapple with the complex challenges of youth violence, the Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children stand as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative potential of a holistic, empowerment-driven approach to youth development.