Violence is a complex issue that demands a coordinated network of systems, policies, programs and people that work together to promote the best practices for violence prevention.  This proposed program, “Financial Literacy - Anti-Violence Tool”, offers a timely action plan that coordinates, supports and strengthens a wide range of violence prevention and awareness efforts with financial literacy as a focal point.

The goal of our program is to address problems before violence occurs. This is called primary prevention and emphasizes community-wide outcomes and addresses all forms of violence across all ages and communities. Financial literacy is a very important tool in helping youth and families become better able to make informed judgments and to make effective decisions regarding the use and management of money and how this impacts our daily lives. In the long run these youth and families will be better equipped to navigate the ever demanding economic dynamics of our society.

Stop the Violence Coalition, Inc., (STVC), plans to meet the financial literacy needs of our exiting partner groups in New Castle County, Delaware. We will add a financial literacy component to all STVC programs now being offered. Our programs are designed to reach all segments of the community, with special emphasis on low to moderate income youth, parents, and minorities. We currently offer 5 programs.  These programs are offered to all partner agencies and community organizations at no cost. 

Overall Goal of STVC Programs:

The goal of STVC programs is to help youth and families become better equipped to make choices that are violence-free and life edifying.

Objectives:
 

1. To offer mentoring, parenting, and intervention programs aimed at improving the life-coping and decision making skills of youth and families.

2. To engage 20,000 youth and parents in STVC programs and events.

3. To engage 100 single parents in creative parenting, financial literacy and anti-violence sessions.

4. To engage 100 girls, ages 10-16 in a character development and financial literacy program.

5. To promote financial literacy as a component of all STVC programs.

6. To cultivate active partnerships with at least 6 community agencies.

7. To present a major anti-violence conference with a financial literacy theme.

 

OUR EXPERIENCE:

Stop the Violence Coalition, Inc., was founded in 2001, as a result of the horrific barbershop shootings of 5 year old Damon Gist, Jr. and 21 year old Darnell Evans.  Our mission is to re-create a safe community by promoting respect and positive values. In an effort to promote an anti-violence climate in the community, the Coalition initiated a holistic at risk-youth mentoring and violence prevention program. The program serves youth and their families, in as educational, motivational and recreational environment. The program focuses on the eradication of behavior and conditions that promote delinquency and leads to violence. To date we have served over 50,000 youth and families.

Our programs help youth and families develop positive attitudes and behaviors that serve them well in school, on the streets, and in society.  Although, STVC was born out of a tragic, violent occurrence, the mission of pursuing peace in our community continues to be the central focus of the work we do. If one life is changed, empowered or spared through our programs, special events and conferences, then our labor is not in vain.

Program Leadership:

Nichole Torrence
Program and Special Events
City of Wilmington Youth and Family Services Administrator

Joyce Powell
Finance Officer
Co-owner of Powell Insurance Agency

Dr. Jay Macklin
Executive Director (11 years)
Former VP Banker, Business Developer, City Planner, Educator, Money School Instructor