Office of Violence Prevention
Mission
The Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) collaborates to significantly reduce gun and gang violence within the city of Stockton, utilizing data-driven strategies and community partnerships.
Vision
OVP strives to empower the community of Stockton to thrive in a safe and healthy environment, through hope, healing, and opportunity.
Building Client Capacity Through Community Connections
- Employment placement
- Housing Assistance
- Family Counseling
- Social Services
- Mental Health Education
- Clothing Assistance
- Mentoring
- Life Coaches
Peacekeepers
Collaborating with other community based, faith-based, and Stockton agencies is a critical aspect of addressing gang and gun violence. By working together, we can combine resources and expertise to effectively address the root causes of these issues and implement solutions that benefit the entire community.Peacekeepers are trained in conflict resolution, mediation, mentoring, case management, and trauma-informed practice which are necessary to effectively support these individuals while addressing their unique needs.
Collaborating with high-risk individuals to provide alternative to gun and gang violence is a proactive approach that can help prevent violence before it occurs.
Responding quickly to incidents of gun violence and connecting families to victim services is also crucial for reducing the likelihood of retaliation and promoting healing in the community.
Our Home
OVP is deeply committed to building strong connections with individuals who are at the highest risk of being harmed by a gang or gun violence. By connecting with clients in their homes, schools, communities, and at the Office of Violence Prevention we can better understand the specific challenges they are facing and develop tailored solutions to address their unique needs.
Connecting with high-risk individuals can prevent future violence by providing a supportive network and a sense of belonging.
By fostering a sense of community and promoting positive relationships, individuals may be less likely to resort to violence as a means of protection or survival.
Overall, OVP's efforts to address the root causes of gang involvement and gun violence in Stockton has made a positive impact on the lives of our clients and in our community.
We believe all people can grow and change.
If you or anyone you know is dealing with gun or gang violence, please contact us at (209) 937-8880 or email us at ovp@stocktonca.gov
Since 1998, Operation Peacekeeper has been instrumental in local initiatives aimed at diminishing gang and group-related homicides. In 2013, the program underwent a transformation and evolved into what is currently recognized as The Office of Violence Prevention. Under the leadership of Director Lora M. Larson, MSW, the initiative has developed into a comprehensive strategy. In its current form, the program not only provides life coaching but also offers resource support to its clients.
The Office of Violence Prevention receives funding from both the General Fund and Measure A. The General Fund allocates $880,000, facilitating the employment of four Peacekeepers, one Supervisor, and one Data Analyst. Additionally, Measure A contributes $1.3 million, enabling the hiring of six more Peacekeepers, one Supervisor, one Admin Aide, one Director, and one Program Manager. Apart from staffing, OVP utilizes these resources to offer conflict resolution, mediation, mentoring, case management services, and emergency relocation.
The primary focus of OVP is on individuals at the highest risk of becoming either perpetrators or victims of gun violence. Outreach Workers also proactively engage in communities affected by violent crimes, reaching out to friends and families of victims to prevent potential retaliatory actions.
To help support programs for at-risk, gang-oriented youth, please mail donations to:
City of Stockton
Attn: Office of Violence Prevention
425 N. El Dorado Street
Stockton, CA 95202
Tax I.D. is 94 6000 436
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