By Cynthia Ricks-Maccotan

Community Integration Program Manager, St. Francis Hospital

Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC), Zero Youth Detention Program (ZYD) was asked to oversee the strategic development of a tailored, unique approach to reduce and eliminate gun violence across the region.

Stakeholders and partners are working collaboratively, across sectors, to effectively improve the lived experiences and outcomes of Black and brown youth and young adult males, ages 12-25.

Research shows this demographic is disproportionately impacted by unjust conditions, overexposure to violence, and the legal system.

The Community Safety Workgroup (one of five workgroups) is seeking input from young people, community members, and others throughout King County in order to inform their recommendations.

If you would like to provide comments about your experiences related to safety and well-being in King County, you can access the survey here.

Please feel free to distribute the survey, especially to young people across the county. You can read more about the ZYD Regional Community Safety and Well-Being Plan here.

With questions, please feel free to reach out to co-facilitators Katoya Palmer (katoya@toyboxconsulting.net) or Tiarra Dearbone (tiarra.dearbone@defender.org).