Lorain County Urban League Wants to Stop the Violence

ELYRIA (Dec. 5, 20230 - The Lorain County Urban League (Elyria, OH) wants to stop the violence.

Marking a significant step in the community's efforts to address and prevent violence, the Urban League will begin its violence intervention efforts this coming January.

The Urban League’s Angela Lee shared that they have recruited three violence interrupters and a social outreach worker, with plans to commence training soon and actively engage with the community at the start of the new year.

The impact of collaborative efforts is evident, as Elyria Police Lt. Brandon Pool highlighted the community's contribution to reducing violent crime. In 2023, the city witnessed a decrease in homicides and weapons offenses compared to the previous year, indicating progress in crime reduction strategies. These positive outcomes reflect the collective efforts fostered through initiatives like the Serving Our Streets meetings, which began in 2021 under Mayor Frank Whitfield's administration to preemptively address community issues and violence, particularly during summer.

The Urban League's forthcoming violence interrupters program stems from discussions held during these sessions, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping vital programs.

Mayor Whitfield stressed the need for ongoing accountability and collaboration across administrations, ensuring continuity in addressing community concerns.

“The purpose of this is to really be a think tank and a place of accountability,” said Whitfield.

Ahead of the incoming Mayor Kevin Brubaker's tenure, efforts will continue, with plans for a midnight basketball game tailored for teens and young adults, an idea generated from these monthly roundtable conversations.

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