Working Together Saves Live.
The Gun Safety & Violence Reduction Initiative is a collaborative effort led by Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO) to reduce firearm-related injuries and deaths in Springfield and across the Ozarks region. This initiative was born from community conversations, data-driven research, and the urgent need to address rising gun violence that impacts families, neighborhoods, and our shared future.
Our approach is rooted in community voices, prevention strategies, and evidence-based solutions. We believe that the people who live in the neighborhoods most affected by gun violence have the knowledge and power to drive change. Together, we are building safer communities for everyone.
Be Part of the Change!
Young people have always been at the forefront of social movements. Your voice matters, and there’s a lot you can do to help raise awareness, make a difference, and push for change in your community. When you take action, you inspire others to do the same—and that ripple effect can transform entire neighborhoods. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings us closer to building safer, stronger communities for everyone.
Our Goals
The Reality of Gun Violence
Gun violence is not just a statistic—it is families grieving, communities hurting, and futures cut short. In Springfield, the average number of gunshots per month continues to be a serious issue. We know that this is not just a law enforcement issue; it is a community issue. Together, we can break cycles of violence and create a safer, healthier place for all who call the Ozarks home. Here’s what you need to know:
Suicide and Guns
Many gun-related deaths are suicides, particularly among young people. Guns are often used because of their accessibility and lethality. This is a tragic, but important, issue that’s often overlooked in broader conversations about gun violence.
Gang Violence and Gun Access
In certain areas, access to guns contributes to gang violence, where young people are often caught in the middle. This kind of violence is rooted in a lack of opportunity, community resources, and sometimes, desperation.
Domestic Violence and Guns
In many cases, gun violence occurs in intimate settings—between partners, families, or friends. Guns can escalate situations, leading to preventable deaths and injuries.
Mass Shootings
These are events where multiple people are injured or killed in a single incident, often at schools, concerts, or workplaces. These high-profile cases get a lot of media attention and are terrifying for young people, especially those in school environments.
How Gun Violence Affects You
Witnessing or experiencing gun violence can have significant effects on your mental health. It’s important to recognize the emotional and psychological impact it can have on you, even if you weren’t directly involved.
School and Campus Safety
For many young people, the threat of school shootings or violence on college campuses is a reality they live with. It’s stressful, and it can affect your ability to focus on learning and enjoying life.
Psychological Effects
Even if you’re not personally involved, witnessing violence—whether in person, through social media, or the news—can have lasting effects on mental health. This can lead to trauma, fear, and difficulty coping.
Distrust in Public Spaces
Gun violence can create a sense of distrust, even in places where you should feel safe. Movie theaters, concerts, and even shopping malls have been sites of shootings, and this uncertainty can impact how you live your life.
Learn more about the importance of safe firearm storage as well as how to use cable locks and trigger locks on a wide variety of firearms. Learn more at www.cpozarks.org/safe
Get Involved: Ways To Take Action
Your voice matters. Whether you are a parent, youth, business leader, educator, or concerned neighbor, there is a role for you in this work. You can:
- Share Information with employer, friends, and neighbors
- Attend community meetings and forums
- Volunteer with violence prevention efforts
- Mentor a young person
- Help spread awareness about gun safety and safe storage
- Support CPO’s work with a donation
