
Building a Future of Safe & Thriving Communities
Our work centers a forward-looking, affirmative vision of youth and community safety that will end gun violence, enhance equity, help youth thrive, and reduce reliance on policing and punishment systems.

Space, place, & safety: How “built design” investments into communities influence public safety
Extensive research shows that the “built design” or structure of community spaces significantly impacts community safety.
Read MoreReimagining survivor safety: An alternative response to domestic violence
An alternative approach to domestic violence requires policy responses that support survivors at every step.
Read MoreCriminalizing Homelessness Can Lead to More Crime
As cities step up their enforcement efforts in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling, they should consider both the financial costs and the public safety ramifications of treating homelessness as a crime.
Read MoreGetting smart on safety: Evidence on non-carceral investments that work to prevent violence and harm
This brief presents a short overview of the major programs and community investments that most effectively prevent violence and crime.
Read MoreSafe Places & Safe Sleeping: Cost-Effective and Humane Recommendations for Local Leaders after Grants Pass
The recent Grants Pass decision runs the risk of further intertwining municipal homelessness policy with punitive enforcement, a move that could make both homelessness and crime worse nationwide.
Read More



Our youth need programs that work — programs that not only prevent violence, but also provide purpose, fulfillment, leadership skills, and pathways to economic mobility. Next Congress, The PLAY Act will offer exactly these solutions.
The Community Safety Working Group is a coalition of more than 100 organizations dedicated to building safety that works for all communities.
In 2025, the Futures Policy Agenda is being condensed into a federal Futures Agenda for Youth Safety & Thriving, which will be a legislative agenda that consists of nine bills.