Office of Violence Prevention

About OVP

The Columbus Office of Violence Prevention was established in 2023 as a result of Mayor Ginther declaring gun violence a public health crisis. The office is the main coordinating body for violence prevention initiatives and activities operated or sponsored by the City of Columbus. OVP staff work together with community and city-funded organizations to assist in establishing Columbus as the safest big city in the country.

The function and responsibilities of OVP include but certainly are not limited to: Collecting data through surveys and community forums; assessing current programs and their targeted populations; measuring program outcomes; researching and implementing data-based best practices; educating the public; convening thought leaders, making policy recommendations; and amplifying community voices to combat and reduce violence. 

Mission

The Columbus Office of Violence Prevention empowers residents to embrace safety and well-being by strategically reducing violence through a collaborative, community-driven, public health approach. 

Guiding Principles

Equity
Every life matters, and everyone deserves to live in a safe neighborhood.

Foundation
Significant and sustainable violence reduction is only possible when system issues driving violence are addressed.

Community
The community comes first, always. We empower those who are working toward community solutions to community violence. We proactively communicate our intentions and plans, and our work is continuously shaped by community input.

Investment
Proper distribution of resources is necessary for violence reduction initiatives to provide impactful and measurable results. 

Collaboration
Everyone has a role to play in creating public safety. We create significant, lasting, change when we work together. 

Evidence
Our work is informed by data and best practices, and we continuously use data and evaluation to strengthen our efforts.