The Network

Overview

 

The National Network for Safe Communities is an alliance of cities dedicated to advancing proven strategies to combat violent crime, reduce incarceration and rebuild relations between law enforcement and distressed communities. It brings together police chiefs, prosecutors, community leaders, service providers, mayors, street workers, scholars and others concerned about the impact of crime and current crime polices on communities.

The National Network for Safe Communities believes:

  • The levels of violence in America are unacceptable
  • The realities of drug markets are unacceptable
  • The tension between police and minority communities is unacceptable
  • The levels of incarceration in America are unacceptable

The primary purpose of the Network is to support jurisdictions around the country in implementing two highly effective crime reduction strategies – the group violence strategy first launched in Boston, Massachusetts, and the drug market strategy first launched in High Point, North Carolina.

The National Network is designed to support its members by creating a national community of practice, raising the visibility of its members’ work, offering them technical support, recognizing and helping others learn from their innovations, supporting peer exchange and education, and conducting research and evaluations. It will be guided by the Leadership Group , a smaller group of jurisdictions that will convene teams regularly to address the core issues of the Network’s mission.

Click here to listen to Co-Chair David Kennedy provide an overview of the National Network's mission and work.