Seats remain available for the Danville Regional Youth Violence Intervention Conference, taking place on Thursday, Feb. 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research.

This free, day-long conference brings together educators, law enforcement, mental health professionals, community leaders, local organizations, and youth to explore the root causes of youth violence, share effective intervention strategies, and develop solutions for prevention and support.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Seats are still available, and community members are encouraged to register while space remains.

“Many people want to help but aren’t sure where they fit in,” said Robert David, violence prevention manager for the City of Danville and head of the city’s Project Imagine program. “This conference will show how everyone—whether a teacher, parent, community leader, or youth—can contribute to a safer future for our city.”

Key topics include:

• The importance of community collaboration – How educators, law enforcement, families, and community leaders can work together to prevent youth violence.
• Systemic barriers and policy solutions – Addressing the challenges of poverty, limited educational resources, and inadequate mental health access.
• Empowering youth leaders – The critical role of young voices in creating lasting change and reducing violence.

The conference is in collaboration with Averett University and will feature experts from across Virginia, including Lynchburg and Roanoke, as well as national voices from Texas speaking on topics such as parenting and intervention strategies. Vendors and presentations will highlight the many ways individuals can play a role in reducing violence—whether on the streets or in other meaningful ways within their community.

For more information, contact Robert David at robert.david@danvilleva.gov. To register, click here.