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MYGuard Initiative: Taking Action Against Gun Violence

Keeping Our Youth Safe & Our Communities Strong

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Gun violence is hitting our communities hard, and youth are at the center of it. In 2024, Phoenix saw a 76% spike in juvenile violent crimes, including homicide, robbery, and weapons charges. Schools in Maricopa County deal with over 500 gun-related threats every year—that’s a crisis we can’t ignore.

That’s why we’re here. The MYGuard Initiative is about mentorship, crisis intervention, and giving young people the tools to make positive choices—because safety isn’t just about avoiding violence, it’s about having real support and opportunities.

What We Do

• Mentorship that Matters: Having someone in your corner makes all the difference. We connect youth with mentors who actually care, offering guidance, life skills, and support.

• Crisis Intervention & Support: If things go south, we step in. We’re here for immediate help, whether it’s conflict resolution, de-escalation, or just someone to talk to.

• Gun Safety & Violence Prevention: Workshops and training that break down the realities of gun violence and teach smarter, safer decision-making.

• Leadership & Advocacy: We help young people find their voice, take charge, and become leaders in their own communities.

• Conflict Resolution: Because handling problems the right way can change everything.

Working with Schools & Community Partners

We don’t just sit back and hope for change. We bring this work directly into schools and community organizations, making sure young people have access to the right resources, support, and mentorship.

• In-School Workshops: Violence prevention, conflict resolution, leadership training—you name it.

• After-School Programs: A safe space where youth can learn, grow, and connect with mentors.

• Community Outreach: We partner with local groups to get real solutions in place and reach as many people as possible.

Why This Matters

• In 2021, every single child who died from gun violence in Maricopa County had access to an unsecured firearm.

• In 2022, 5.9% of students admitted to bringing a weapon to school in the past month.

• 1,015 juveniles in Arizona were arrested for violent crimes in 2020 alone.

• 1,746 cases of youth-involved assault, domestic violence, and other offenses were reported in Maricopa County in 2023.

• Teen violence in the East Valley is rising fast, and law enforcement is scrambling for solutions.

Numbers don’t lie. We have to step up.

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Other Offerings

Confidence Bags: Because Everyone Deserves the Basics

We know that showing up as your best self isn’t just about avoiding violence—it’s about having what you need to feel confident and cared for. That’s why we provide Confidence Bags with:

• Hygiene Products – Because feeling fresh matters.

• Period Care Kits – No one should have to struggle to get the basics.

• Safe Sex Kits – Resources to make informed, responsible choices.

• Clothing Closet – Fresh fits for school, work, and everyday life.

This is about dignity, accessibility, and making sure no one gets left behind.

Let’s Make a Difference—Together

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We’re not here to sit on the sidelines. We’re here to take action—to create safer communities, to support young people, and to fight back against the violence that’s taking too many lives. If you or someone you know needs help, or if you want to be part of the solution, reach out.

 

Available during all open hours: Monday-Friday, 10 AM - 6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM - 1 PM

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Crisis Intervention: Immediate crisis support and intervention for youth in need. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 602-600-5463 for immediate assistance.