Journey Forward: Community-Based Crime Reduction Initiative

Building a Safer, Stronger Jacksonville – Together

What is Journey Forward?

The Jacksonville Journey Forward initiative is a community-driven effort designed to reduce violence, strengthen neighborhoods, and improve the overall quality of life in Jacksonville. Led by an 11-member Board of Directors, this initiative brings together public safety experts, education leaders, public health professionals, and community advocates to implement comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of crime.
 
By leveraging a multi-faceted, multi-agency approach, Journey Forward seeks to build a collaborative framework where government agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and residents work together to create lasting, positive change.

Why Journey Forward?

Jacksonville has a long history of efforts aimed at reducing crime and improving community well-being. The original Jacksonville Journey, launched in 2008, successfully implemented programs that addressed violent crime, youth intervention, and neighborhood stabilization. Now, Journey Forward builds upon those foundations while incorporating modern, data-driven strategies and increased community engagement to ensure long-term, sustainable progress.

Key Goals and Objectives

 Journey Forward is committed to long-term public safety and community well-being solutions through the following objectives:

• Expand community-based violence reduction programs in Duval County.
• Invest in youth mentorship, out-of-school programs, and job training.
• Increase access to mental health and substance abuse support services to address existing traumas and improve outcomes of community well-being.

• Improve neighborhood safety by enhancing lighting, revitalizing public spaces, and supporting community policing initiatives.
• Strengthen job training and workforce development programs to provide economic robust opportunities.
• Support housing stability through partnerships that improve affordable housing access and prevent displacement.

• Expand diversion programs that offer alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders.
• Enhance reentry services for ex-offenders to reduce recidivism.

• Empower local residents through expanded neighborhood meetings and town halls.
• Encourage participation in neighborhood resource groups and volunteer programs.
• Provide opportunities for citizens to share ideas, concerns, and solutions to improve community well-being.