Youth Violence & Firearm-Related Injuries in Muskegon County, Michigan
Youth violence and firearm-related injuries pose significant threats to the health and safety of children, families, and the broader community in Muskegon County, Michigan. However, a growing network of dedicated individuals and organizations is stepping up to create a safer future for our youth.
One of the key figures in this effort is Muskegon County Prosecutor DJ Hilson. I first met DJ several years ago when Dr. Chris Mattson and I, encouraged by Trinity Health Muskegon Injury Prevention Coordinator Holly Alway, presented our research on firearm-related injuries to the Muskegon Social Justice Commission. From that initial meeting and the discussions that followed, it became clear that healthcare could play a pivotal role in preventing these injuries.
Building Partnerships & Implementing SafERteens
Around this time, we connected with Dr. Patrick Carter from the Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Center (MI-YVPC). Dr. Carter was in the midst of preparing a 5-year grant proposal to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to further the work of MI-YVPC. DJ Hilson’s support was instrumental in demonstrating to Dr. Carter and the CDC our community’s commitment to providing Muskegon County youth with the tools and resources needed to reduce violence.
In May 2023, we launched SafERteens, an evidence-based youth violence prevention program, at Trinity Health Muskegon Emergency Room. Since then, we have expanded SafERteens to HealthWest and Muskegon Pediatrics. We are also planning to introduce the program at the Trinity Health Medical Group Academic Family Medicine Clinic in Fruitport, Michigan, later this year.
Broadcasting a Message of Hope
Recently, I had the privilege of joining DJ Hilson and station manager Rob (Big Rob) Roundtree on The DJ Hilson Show on community radio station 103.7 FM The Beat. During our hour-long conversation, we reflected on our journey so far, discussed the current state of youth and firearm injury prevention in Muskegon County, and shared some exciting updates about the future. Click here for the link to our conversation.
I want to extend my gratitude to DJ, Big Rob, and station owner Paul Billings for providing a platform to discuss this critical issue on public radio. I encourage you to listen to our conversation and consider joining us as we work towards the continued growth and sustainability of these vital programs.
Together, we can make a difference in preventing youth violence and creating a safer community for all.
Listen to the Conversation Now