February 10, 2026 |City of Lynn, City Services, Events, News, Public Safety

City of Lynn ramps up anti-violence efforts

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From Mayor Nicholson’s office: As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce violence, the city is hosting an event Wednesday, Feb. 11at 4 p.m. in the City Hall foyer. “Call to Action: Reducing Youth Violence in Lynn” will feature the launch of the Community Violence Prevention Plan, a comprehensive report that was developed in partnership with community partners and a social and collective impact consulting firm.

Also at the event Wednesday, the new Youth Safety & Opportunity Collaborative (Y-SOC) will be introduced. Launched by Mayor Jared Nicholson, this new leadership body is comprised of representatives of law enforcement, service providers, elected officials, educators, public health officials and others. 

The group, which met for the first time January 29, will work to implement the Violence Prevention Plan, improve communication among organizations conducting similar work, ensure its work is community-centered and evidence-based, and build a future where all youth can thrive.

“Over the last few years, we have worked hard to achieve a reduction in violence in our community, but we know there is still work to do,” Nicholson said. “The Community Violence Prevention Plan will provide a roadmap for continuing to make our city safer for all residents. We appreciate all those individuals and organizations who share this vision and support these critical efforts.”

The Youth Safety & Opportunity Collaborative is chaired by Antonio Gutierrez, of Lynn Youth Street Outreach & Advocacy (LYSOA) and includes Faustina Cuevas, the city’s Chief of Community Wellbeing and DEI. 

“As someone whose family has been directly impacted by youth violence, I am excited that we’re taking this step in the right direction to bring key partners together, with a clear and thoughtful vision to really tackle violence at its root,” Cuevas said. “I am encouraged by the enthusiasm that was shown at our first meeting.”

The City has embarked on other initiatives aimed at reducing youth violence by providing expanded opportunities. A Middle School Hub is held on Mondays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. at Breed Middle School offering activities, team-building games, supportive space and pizza. This summer, the city will again increase the number of summer jobs available for youth, adding 100.

The Call to Action Event is open to the public. Young people are especially encouraged to attend.