Gun Violence as a Public Health Issue: Evaluating the Interventions of KC Mothers in Charge
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Background: Each year, 38,000 individuals die due to gun violence in the United States. Gun violence affects morbidity and mortality as one of the leading causes of death. In 2020, Missouri experienced the deadliest year for gun violence. There is a multitude of consequences that arise due to gun violence that adversely affect the victim’s family including financial, physical, and mental hardships. Kansas City Mothers in Charge was established in 2013 to alleviate the difficulties faced by those who have been harmed by violence and prevent others from experiencing the tragedy of homicide. Objective: It is unclear the impacts that the support and educational services of KC Mothers in Charge have had on participants. This study intends to examine the effects of the Why Are We So Angry? (WAWSA) initiative and the prison outreach on the target audiences. Methods: The measurement tool that was utilized in the first study assessing the neighborhood-based violence prevention program (WAWSA) was a survey administered at the block party that concluded the program. The surveys from the prison outreach presentations between 2018 and 2019 were used to evaluate participants’ perspectives and identify themes. Results: The WAWSA survey revealed that many of the residents’ needs were met, however, there is a need for greater program awareness and an emphasis on conflict resolution to ensure residents feel equipped to respond to violence in their neighborhood. The 9 themes identified from the prison outreach survey include thought-provoking, realness, touching, concern, inspiration, relatability, strength, nothing, and appreciation. Conclusion: Findings from this study illustrate the meaningful impact of community needs-centered intervention as well as sharing the realities of violence to offenders. Further program evaluation is needed to continue having the desired impact and ultimately reduce violence and promote safety.