In 2010 NCGV, in partnership with Durham Parks and Recreation, will host our first Skills Camps. NCGV's Skills Camp will give 18 at-risk kids an opportunity to learn outdoors skills along with our proven gang violence prevention programming. The attending youth will have a chance to enjoy hiking, camping, horseback riding and other activities. Additionally they will learn important information on caring for the environment. For many of our youth this will be their first chance to experience the outdoors.

Good News:The 2008 NC Child Health Assessment and Monitoring Program (CHAMP) found that safe storage of weapons in homes with children has improved in the last few years. According to the CHAMP results 57% of parents reporting keeping guns unlocked and unloaded.

Unfortunately as recent child accidental shooting deaths show more educational efforts are needed. Of the remaining parents polled 8% reported keeping weapons unlocked and loaded and 35% reported storing weapon either unlocked or loaded.

NCGV sponsored its first essay contest for teenagers in Western North Carolina in October. To coincide with Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the essay prompt asked teens to discuss the meaning of respectful relationships.

NCGV selected two winners, Jessica Craig, age 14 from Enka High, and Lennon Medvick, age 15, who is homeschooled. Craig and Medvick both presented mature expository writing skills which demonstrated clear and organized thought with valuable insight. They will each receive a cash prize. Please follow the links below to read their submissions.

Please honor the legacy of those who have tragically lost their lives in the Fort Hood shootings. This online memorial is a place where we invite you to share messages of support and reflections in this time of loss.