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Violence Prevention & Advocacy


988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Provides free, confidential support 24/7 to anyone in crisis or emotional distress. If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call the lifeline for help. A skilled, trained crisis worker will answer. This person will listen to you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful. Deaf/Hard of Hearing/ASL users can access the lifeline by going to the website and clicking “ASL Now.”
Always call 911 first for emergencies.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis: (888) 628-9454
Main Website: 988lifeline.org
Suicide Prevention Resource Center (for Professionals): sprc.org

Action Ohio Coalition for Battered Women

A primarily volunteer-based organization that serves domestic violence victims and their families through advocacy and referral services. Their website has information for teens and adults living in Ohio.
PO Box 423, Worthington, Ohio 43085
(614) 825-0551 or (888) 622-9315
actionohio.org

Additional Information About Bullying

The Kids Mental Health Foundation: Bullying Basics
kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org/mental-health-resources/bullying/bullying-basics

National Bullying Prevention Center
pacer.org/bullying/resources/info-facts.asp

Kids Health
kidshealth.org

Wrightslaw: Bullying & Harrasment Laws
wrightslaw.com/info/harassment.index.htm

SAMHSA: Take Action Against Bullying Guide
samhsa.gov

Safer Schools Ohio: Anti-Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Resources
saferschools.ohio.gov/content/anti_harassment_intimidation_and_bullying_resources

Ohio Juvenile Civil Protection Orders
supremecourtofohio.gov

Africentric Personal Development Shop (APDS)

Provides alcohol and drug treatment, licensed counseling, domestic violence education and intervention programs, and support services for families impacted by addiction. They also offer a summer camp, UCANN Serve and UCANN Lead programs for ages 11-17 to experience mentorship and civic engagement, Urban GEMS science and gardening after-school program for ages 12-19, and awards two scholarships per year for youth ages 17-22 pursuing higher education. The organization was founded by and centers the African community but serves all regardless of race, gender, disability, or economic status.
1409 East Livingstone Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-4448
apdsinc.org

ASHA Ray of Hope

Provides culturally-sensitive support, services, and advocacy for women and children facing domestic abuse, whose country of origin is Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka. Victims of domestic violence from all countries can call their 24/7 Help Line for support and referrals. Other services include crisis intervention, case management, court and legal advocacy, interpretation services, and a survivor support group.
4900 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
24/7 Helpline: (614) 565-2918
Office: (614) 326-2121
asharayofhope.org

Be The One Ohio

Their website provides sexual violence prevention resources, information and tools for teens and young adults.
Ohio Sexual Violence Helpline: (844) 644-64357
OAESV: oaesv.org/what-we-do/prevention/be-the-one

Blue Campaign

This national public awareness campaign is designed to educate the public, law enforcement and other industry partners on indicators of human trafficking and how to appropriately respond to possible cases. Blue Campaign works closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to increase detection of human trafficking and identify victims. Their website has helpful information on indicators of human trafficking and gender based violence, myths and misconceptions, how to report suspected human trafficking, and toolkits on how to respond for industry professionals in Schools, Churches, Hospitality, Law Enforcement, Retail, and Transportation.
Report Suspected Human Trafficking to Federal law enforcement: (866) 347-2423
Get Help from the National Human Trafficking Helpline: (888) 373-7888
Industry Professional Toolkits: dhs.gov/blue-campaign/materials/toolkits
dhs.gov/blue-campaign

Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO)

Provides resources and confidential support for LGBTQ+ survivors of hate and bias violence, relationship violence, stalking, and other forms of violence. They have walk-in hours on Wednesdays and Fridays, and offer a live helpline on weekdays. You can also text or email the organization with questions. BRAVO also offers trainings for professionals and service survivors. Their website has many resources for survivors in Ohio and nationwide.
King-Lincoln Medical Center 750 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
Helpline: (866) 862-7286
Text an advocate: (614) 333-1907
bravo.equitashealth.org

Center for Family Safety & Healing

Supports individuals and families experiencing violence, including; child abuse and neglect, teen dating abuse, domestic violence and elder abuse. Services include:

  • Counseling Services: For adults, children, and families who have experienced physical or sexual abuse, domestic violence, or other family stressors.
    Adult Counseling Services:  (614) 722-8293
    Child & Family Counseling Intake: (614) 722-8212, Questions/Concerns for Follow-Up Counseling: (614) 722-8210
  • Child Assessment Center: Provides medical treatment, comprehensive evaluations, and community resources for children who may have experienced abuse. neglect, or exposure to violence.
    (614) 722-3278
  • Fostering Connections: Specialized healthcare clinic and care coordination for youth in foster care or out-of-home care.
    (614) 722-6789
  • Maternal-Infant Home Visitation: Programs for caregivers who are pregnant or parenting a newborn.
    (614) 722-8222
  • Family Success Network: Free coaching for Franklin County families including money management, parenting support, basic life skills, and family success planning.

655 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
General: (614) 722-8200
familysafetyandhealing.org

Central Ohio Reach and Restore Coalition

Provides a collaborative community response to human trafficking in central Ohio through education, services for survivors, advocacy, and prosecution. They hold monthly meetings that are open to the public. They also provide free workshops and trainings on human trafficking.
National Human Trafficking Hotline: (888) 373-7888
(614) 437-2149
swo.salvationarmy.org/reachandrestore/

Child Help National Child Abuse Hotline

Child Help is a national organization dedicated to eradicating child abuse and neglect. They operate two national hotlines:

  • National Child Abuse Hotline:  Counselors are available 24/7 to answer questions, provide resources, and talk through scary situations. The website has important information on identifying  different types of abuse and neglect; resources for parents, teens, and survivors; and reporting guidelines by state.
    Call or Text: (800) 422-4453
    childhelphotline.org
  • Courage First Athlete Helpline: Specialized sports crisis counselors are available Monday-Friday 12-8pm PST for athletes, parents, and coaches to receive confidential emotional support, athlete-focused resources, and guidance related to any type of abuse. The website has important information on athlete abuse organizations, recognizing appropriate versus inappropriate touch from coaches, handling disclosures, and more.
    Call or Text: (888) 279-1026
    athletehelpline.org

Organization Website: childhelp.org

Childcare Training Ohio (CTO)

Provides health and safety training (like CPR, first aid, communicable disease and child abuse prevention) for childcare employees as well as the communities they serve. They offer online, blended, and group trainings for a minimal fee. Go online to find course details and to register. Trainings have been approved by Ohio Department of Education, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and OSHA.
(614) 721-7222
childcaretrainingohio.com

Columbus Early Learning Centers (CELC)

Provides childcare for children ages 6 weeks-5 years at their five Early Learning Centers in the Near East and Linden neighborhoods of Columbus, Ohio. Their centers use a play-based curriculum and positive discipline. The Alum Creek Early Learning Center is a PreK-12 school for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, and the Myrtle Avenue Early Learning Center is for ages 4-5. The ParentChild+ Program provides free home-visits, books, toys, and referrals to community services for families with a child 1-2years old. The Healthy Families America program provides free, in-home child development assistance for expectant parents or parents of newborns to learn about creating a safe home environment, soothing crying babies, and promoting healthy development.

  • 1350 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43209
    (614) 253-5525
  • 240 North Champion Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43203
    (614) 253 – 5525 ext. 4
  • 1150 East Main St., Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 253 – 5525 ext. 6
  • 760 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 253 – 5525 ext. 5
  • 1400 Mrytle Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43211
    (614) 365 – 7962

columbusearlylearning.org

Columbus Urban League (CUL)

A community‐based, non‐profit, advocacy organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services.

788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org

DWAVE (Deaf World Against Violence Everywhere)

Serves Ohio’s Deaf, Deaf Blind, Deaf Disabled, and Hard of Hearing communities by offering culturally affirmative services in response to relationship and sexual violence. Call to speak to a trained advocate for individualized safety planning and case management. Referrals can be placed for material help, legal help, social services, and mental health counseling. They offer 24-hour advocacy for survivors of sexual assault at local hospital emergency rooms. They also hold trainings for volunteer advocates, professionals/providers working with Deaf clients, and Deaf Culture 101.
PO Box 1286, Worthington, Ohio 43085
Videophone: (614) 678-5476
Voice/Text: (614) 887-7233
National Deaf Hotline VP: (855) 812-1001
National 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline Voice: (800) 799-7233
dwaveohio.org

Empower Our Youth Foundation

Offers a range of services for kids ages 5-17 to create a positive and nurturing environment for youth. Programs include a literacy and STEM academy, annual fashion and art shows, community give-back projects, social outings, and bullying prevention programs. They provide a safe space to assist with the reporting of bullying incidents to authorities, and their website has additional educational and anti-bullying resources for parents.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 512-6511
facebook.com/empowerouryouthfoundation

Halt Violence

Non-profit offering mediation, violence intervention services, and mentorship. Develops healthy conflict resolution styles and productive work skills for youth and adults with a history of violent behavior or previous incarceration. If you or someone you know has a problem or conflict in your community that could result in unnecessary violence, call them to see if they can help. They also provide housing assistance for adults who are employed and have a felony criminal record.
East Columbus: 923 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
West/Hilltop: 2360 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 302-1640
haltviolence.org

IMPACT Safety

IMPACT Safety is a personal safety and violence prevention program through LifeCare Alliance. The program includes safety awareness, emotional skills, boundary setting, and physical self-defense skills. They offer specialized programs for kids, teens, adults, seniors people with disabilities, women of color, businesses, and personalized options. Trainings require a fee, but need-based scholarships are available. Community programs are offered for free several times per year throughout Columbus.
1699 West Mound Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 437-2884
impactsafety.org

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)

The nation’s largest child protection organization with many programs and resources for exploited and vulnerable children and families:

  • Missing Children: Find resources on what to do if your child goes missing, and a searchable database of AMBER Alerts and missing child posters to help locate your child. NCMEC can assist with reunification, and families may qualify for transportation at low or no cost to them once their children are recovered. Call the 24/7 Tipline for help.
    (800) 843-5678
    What to Do If Your Child Is Missing: missingkids.org/gethelpnow/isyourchildmissing
    Search for Missing Children: missingkids.org/gethelpnow/search
  • CyberTipline: A centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. Anyone can call or go online 24/7 to report a missing child, child enticement, pornography, sexual abuse, trafficking, or misleading internet content.
    (800) 843-5678
    report.cybertip.org
  • Take It Down: A service that can help remove online nude or explicit photos from the internet that were taken before the age of 18.
    takeitdown.ncmec.org
  • Team HOPE: Matches individuals and families who have experienced sexual exploitation with trained, lived-experience peer volunteers to provide compassionate support.
    (866) 305-4673
    missingkids.org/gethelpnow/support/teamhope
  • Family Advocacy Outreach Network: Can help families find resources like specialized mental health therapists and attorneys.
    (877) 446-2632
  • Education: The website has important information and printable educational materials on topics like recovering from abuse, support for siblings and family members, Autism and wandering, family abduction, sextortion, and more. NCMEC provides professional safety trainings, such as Code ADAM. NetSmartz is a website for middle and high schoolers with fun resources, videos, and games on healthy relationships and internet safety.
    NetSmartz: missingkids.org/NetSmartz/home

Main Website: missingkids.org/home

National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome

This advocacy organization helps develop programs, public policy and provider information to prevent shaken baby syndrome. Their website is a good source of information on Shaken Baby Syndrome. They also have a list of resources for families such as support groups, disability resources, and services for victims of crime.
(801) 447-9360
dontshake.org

National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW)

The U.S Department of Justice provides the public with access to nationwide sex offender data. Use the NSOPW online search tool to find registered offenders using name or location. The website has information about sexual abuse/assault, recognizing potential warning signs, how to respond, and resources on violence prevention. If you have been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call your local police or contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800) 656-4673.
nsopw.gov

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) It’s Not Cool to Be Cruel

This interactive educational program for students in 5th-7th grade deals with the physical and emotional cruelty caused by bullying and violence. Students learn to appreciate differences and build skills for great empathy and compassion. The program travels to various classrooms, youth groups, and organizations. Teachers and group leaders can register online to request the program for a small fee.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0678
nationwidechildrens.org/its-not-cool-to-be-cruel

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Proud Linden Parent

Free parenting program for parents and caregivers of children ages 2-8 who live in zip codes 43211 and 43224. Participants connect with other parents in the community at various locations in Linden for 11 weeks, and learn skills for raising young children.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-9327
nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-families/neighbors/linden/proud-linden-parent-program

Nemours Teens Health

This website has a lot of information for teens that covers various health topics such as depression, relationships, staying safe, sexual health, smoking, coping with cliques, binge drinking, dealing with an alcoholic parent, marijuana use, body image and much more. There is also information for parents and educators.
kidshealth.org/en/teens

Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence (OAESV)

Advocates for comprehensive responses and rape crisis services for survivors, and empowers communities to prevent sexual violence.
6111 Oak Tree Boulevard, IndependenceOhio 44131
(888) 886-8388 Toll-free
oaesv.org

Ohio Attorney General Victims of Crime Compensation Program

Provides financial help to innocent victims of violent crimes (including domestic violence, sexual assault and homicide). Payments can cover medical expenses, counseling and lost wages. The application can be submitted online.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(800) 282-0515
ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Individuals-and-Families/Victims/Apply-for-Victims-Compensation.aspx

Ohio Children’s Trust Fund (OCTF)

Provides statewide advocacy, funding, and educational resources for parents and professionals to prevent child abuse and neglect. Programs include Parent Cafe support groups for parents and free online positive parenting class (Triple P). Browse their website for informational articles related to parenting.
(614) 387-5478 or (614) 722-5305
To report child abuse in Ohio: (855) 642-4453
Triple P: Positive Parenting Program
Central Ohio Website: Regional Prevention Councils/Central
Ohio Children’s Trust Fund Website: octf.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/octf

Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Prevention Program (SADVPP)

Seeks to improve the health status of Ohio women by identifying issues that affect women’s health and addressing issues such as sexual assault and domestic violence prevention.
246 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/sexual-assault-and-domestic-violence-prevention-program

Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN)

Support and strengthen Ohio’s response to domestic violence through training, public awareness, and technical assistance and to promote social change through the implementation of public policy. Their website provides a lot of information and community resources. Call their free information line for a referral or information about domestic violence.
1855 East Dublin-Granville, Suite 301, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 781-9651 or (800) 934-9840 Toll-free
odvn.org

Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) Family Violence Prevention Center (FVPC)

Although they do not provide direct services to victims, they offer a lot of information about local and state programs for victims of sexual assault, hate crimes, homicide, domestic violence, teen dating violence and sexual abuse.
ocjs.ohio.gov/family-violence-prevention

Ohio Victim Witness Association (OVWA)

As a statewide advocacy organization, OVWA protects rights and services for victims and witnesses of crime. OVWA members now include county prosecutor-based advocates, community advocates, and other professionals. They work alongside state agencies and other statewide victim advocacy groups. They also provide information for victims of crimes.
90 Northwoods Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 787-9000
ovwa.org

Polaris Project

National, survivor-centered movement to end human trafficking. They operate the National Human Trafficking Hotline, which provides immediate support across the United States 24/7. The Resilience Fund offers direct cash assistance as available, to survivors selected through their application process (currently closed until June 2024). Their website has important information on recognizing and ending human trafficking and modern day slavery; myths, facts, and statistics; and advocacy opportunities.
General Information: (202) 790-6300
National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call (888) 373-7888 or Text “BEFREE” to 233733
polarisproject.org

radKIDS

Provides child safety education nationwide with their personal safety curriculum. They educate children ages 8-12 on personal safety, bullying, abuse, neglect, and assault through an age-appropriate, fun, activity-based curriculum. Their website has helpful information, printable tip sheets, and coloring pages for families on recognizing and resisting violence.
(844) 723-5437
radkids.org

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

The nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. They operate the National Sexual Assault Hotline, which provides free, confidential support 24/7 through their phone line, online chat, or RAINN mobile app. They also offer an online service provider search tool to find sexual assault mental health providers and organizations by zip code. RAINN also offers educational and professional trainings. Their website has important information on state laws, safety for parents, warning signs in children and teens, bystander intervention, consent, and much more.
24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-4673
24/7 National Sexual Assault Online Chat: hotline.rainn.org/online
Sexual Assault Service Provider Tool: centers.rainn.org
Main Website: rainn.org

Remember Us Urban Legends

Provides free trauma-informed, culturally-relevant after-school and summer programs to help teens in Columbus City Schools reach their full potential. Programs include job skill & training opportunities, one-on-one mentorship and leadership training, and teen nights. They also host events for parents and community members. Go online to apply.
(614) 342-0505‬
ruurbanlegends.org

Safer Schools Ohio

Safer Ohio School Tip Line is a free safety resource available to all Ohio schools. Students and adults can use the tip line to anonymously share information with school officials and law enforcement about threats to student safety such as bullying, school shootings, self-harm or suicide risk, and any other safety-related concerns. Text or Caller the SaferOH Tip Line, or use the online form to report a concern.
Ohio Department of Public Safety
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 644-2641
SaferOH Tip Line: Call or Text (844) 723-3764
ohioschoolsafetycenter.ohio.gov/home

She Has A Name

Non-profit fighting human trafficking in Central Ohio. They are a leader of anti-human trafficking education and offer regular community trainings on Anti-Human Trafficking, Human Trafficking 101, and Trauma Responsive Care. They also provide support groups, a financial award, and an academic scholarship for survivors. Go online for program dates and details.
605 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 636-0421
shehasaname.org

STOMP Out Bullying

Dedicated to changing the culture for all students by preventing bullying, cyberbullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, and racism. Their website has helpful safety information for parents, educators, and youth. The HelpChat Crisis Line is a free and confidential helpline for anyone age 13-24 experiencing stress, depression, and fear because of bullying or cyberbullying to chat with a counselor. Click the link to access the HelpChat Crisis Line.
General Inquiries: 877-602-8559
stompoutbullying.org/helpchat

Stop It Now!

National organization committed to preventing child sexual abuse. Their website has information on internet safety, youth struggling with harmful sexual behaviors, healthy sexual development, reporting abuse, and more. Their Helpline provides free, confidential support and information to adults concerned about child sex abuse by phone or online Monday-Friday. Youth ages 14-21 can use the WhatsOK Helpline and website.
Stop It Now Helpline: (888) 773-8368
stopitnow.org/get-immediate-help
What’s OK Helpline (Ages 14-21): Call (888) 942-8765 or Text (888) 532-0550
whatsok.org/ask

Urban Minority Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Outreach Program (UMADAOP) of Franklin County

Offers substance abuse treatment, prevention, and recovery support programs for communities of color in Central Ohio using culturally specific, evidence-based strategies. They offer anger management, domestic violence prevention and parenting classes for adults. Youth programming includes in-school, after-school, and summer camp. They also offer training opportunities for professionals and events for the community. Call or email the organization to register for a program.
700 Bryden Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 227-9694 or (614) 403-3136
umadaopfc.com



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