SOLVE

Strengthening Our Local Voices to End Firearm Violence

About SOLVE

Firearm violence is a significant concern in Cape Girardeau, impacting individuals, families, and the broader community. SOLVE was created to address this urgent issue by bringing together diverse perspectives to develop proactive solutions.

  • We work with:

    • Concerned residents

    • Individuals affected by gun violence

    • Gun owners promoting safe practices

    • Law enforcement and first responders

    • Healthcare professionals

    • Educators and students

    • Nonprofit organizations

    • Business and civic leaders

    By involving a diverse audience, we ensure a well-rounded, community-driven approach.

    • Facilitate open, inclusive dialogue on firearm violence and prevention

    • Encourage community engagement and active participation

    • Strengthen collaboration among key stakeholders

    • Build community capacity for long-term solutions

    1. Building – Gather insights and develop strategies

    2. Collaborating – Work with stakeholders for local solutions

    3. Unifying – Promote awareness and empathy

    4. Growing – Evaluate progress for sustainable safety

    • Community Conversations & Listening Sessions – Safe spaces for residents to share experiences and concerns

    • Stakeholder Engagement – Working with leaders in law enforcement, healthcare, education, and local organizations

    • Grassroots Strategies – Community-led initiatives for firearm violence prevention

    • Training & Capacity Building – Workshops on conflict resolution, trauma care, and community engagement

    • Resource Development – Providing guides and toolkits for violence prevention efforts

SOLVE works to create a safer and more resilient Cape Girardeau by:

✔️ Engaging the community in open dialogue
✔️ Empowering local voices
✔️ Collaborating with key stakeholders
✔️ Implementing sustainable strategies to prevent firearm violence

Together, we strive for a future where everyone can thrive, free from the threat of gun violence.

How to Participate

Everyone has a role in making Cape Girardeau safer. You can:

  • Attend public forums and listening sessions

  • Support local firearm safety initiatives

  • Partner with SOLVE for community projects

  • Sponsor awareness campaigns

  • Share your experiences and insights to shape local strategies

Visit Us: 40 S. Sprigg St., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Call: (573) 651-3747

Youth Advisory Council (YAC)

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is made up of youth ages 14–24 from across the community. The council exists to support efforts in preventing and responding to firearm violence by empowering young people through leadership, engagement, and skill development.

Members of the YAC play an active role in shaping solutions, sharing perspectives, and contributing to meaningful community change.

Skill Development

Through participation in the YAC, members gain hands-on experience and practical skills that support both personal growth and community impact:

  • Leadership Training
    Workshops focused on building confidence, communication, and decision-making skills

  • Public Speaking Development
    Opportunities to strengthen the ability to share ideas clearly and effectively

  • Event Planning Experience
    Hands-on involvement in organizing and coordinating community events

  • Community Organizing Skills
    Training that empowers youth to engage peers and connect with local residents

  • Conflict Resolution
    Tools and strategies to support healthy communication and problem-solving

  • Teamwork and Collaboration
    Activities designed to strengthen group dynamics and cooperative leadership

  • Community Engagement
    Participation in local events to apply skills in real-world settings

  • Monthly Council Meetings
    Ongoing opportunities for consistent involvement, leadership growth, and idea-sharing

Strengthening Our Local Voices to End Firearm Violence - PODCAST

Venue:
40 S. Sprigg St. Cape Girardeau, MO

Our last session was a small but powerful conversation; we’d love more voices in the room. If you’ve been impacted by gun violence—whether personally or through a loved one—this is a space to share, listen, and connect with others who understand.

Please make sure to come and be part of this critical conversation. Your voice matters.

Podcasts:

Meet the Team