As concerns over school safety continue to weigh heavily on students and parents alike, young leaders across the country are stepping up to drive change. According to a recent survey conducted by Sandy Hook Promise, nearly one in five parents have heard their child express fear of a school shooting. Yet, rather than letting fear take hold, students are joining forces to make their schools safer, taking action nationwide during National Youth Violence Prevention Week (April 28 to May 2).

Thousands of SAVE Promise Clubs—the nation’s largest network of student-led anti-violence groups—are mobilizing to prevent gun violence, foster safer communities, and shift school culture. Across the country, more than 153,000 members from 5,000+ clubs will participate in activities designed to educate and empower young people to recognize warning signs, build positive relationships, and promote safety in schools.

Texas, in particular, has seen incredible participation, with 377 clubs and nearly 8,000 students actively involved in violence prevention efforts across the state.

Nine student leaders from various states serve on Sandy Hook Promise’s National Youth Advisory Board, guiding the activities of SAVE Promise Clubs and ensuring that youth voices remain at the forefront of the conversation on school safety and mental health.

This year’s National Youth Violence Prevention Week kicks off with the National SAVE Promise Club Youth Summit on April 26 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More than 400 students, supporters, and advocates will gather to learn, share, and strategize on ways to combat school violence while fostering inclusive and supportive school environments.

Nicole Hockley, co-founder and co-CEO of Sandy Hook Promise, expressed the urgent need to address school safety concerns with youth-led solutions:

“One in four parents say their child has expressed concerns about their overall safety at school in the past year—even among children as young as five years old. That’s unacceptable. Every child deserves to feel safe at school. That’s why we’re equipping youth with the skills necessary to prevent violence and create a better future for all.”

Students across the country agree that youth involvement is key to changing the trajectory of school safety.

“Young people have a direct perspective on the issues that impact their safety—school shootings, bullying, and more. When youth are actively involved, they feel empowered to take ownership of their school’s safety, working together to create stronger communities,” said Wendy, a 17-year-old student from California and a member of the National Teen Board for Beyond Differences.

Evelyn, a 15-year-old from Wisconsin, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of youth leadership: “Eventually, we will be the adults leading the charge on school safety. If we start now, we can keep building momentum.”

Angelo, a 15-year-old National Youth Advisory Board member from Florida, added, “A positive school culture creates a sense of belonging, welcoming, and safety. It can prevent violence.”

Students, schools, communities, and organizations looking to take part in National Youth Violence Prevention Week can find activities and resources at SandyHookPromise.org/nyvpw. The website provides materials to help youth, educators, and volunteers advocate for safer schools and violence prevention efforts nationwide.

As a national nonprofit organization, Sandy Hook Promise envisions a future free from school shootings and other acts of violence. Their mission is to educate and empower youth and adults to prevent violence before it happens. Through evidence-based programs like “Know the Signs,” SHP teaches people to recognize warning signs of individuals in crisis, ensuring that those at risk receive the help they need.

Founded by families affected by the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, the organization continues to lead efforts in school safety, youth mental health, and responsible gun ownership, advocating for change at both the state and federal levels.

For more information on how to get involved, visit SandyHookPromise.org.