In Philadelphia, where gun violence has scarred communities and reshaped lives, local organizations are forging a new approach, prioritizing support for victims and proactive safety education. The Philadelphia chapter of That Gun Talk, launched in August 2021 by Jarel and Karise Crew, is one of the grassroots initiatives meeting the challenge head-on. Founded by a husband-and-wife duo, the group’s mission is to equip survivors of gun violence with responsible gun ownership skills and de-escalation training, hoping to foster both individual protection and community resilience.

For 22-year-old Isaiah Stanton, the group’s work is personal. He purchased a firearm in the wake of his brother’s 2023 murder, a case still without justice. His decision to legally own a weapon for self-protection came with a commitment to responsibility. “It was about my safety and my family’s, done the right way,” Stanton told NBC News, reflecting the thoughtful approach That Gun Talk advocates. This August, Stanton attended one of the group’s workshops, learning about safe gun handling and de-escalation, alongside others impacted by gun violence.

The Crews are driven by more than just the practicalities of gun safety. They want to shift the narrative on victims of violence, urging the community to see these individuals as deserving of care and attention, not judgment. “It’s not just gun violence; it’s about how we’re supporting these people, listening to them, and being there,” Karise Crew explained in an NBC interview. Jarel Crew echoed her sentiment, emphasizing the balance between self-defense and community responsibility. He cautioned that responsible gun ownership alone can’t end violence but believes it’s a crucial step.

The Uplift Center for Grieving Children is also contributing to these efforts, focusing on mental health and grief work as essential tools for violence prevention. With a recent $50,000 grant from Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and the Philadelphia Foundation, Uplift will continue offering free services to grieving families. “Processing these emotions is no easy task, especially in communities facing high levels of violence,” said Uplift’s executive director, Keri Salerno. The center sees grief support as an indirect but powerful form of violence prevention.

As part of a larger push to address gun violence at its roots, Krasner’s office has committed to funding 31 more community-based groups with microgrants aimed at reducing violent crime. “This is a historic drop in gun violence, but we can’t get complacent,” Krasner stated, emphasizing the importance of both community-based prevention and modern enforcement strategies.