Money is available from Pierce County’s Department of Community Connections for organizations to develop Youth Violence Prevention Programs.

Community Connections recently announced the Request for Proposals that address the need for long-term prevention of violent behavior among children, youth and their families. The deadline to submit applications is Fri., March 2, 2012.

“The goal is to develop programs for individuals who have experienced or participated in violence – no matter the degree, severity or duration,” said Susy Stremel of Community Connections. “Organizations that provide services to improve interpersonal skills and encourage community involvement are key to helping us influence behaviors among parents, children and their peers.”

The Community Connections staff invites applicants to attend an upcoming informational workshop. During the seminar, staff members will answers questions about the application process and help organizations develop the best possible requests for funding. The next application workshop will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15 at Community Connections’ Sound View location (3602 Pacific Ave) in conference room A.

Inquiries and completed applications can be directed to Caroline Belleci, Pierce County Community Connections, 1305 Tacoma Avenue S, Suite 104, Tacoma, WA 98402 or (253) 798-3570 or cbellec@co.pierce.wa.us .

The Pierce County Council dedicates one-fourth of the one percent of Criminal Justice Sales and Use Tax collected in unincorporated Pierce County for youth violence prevention. Approximately $1.3 million is generated annually to fund activities that prevent, eliminate or reduce violence among children, youth and their families in unincorporated Pierce County.

To read the complete RFP and learn more about eligibility and program requirements, visit Community Connections online at http://www.PierceCountywa.org/vp .