The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, in collaboration with community organizations, held listening sessions in Philadelphia on January 21 and 22 focused on gun violence prevention and services for victims and affected family members. The event brought together community leaders, program administrators, and families impacted by this type of violence, with the goal of identifying needs and strengthening available services.

One of the sessions was held at Concilio. Dr. Rashidah Abdul-Khabeer, Council Program Development Officer at Concilio, explained that this initiative originates directly from the state government: “This program is the result of a gun violence prevention initiative led by the Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, who has identified this issue as a priority area and is allocating resources and funding,” she stated.

A space to listen to victims and their families

The event was designed as a community listening and dialogue session. According to Abdul-Khabeer, participants fall into two main groups: program administrators and organizations, and individuals directly affected by gun violence. “They will be able to describe their experiences as victims of gun violence or as family members of victims of gun violence,” she explained.

Although the primary focus of the gathering was gun violence, mental health–related issues were also addressed. “Other concerns may emerge, such as access to grief counseling and other mental health challenges resulting from experiences with violence. What we hope to hear is what needs they perceive because of these experiences,” Abdul-Khabeer added.

Ongoing support from community and judicial services

Marie Ranselle, Interim Director of Community Services, explained: “We actively work with clients within the judicial system and provide post-impact support throughout the community.”

Ranselle emphasized that the information gathered during these sessions will help improve direct services for those affected: “We will receive feedback on the areas we need to focus on when working with clients in the community setting,” she stated.

Women and families as the primary participants

According to the organizers, the majority of those attending these activities are women, although the space is open to entire families. “In many cases, they are mothers, wives, or relatives of individuals who were injured or killed in a shooting in the Eastern Division of North Philadelphia,” explained Abdul-Khabeer.

In addition to emotional support, Concilio provides guidance throughout judicial processes. “We support families in court so they understand what resources are available to them, comprehend the judicial process, and can be guided throughout the entire process,” she noted.

Strengthening the community and reducing violence

According to Ranselle, the overall goal of this initiative is to improve families’ quality of life. “Gun violence affects our entire community. We work both on prevention—especially with youth—and on supporting those who have been affected, so they can return to a healthier environment,” she stated.

In closing, the organizers shared a direct message with the community: “We hope people see Concilio as a safe haven—a place where they can receive support, learn alternatives to violence, and find educational resources,” she affirmed.

“We are the heart of the community. We want people to know that Concilio is the place they should turn to, because we will take them where they need to go.”

For more information about these initiatives: www.pa.gov