The Gun Violence Workgroup of Prince George's County convened virtually on April 16, 2025, to discuss strategies aimed at reducing youth involvement in gun violence through the Thrive Academy program. The meeting highlighted the importance of engaging at-risk youth, particularly those who are not in school or have experienced gun violence directly or indirectly.

Key discussions centered on the criteria for youth referrals to the Thrive Academy. Participants noted that youth with behavioral health issues, those who have witnessed gun violence, or those with a history of being victims are prioritized for enrollment. The program aims to provide support and mentorship to these individuals, with a focus on preventing further involvement in gun-related activities.

The Thrive Academy, which operates in multiple counties including Prince George's, has served 165 youth since its inception in September 2023. Notably, 3% of these participants have been victims of non-fatal shootings, and none have been homicide victims. However, 19% of the youth enrolled have faced arrests related to handgun possession, a statistic that program leaders acknowledge needs improvement. They emphasized the importance of teaching conflict resolution skills to reduce reliance on firearms.

The meeting also reported positive outcomes regarding educational engagement, with 78% of active participants enrolled in traditional schooling and 16% having graduated or completed a GED. The program aims to expand its reach, with plans to serve additional counties and increase capacity for youth enrollment.

Overall, the workgroup underscored the dual focus of the Thrive Academy: supporting youth development while enhancing public safety. The discussions concluded with a commitment to continue refining strategies to engage youth effectively and reduce gun violence in the community.