Engaging those “hardest-to-reach” – as they are, where they are, when they call – with credible messengers, practical solutions, and trauma-informed support. We embrace a holistic approach that consistently results in increased personal growth, decreased recidivism, and long-lasting transformation.
Through unification of diverse skill, lived experience, expertise, background, culture, and ideas, we can create the strength to overcome the challenges our communities face.
With the practical support and empathy of others aligned with the same goals, the individual - and the community - is empowered to take ACTION to address and improve their circumstances.
Support of another who has successfully emerged from similar circumstances can make all the difference. Peers with lived eXperience are Credible Messengers who are uniquely qualified to offer empathy, acknowledgement, validation, strategic guidance and practical, trauma-informed assistance.
Community Members
Elders, youth, parents, creators, dreamers…
Local Businesses
Job opportunities, economic growth, safer neighborhoods
Government Agencies
Local, state, & federal agencies with aligned goals.
Community-Based & Non-Profit Organizations
Addressing the root causes of violence & providing practical support services.
Health Service Providers
Health professionals offering trauma-informed support & services.
Legal Professionals & Advocacy Groups
To ensure justice-involved individuals receive comprehensive assistance.
Educational Institutions
Engage in violence prevention education, awareness programs, & research initiatives.
Corporate Sponsors
Building alliances to support job training & meet diversity and inclusion goals.
Content Creators & Media Outlets
Spread the word – End the Violence: Together we can!
End The Violence
810 Kimball Place, Unit B
Columbus, OH 43205
Columbus, OH, June 4, 2024 — The remarkable journey of Sean Stevenson, Founder and Director of End The Violence, reaches a pinnacle as he is awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree for his profound dedication to ending violence and fostering peace in communities nationwide. The prestigious degree was conferred upon Dr. Stevenson in Lanham, Maryland on May 18, 2024, in recognition of his transformative journey from incarceration to a life of service.
Stevenson’s path is a testament to the power of redemption and the recognition of lived experiences. Having served 20 years in federal prison, he emerged from adversity with a steadfast commitment to effecting positive change. His personal transformation into a beacon of hope and advocacy exemplifies the potential for growth and renewal within every individual.
“I’m deeply honored to get this recognition. This honorary doctorate isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a tribute to everyone involved in End The Violence and to all the credible messengers using their own experiences to make our communities safer and stronger. It represents the hope and progress we’re working hard to bring to our communities every day.”
The recognition of Dr. Stevenson’s lived experience underscores the importance of acknowledging and valuing diverse perspectives in the pursuit of social justice. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that transformation is possible, and that every individual has the potential to contribute positively to society.
During his address at the ceremony, Dr. Winford Thompson explained that the honorees are in “good company” along with Dr. Billy Graham and Dr. Maya Angelou, among others. “…the dissertations that [the academics] are writing are about people that do the type of work that you do every day. You earned this!”
As Stevenson continues to lead End The Violence with compassion and determination, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of building safer, more resilient communities. The honorary Doctorate Degree serves as both a tribute to Dr. Stevenson’s journey and a call to action for continued advocacy and social change.
**Contact:**
Maria Stokes
Assistant Director, Operations
End The Violence
Email: maria.stokes@endtheviolenceoh.org
Phone: (833) ETV-4-ALL / (833) 388-4255 —
**About End The Violence:**
End The Violence is a nonprofit organization dedicated to proactively addressing violence at its roots in real-time. Founded by Sean Stevenson, the organization empowers individuals and communities to break the cycle of violence through education, advocacy, and support services. Recognizing the value of lived experience and the potential for transformation, End The Violence works tirelessly to create a more just and equitable society.
810 Kimball Place, Columbus, OH 43205, (833) ETV-4-ALL, www.endtheviolenceoh.org