Resource Spotlight: LOV – Life Outside of Violence

Life Outside of Violence (LOV) is a program created by the Institute of Public Health at Washington University, in collaboration with the Office for Victims of Crime, Barnes and Children’s Hospital, St. Louis University Hospital, and Cardinal Glennon Hospital. It is available to residents of St. Louis County, St. Louis City, and the Metro East region (within a specific radius) who are between eight and 30 years old and have been injured in incidents of assault, gun violence, or stabbings. The program’s goal is to reduce the cycle of violence that often occurs when an assaulted person seeks revenge or retribution. Participants receive assistance in developing a safety plan and connecting with community resources. Once enrolled, ongoing guidance, support and treatment can continue from six to twelve months.

Program participants meet with a Community Outreach Representative (COR), who has personal experience as a victim or a relative of someone affected by violence. The COR serves as a link to case managers and services provided by the LOV project. Additional services offered by LOV include counseling, support for employment, basic needs, education, and housing.

For more information, visit publichealth.wustl.edu/lov, call 314.327.6697, or email projectlov@wustl.edu.