ONEstep Forward Program
ABOUT ONESTEP FORWARD
The One Step Forward initiative is a community violence intervention program grounded in public health principles and designed to address gun violence in Prince George’s County while supporting individuals, families, and communities impacted by violence. The project uses a structured, evidence-informed mentorship model that incorporates trauma-informed care and credible messenger strategies to help participants heal from the effects of gun violence, reduce cycles of retaliation and harm, strengthen family stability, and expand access to critical social and emotional supports.
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Are you - or someone you know - impacted by gun violence, community violence, grief, trauma, or crisis?
One Step Forward exists to provide support, connection, mentorship, and resources during difficult moments. Whether someone is directly affected, at risk, navigating conflict, or seeking guidance after a crisis, our program is committed to helping individuals and families move toward healing, stability, and hope.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Upon enrollment through outreach or referral (law enforcement, schools, hospitals, community partners), each participant completes a comprehensive needs assessment.
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Participants are assigned a Credible Messenger mentor, who co-develops an Individual Success Plan tied to measurable public health outcomes such as stable employment, educational attainment, and reduced involvement with violence.​
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Participants move through the following service flow:
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Weekly individualized mentorship sessions
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Monthly “CEO Saturday” life skills and entrepreneurship workshops
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Mental health support through referrals to licensed clinicians (Dove Health)
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Workforce readiness training and direct job placement referrals
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Ongoing case management and service coordination
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Crisis intervention within 24 hours following a violence-related incident
POPULATION WE SERVE
YAAYME’s OneStep Forward Initiative, focuses on justice-involved individuals who are reentering communities such as 20743, 20748, and 20785— areas disproportionately impacted by poverty, unemployment, and housing insecurity.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
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Ages: 16-30
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Residency: Must be a Maryland resident, impacted by gun violence, specifically living in Prince George’s County