The mission of the DC Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) is to build a community-oriented model for violence prevention and public safety. ONSE employs a strategy rooted in public health, recognizing that crime reduction is not accomplished through law enforcement alone. ONSE programs consolidate violence prevention efforts across agencies in an effort to create a comprehensive violence prevention strategy throughout the District.

Summary of Services

ONSE was created to address violence in the District while assisting families dealing with the grief and trauma caused by these occurrences. In addition to serving as coordinator for citywide prevention efforts, ONSE is responsible for playing an “on the ground” role in deterring negative activity in local communities, while serving individuals and families affected by violence.