Stephanie L. Mann

STEPHANIE MANN, Crime & Violence Prevention Consultant Founder, Safe Kids Now National Network Stephanie Mann co-authored, “Alternative to Fear: Guidelines to Safer Neighborhoods,” in 1975. With the help of California’s first lady, Nancy Reagan, the CA Youth Authority funded the book. Thousands of guidebooks were purchased by police departments, police training centers, state and government agencies around the country, including the FBI. In her community, of 17,500 residents, they didn’t have a local police department but they did have a drug abuse and burglary problem. A volunteer committee took charge and hired two sheriff investigators to help implement the “Neighborhood Responsibility Program.” The committee of 10 volunteers got organized, spoke at civic groups and encouraged friends to host neighborhood meetings. They presented drug education at the middle and high school. Within 2 1/2 years, involved residents decreased crime 48%. “Alternative to Fear” helped educate police about the potential of involved citizens and popularized the “Neighborhood Watch” Programs. Mann worked as a community leader, neighborhood organizer, county coordinator and state consultant; and authored, “Safe Homes, Safe Neighborhoods: Stopping Crime Where You Live” (Nolo Press 1993) She promoted safe neighborhoods and was interviewed over 140 times on TV and radio. While working in Richmond CA, with “Mother’s Against Senseless Killings,” Mann saw people too scared to be involved or report crimes. She wrote, “The Adopt-A-Block Guidebook,” a 10-step, easy to follow guide for existing church groups and civic organizations whose members already knew and trusted each other. This book gives individuals and groups the tools to reach out and help others. She started a homeless men’s support group while working with “The Mary Ann Wright Foundation” in Oakland CA. From this support group, she recognized the need to support children at an early age which prompted her to write, “Street Safe Kids” to help inner city youth avoid drugs, gangs, violence and grow strong from within to develop self-esteem and stay centered. Book available on: www.streetsafekids.org Stephanie is the founder of Safe Kids Now National Network at www.safekidsnow.com and states, “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, healthy neighborhood. Community leaders can make that happen if they give individuals and organizations the tools to create a safe neighborhood. The Adopt-A-Block Guidebook can strengthen families and help stop the social isolation that fuels domestic violence, abuse, gangs and other destructive behaviors.” KEEPING KIDS SAFE BEGINS AT HOME AND IN OUR NEIGHBORHOODS!