The Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement  is a collaborative initiative between the City of Memphis and Shelby County Government, supported by Mayor Lee Harris and Mayor Paul Young. Acting as a bridge between government agencies and community organizations—including local businesses, non-profits, grassroots groups, and faith-based organizations—Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement is dedicated to violence prevention and intervention. With a particular focus on gun violence, the office applies targeted strategies to support community members most at risk of engaging in or becoming victims of violent acts.

Our mission is to empower both individuals and groups within the community by providing the tools, resources, and support needed to foster safe, thriving neighborhoods. We believe that every community member, whether acting alone or as part of a larger group, has a vital role in promoting safety and resilience. Through targeted investments in community-based interventions, prevention, and community development, we seek to build stronger foundations for long-term positive change. We help residents understand how their actions can contribute to safer, more resilient neighborhoods, encouraging a shared sense of responsibility and pride.

While traditional law enforcement serves a critical role in reducing crime, the full weight of public safety cannot and should not fall solely on the shoulders of law enforcement. We must continue to emphasize prevention, intervention, victim services, and re-entry — alongside enforcement — to deliver sustainable reductions in violent crime. Together, we can create a foundation of trust and mutual support that sustains neighborhood safety and well-being for generations to come.