Why We Exist
At the National Violence Prevention Hotline, we believe that violence prevention begins with connection. Whether you’re looking to support our mission financially, advocate for systemic change, or find help for someone in distress, there are meaningful ways you can make a difference.
A Vital Gap that Demands Action
For decades, the U.S. has invested in crisis lines for suicide prevention and domestic violence. Yet until now, there has been no national helpline specifically designed to support people experiencing violent urges before they act. Without early, compassionate intervention, critical opportunities to prevent harm are often missed—sometimes with devastating consequences.
Violence rarely comes out of nowhere. Acts like mass shootings, workplace violence, and severe interpersonal harm are often preceded by warning signs that go unaddressed. The National Violence Prevention Hotline exists to respond during that window when prevention is still possible.
Our goal is simple but urgent: to reduce violence by intervening early and responding quickly to concerns. We support not only people who are worried about someone else’s behavior, but also individuals who are frightened by their own thoughts and want help before harm occurs.
Research underscores the need for this approach. A U.S. Secret Service study of 37 school shootings found that in 81% of cases, at least one other person knew about the threat beforehand. In many instances, individuals contemplating violence “leak” their thoughts through statements, behaviors, or plans. These are often unrecognized cries for help. Many also experience multiple stressors in the year leading up to an attack, highlighting the importance of timely support and intervention.
The US Secret Service studied 37 school shootings and found that 81% of the time at least one other person knew about it in advance.
Perpetrators are more than likely to leak violent thoughts, plans, or
make threatening statements before their attack. Research findings suggest this leakage to potentially be a cry for help.
Perpetrators typically experience multiple stressors in the year prior to their attack, highlighting the critical need for early help-seeking and intervention.
National Violence Prevention Hotline's Style for Safety Fundraiser | The Importance of Our Mission
Statement of Action
Read our full statement of action here.
Our Mission: Prevention Through Connection
The National Violence Prevention Hotline provides free, confidential, expert support to people in distress who feel driven toward violence, as well as to those concerned about someone they know. Our trained team listens without judgment, helps de-escalate intense situations, and guides callers toward safer next steps and appropriate resources.
We recognize that violence often grows out of pain—trauma, isolation, loss, or unmet needs—not inherent malice. Rather than asking, “What’s wrong with you?” we ask, “What’s been happening, and what support do you need right now?” That shift creates space for accountability, understanding, and real change.
Beyond crisis response, we work with community partners to address the deeper roots of violence. Through education, school-based programs, workshops, and outreach efforts, we aim to strengthen communities and reduce risk long before harm occurs.
Learn more about our Crisis Support Program here.
Feeling Lonely and Isolated? Learn about the Violence Prevention Hotline
Preventing Violence Before it Starts
Our work focuses on the “contemplation phase,” that is, the critical moment when violent thoughts first begin to take shape. We also support friends, family members, and others who may be worried about someone in their lives. By offering free support, practical resources, and clear pathways for action, we help people understand that violence is not inevitable. There is another way forward and it is one grounded in awareness, healing, and hope.
Learn more about the specifics and logistics in Supporter Resources.
Warning Signs and Bystander Guidance
Learn more about how to spot warning signs and what you can do as a bystander with ‘Warning Signs and Bystander Guidance
Why the United States Needs this Violence Prevention Solution Now! A Hotline for the Homicidal
Violence by the Numbers
The US Secret Service studied 37 school shootings and found that 81% of the time at least one other person knew about it in advance. Source.
- Perpetrators are more than likely to leak violent thoughts, plans, or
make threatening statements before their attack. Research findings suggest this leakage to potentially be a cry for help. Source. - Perpetrators typically experience multiple stressors in the year prior to their attack, highlighting the critical need for early help-seeking and intervention. Source.
Pilot Budget
Budget breakdown for the National Violence Prevention Hotline pilot program.