About Us
Stop The Violence Coalition
The Stop the Violence Coalition (STV) is a community-driven initiative powered by Empower Alliance, committed to reducing violence, healing trauma, and building safer, stronger neighborhoods across Spartanburg and beyond.
We believe that violence is not just a public safety issue—it is a public health crisis that requires unity, education, and empowerment at every level of the community.
Through strategic partnerships with schools, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, local leaders, and community stakeholders, STV works to address the root causes of violence while creating pathways for healing, opportunity, and transformation.
Our Pillars
Unite
We bring together community voices—residents, leaders, organizations, and institutions—to collaborate, build trust, and create solutions that strengthen neighborhoods.
Educate
We provide youth and families with tools for conflict resolution, leadership development, and awareness through programs like the STV Youth Alliance, workshops, and community forums.
Empower
We equip individuals impacted by violence with resources, support systems, and opportunities for growth—including mentorship, job training, and victim & survivor support services.
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Violence Prevention & Intervention
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We implement community-based strategies, credible messenger programs, and outreach initiatives to interrupt cycles of violence.
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Victim & Survivor Support
We provide safe spaces, advocacy, and healing-centered resources for individuals and families impacted by violence. -
Community Engagement & Partnerships
We collaborate with schools, churches, local agencies, and civic organizations to drive sustainable, community-led change. -
Youth Leadership Development
Through the STV Youth Alliance and partnering organizations, we cultivate future leaders by teaching accountability, communication, and decision-making skills.
Meet The Team
Contessa Thompson
Founder & Executive Director
Lillie Green
Co- Founder
Tracey Miller, DNP, APRN
Advisory Board/ HVIP Liason
Robert Cheeks
Advisory Board - Law Enforcement
Naran Miller
Advisory Board - Youth Rehabilitation & Systems Impact
Trish Wright
Advisory Board - Youth Alliance
Heather Landrum
Family Advocate / Victim & Survivor Committee Chair
Chantel Bartlett
Youth Development Coordinator, Trauma - Informed Care Facilitator
Karen Beasley Jones
Victim & Survivor Committee Co Chair
Wyoming Switzer
Community Engagement Coordinator
Rosa Berry
Data and Information Coordinator
Hidiyah (Ronisha) Yussif
Victim and Survivor Community Engagement Coordinator
Our Partners
