Ginther proposes $2 million for programs keeping teens on the right track

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Efforts continue to put a cap on violence in the city as Mayor Andrew Ginther proposes funds from the capital budget to go toward programs benefiting young people.

The proposal allocates $2 million to expand Community for New Direction (CND) and the services it offers geared to help 14- to 24-year-olds.

"We want to make sure we empower and educate and give these young people what they need to better take care of themselves so they can contribute more to the community over the long haul," Ginther said.

The project would renovate the building adjacent to the existing CND facility on East Livingston Avenue. This would allow for more space for services that support crime prevention such as counseling, substance abuse, and mental health services.

Ginther said partnerships like this are helping to make the community safe and paving a path of success for the city’s neighbors.

"We believe the way we get safer as a community is that we make sure we're investing in prevention and intervention, too," he said. "That's what this announcement and partnership is all about. Community for New Direction is going to reach young people, to help get them what they need to put them back on the right track or to keep them on the right track."

The capital budget is set to be voted on and approved by city council by the end of July.