When children and youth feel unsafe, adults need to act. The damaging effects that feeling unsafe and being exposed to violence have on young people and their ability to succeed are well-established. These scientific insights make clear the urgency with which the people of this country must intervene in schools and communities to change the perceived and actual safety of young people for the better. When lack of safety exists, schools and communities need to be equipped with the human capital and capacity to identify when youth are struggling and resolve the issues that impact them. Given the severe cognitive and academic impacts, young people cannot afford inaction in the face of violence.