Twenty-five years ago, an event shook us to our core: the Columbine High School shooting opened our eyes to the tragedy of targeted violence. As we all know, it was not the last time. What will it take for communities to join together and put a stop to hate-fueled-violence.
Adams County has not experienced an event like this, yet. However, our local law enforcement can attest that we have been close. Quick action and thorough investigation have prevented potential incidents because some people spoke up, knew what to look for, and got involved.

We need to continue these efforts together as a community. That’s why we invite you to attend a crucial Community Awareness Briefing on May 4th, where the Department of Homeland Security will present the realities of targeted violence and what we can do to prevent it.
Uniting Communities to Prevent Targeted Violence
Saturday, May 4th from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
at the College Union Building 300 N.
Washington St. Gettysburg, PA 17325
Ashley Wilson, Regional Prevention Coordinator at the Department of Homeland Security, and David Wood, the Department of Homeland Security’s Protective Security Advisor for central PA, will both speak on this important topic.
Targeted violence isn’t something that only happens in distant places or on the news. It’s happening right here in our neighborhoods, affecting our friends, families, and fellow community members. Whether it’s hate crimes, extremist acts, or other forms of targeted violence, no community is immune. That’s why it’s essential for us to be informed and proactive.
The briefing on May 4th aims to raise awareness about targeted violence including within Adams County and to make citizens aware of what is being done to help prevent it. We will discuss the signs to watch for, the resources available for support and intervention, and most importantly, how each of us can play a role in preventing violence before it happens.
By attending this briefing, you’ll not only gain valuable insights into this critical issue but also join a collective effort to make our community safer and more resilient. Your presence and participation are crucial in shaping a community that values inclusivity, tolerance, and peace.
To RSVP or for any inquiries, please email mediationac@yahoo.com for a link to our online form. Or click here.
We look forward to your presence and meaningful contributions at the Targeted Violence Community Awareness Briefing.
Patti Robinson moved from Utica, NY to Gettysburg, PA six years ago. She has a degree in psychology from SUNY Polytechnic Institute and has worked as an in home autism therapist and in the Hamilton College Psychology Department as an editorial assistant of a super geeky journal. She has worked as a mediator for the Unified court system, Child Court Improvement Project, The Peacemaker Program Inc and she serves on the board of Mediation Services of Adams County. Patti is certified in many types of mediation including; divorce, child permanency, police/citizen, small claims, landlord/tenant and is currently working as a community mediator. She and her husband Doug live just south of town on a 22 Acre registered wetland with their three tiny and two giant dogs and two normal sized swans.