The Ethics Project is a multi-award-winning, St. Louis–based nonprofit advancing justice, healing, and community transformation. Since 2007, we have convened bold, solutions-focused conversations and programs that address the root causes of violence and inequity.
Our early work included The National Youth Summit on Education, Justice, and Leadership, held in collaboration with institutions such as the University of Missouri, St. Louis, Howard University, Morehouse College, and Jackson State University. That national dialogue helped elevate youth voices in conversations about policy, opportunity, and justice. To further engage the community in finding solutions to social ills, we have held an annual State of Public Safety in St. Louis at Harris-Stowe State University, St. Louis University, and Washington University School of Law.
In response to rising youth trauma and gun violence in our own community, we launched The Youth Art and Writing Project on Gun Violence, Peace, and Hope. Through creative expression, students shared deeply personal stories of loss, fear, resilience, and hope. The project not only provided healing outlets for youth -it sparked district-wide literacy reforms and broadened awareness of the long-term impact of violence on young people.
Now, as we enter 2026, The Ethics Project is bringing Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) to the St. Louis region via the Center to Relational Healing. TBRI is an evidence-based, trauma-informed model that has been shown to reduce juvenile incarceration, strengthen caregiver-child relationships, and build resilience in youth who have experienced adversity. We anticipate experiencing the 40% decrease in justice-involved youth, after the Mississippi Judiciary and staff were trained and a 91% decrease in physical and verbal aggression experienced by school districts who used TBRI for a year.
From community forums to systems reform efforts, to trauma-informed trainings, we remain committed to uplifting voices, exposing injustice, and implementing real, sustainable solutions that strengthen families and transform communities.
Your support on GiveSTLDay helps us move from conversation to measurable change.