In September, LIVE FREE Oklahoma Executive Director Jabee Williams represented Oklahoma City at UTEC’s New England Street Worker Conference at Gillette Stadium. The invitation placed Oklahoma’s community violence intervention work in conversation with practitioners and leaders from across the country.

Community knowledge on a national stage

Community violence intervention is built on trust, consistency and the credibility of people who understand the neighborhoods they serve. At the conference, Williams shared his personal story and the relationship-driven approach LIVE FREE Oklahoma uses to prevent violence and support safer communities.

National gatherings like this create room for local leaders to exchange practical lessons, learn from other cities and return home with stronger connections. They also make visible the work already happening in Oklahoma—work led by people closest to the challenges and committed to lasting solutions.

Oklahoma work, national connection

For LIVE FREE Oklahoma, the moment was more than a speaking engagement. It was an opportunity to carry Oklahoma voices into a national conversation about safety, healing and community-led change. The organization will continue building partnerships that strengthen local outreach while connecting Oklahoma City to a wider movement for peace.

Learn more about LIVE FREE Oklahoma’s work and how community-based strategies help make neighborhoods safer.

Source: Jabee Williams on Instagram, September 22, 2026.