Increased resident engagement, neighborhood improvement, career development and reduced crimes were some of the goals and initiatives discussed by Long Beach Councilwoman Lena Gonzalez and community leaders on Friday at the Guidance Center headquarters for the Washington School Neighborhood.

The group convened for a round table discussion as part of the city’s Safe Long Beach program, which was adopted by the Long Beach City Council last May to address a broad safety agenda aimed at reducing all forms of violence, including domestic abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, hate crimes, bullying, gang violence, and violent crime, according to a press release.

“Ensuring the safety of our City is a responsibility that is shared by all,” Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement. “I commend the ongoing efforts of our Councilmembers, City staff, community leaders, and residents who are taking an active role to protect the health, safety, and welfare of Long Beach neighborhoods.”

During the event, Gonzalez presented a variety of community projects and existing programs aimed at deterring criminal activity and uplifting the Washington School Neighborhood—which is bordered by Pacific Coast Highway to the north, Long Beach Boulevard to the west, Anaheim Street to the south and Magnolia Avenue to the east.

“The safety of families in the Washington Neighborhood is my top priority,” Gonzalez said in a statement. “Building community leadership and working in tandem to tackle challenges and deliver essential programs and services is crucial to maintaining a safe and sustainable community.”

Stephanie Rivera is the community engagement editor. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter at @StephRivera88.