E X P O S I T I O N .store
"Where working together works for the better"
We believe that lack of effective, personalized strategies has left too many individuals vulnerable to criminal activity. With our evidence-based program designs, we fill that gap - empowering people to build better lives and, in turn, creating safer, stronger communities. We understand that sustainable violence reduction requires more than just intervention - it demands transformation. That's why we design and implement supportive programs tailored to at-risk populations, helping participants overcome the barriers that lead to criminal behavior. Our innovative programs are rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care, focusing on developing resilience against peer pressure and negative social influence.
Did you know that a recent survey found that over 70% of community violence reduction programs struggle to engage at-risk populations effectively? After reviewing some of the latest studies, we analyzed the root causes of these challenges and discovered that many programs lack tailored, trauma-informed approaches that resonate with the communities they serve.
That's where our consulting practice comes in. Our cutting-edge, evidence-based strategies focus on innovative solutions designed to deepen impact, engage participants, and scale what works. By benchmarking your program against proven models, we chart a clear path to measurable success, helping you set new standards in violence reduction. Ready for a new approach that delivers real results? Let's partner to drive meaningful and enduring change where outcomes work.
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GALLERY
WHO WE ARE
1 I OPEN, LLC
1 I OPEN, LLC is an Akron, OH-based practitioner group organized to help communities address violence by offering a combination of street-level expertise, academic insights, and data-driven interventions - by designing programs focused on sustainable cost-effective strategies that reduce violence, improve community health, and create measurable cost savings for local governments - while empowering high-violence urban neighborhoods to maintain long-term peace and safety.
By leveraging our comprehensive understanding of 'street' culture from lived experience combined with insights from sociology, psychology and convict criminology, we are equipped to work with community stakeholders and policymakers to design, implement and measure effective crime and recidivism reduction strategies based on empirical research and community needs.
WOOH CONSULTING
We believe that meaningful change happens at the intersection of empathy and evidence. Our team works with community leaders, correctional facilities, probation departments, and other stakeholders to design programs and touchpoints that target the unique needs of vulnerable populations. Our programmatic approach is to integrate key elements into a violence intervention program that ensures frequent, meaningful, and multi-dimensional touchpoints that address the individual's needs, builds trust, and encourages sustained behavior change.
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In the aftermath of the nation's longest and deadliest Lucasville (SOCF) prison riot of 1993 in Ohio, our Principal served as the chairman of the Inmate Liaison Committee, a role critical to restoring order and creating lasting change within Mansfield Correctional Institution, which absorbed SOCF's overflow population. Tasked with alleviating tensions and reducing violence, our leader successfully led an innovative transformation that reshaped a close-maximum security prison into a positive and thriving hub for education and programming activities.
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Through collaborative efforts, trust was established between prisoners and staff, forward-thinking initiatives were introduced, and the facility gradually became a model of progress where educational and rehabilitative programs served as the cornerstone of prison life. Then-warden, Dennis A. Baker, bravely focused on rehabilitation and creating an environment where prisoners could develop valuable skills and a sense of purpose. A storied risk-mitigating visionary and pioneering leader, Warden Baker's programs consistently reduced violence and empowered individuals to return as productive, contributing citizens. His leadership set a new standard for correctional programming, balancing public safety with opportunities for personal growth and community betterment.
MEET THE TEAM
Darnell
A U.S. Navy and Gulf War veteran, Darnell brings exceptional leadership and strategic expertise to his role as Managing Partner. With C-Suite level consulting skills, Darnell's military background instilled a commitment to discipline, resilience, and mission-driven results, which he applies in driving transformational change when tasked with guiding organizations toward operational excellence and innovation.
Jo’Von
As our experienced Public Safety Consultant known for her outgoing personality and infectiously optimistic approach to problem-solving, Jo'Von brings a deep passion for empowering youth and advocating for LGBTQ+communities. Dedicated to creating inclusive, safe, and supportive environments, Jo'Von exudes a dynamic energy and enthusiasm for inspiring positive change, while her expertise in public safety strategies ensures impactful, lasting solutions combined with a unique blend of compassion and strategic insight to every project she leads.
Nyree
Nyree is a dynamic Masters HBCU-graduated Associate Consultant with a diverse background in teaching and sports. As a former Division I volleyball talent, recruited to play for both Ohio University and Morgan State University, Nyree brings extensive athletic experience across multiple sports. Having played and coached in volleyball, basketball (including the LA Sparks), and baseball, Nyree leverages a unique perspective on teamwork, leadership, and discipline. Passionate about youth empowerment and charitable causes, Nyree is dedicted to making a positive impact through sports and community service.
Sania
Sania is our enthusiastic, globe-trotting software engineering Associate Consultant who leads prototype development with innovative solutions. While actively pursuing her Master's degree in the United Kingdom, she balances academic growth with her passion for making a difference. Sania volunteers with The Citizens' Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to educating poor and disadvantaged children, reflecting her commmitment to social impact and empowerment through education. Sania's dedication to both her professional career and charitable causes showcases her drive to create meaningful change on a global scale.
Phillip
Phillip is the Principal Consultant and Lead Criminologist behind 1 I OPEN, LLC, a recognized expert in Community Violence Intervention Program Initiatives, and a registered Peer Reviewer for the U.S. Office of Justice Programs. Phillip built upon a track-record of extensive complex civil litigation experience improving conditions of confinement; served as a Laubach literacy tutor, created the groundbreaking Optimal Community Oriented Supervision Management Intranet Connection (OCOSMIC) app and methodology; assembled the innovative Incarcerate By Half Ecosystem (IBHE) model; designed & facilitated ex-offender peer support groups; coached & advised Reentry Coalition Coordinators; and authored the book, Black & Brown NorthStar Innovation: A Community Violence Intervention Ecosystem Model That Accelerates Justice System Reform (2024), available on Amazon.com. Phillip's thought leadership has been credited for influencing the new direction of the OJP's Smart Supervision solicitation aims starting in March of 2024.