The Central Ohio Youth Peacemakers Training Program and SAVE Awards Premiere is an annual program that began in 1997. It engages youth in learning how to become peacemakers in their schools and communities.
Each year youth in grades 3rd through 12th from Columbus and surrounding areas participate in the program by:
·Attending a one-day violence prevention training
·Working with SAVE staff to develop a unique and original violence prevention presentation in the form of video, live drama, music, written expression, movement (dance) or visual artistry.
·Participating in a citywide Peace Camp and neighborhood Peace March
·Participate in completing an evaluative process including pre-post tests and written essays
Each violence prevention presentation must contain a clear, concise message about what youth can do to prevent violence in their schools and communities. These presentations are revealed at the program’s finale celebration...TheSAVE Awards Premiere.
These dedicated young people are rewarded and honored as stars of the April premiere event. Thousands of central youth and families come to recognize, teach and empower each other to prevent violence and create peace through the creative arts and performances of the new youth peacemakers.
Since 1997, youth across Central Ohio have participated in the program. Even more youth have experienced the program through viewing the videos online, in schools, recreation centers, therapeutic groups and youth organizations as part of their violence prevention efforts. The SAVE Awards program is currently coordinated by SAVE staff member, Tracy Thornton.
Central Ohio Youth Peacemakers 
The Central Ohio Youth Peacemakers Training Program and SAVE Awards Premiere is an annual program that began in 1997. It engages youth in learning how to become peacemakers in their schools and communities. 
Support for the SAVE Awards Youth Peacemakers Training Program is provided by the Office of Homeland Security and Justice Programs