The gathering came as officials reported significant progress: homicides in the city are down 27% and nonfatal shootings have dropped 24%, according to the Office of Violence Prevention. Still, officials cautioned that the work is far from over.

This year's summit centered on the theme "Where Violence Ends" and featured panel discussions highlighting the people and programs addressing violence in Louisville. Organizers said the event is designed to let those in the violence reduction space meet one another, share resources and coordinate their efforts.

"This is a place for people who are in the violence reduction space who have resources, who have programs, to be able to meet one another, to learn from each other, and really focus their resources," an organizer said.

Among the panelists was 23-year-old Nelly Fletcher, who is part of the Office of Violence Prevention's re-entry program. Fletcher shared how the program's support has helped him navigate life since his release from prison in July.

"If I didn't have these resources, honestly, I don't know how I'd be," Fletcher said. "So it's definitely a hard struggle in society with not having somebody to help you or even having the simple fact if somebody said, 'It's going to be OK. I'm here for you.'"

Attendees at the summit exchanged ideas, discussed available resources and connected with others working to reduce violence. Organizers said those conversations are an important part of prevention, allowing organizations to learn from one another and better align their efforts.

While the declines in homicides and shootings mark progress, organizers say continued collaboration and community involvement will be critical to keeping that momentum going.