Our Mission & Vision
The Goliath Youth Safety Initiative (GYSI) is a community-based violence prevention program dedicated to equipping young people with real-world safety, conflict resolution, and leadership skills. Rooted in education, mentorship, and community engagement, GYSI provides training that empowers youth to protect themselves and their peers while building stronger, safer neighborhoods.
Our training catalog includes workshops on conflict de-escalation, emotional regulation, self-defense, first aid, active threat response, situational awareness, and restorative justice practices. Each program is designed to reduce youth involvement in violence by replacing fear with skill, and isolation with community.
Our vision is a future where every young person—regardless of background—has access to the tools, confidence, and support to navigate crisis, lead with integrity, and build lasting peace in their communities.
Meet the Team
The Goliath Youth Safety Initiative Executive Leadership Team consists of dedicated professionals with expertise in violence prevention, mental health, education, and community advocacy. Each member brings a unique background and passion for empowering youth, fostering safer communities, and equipping families and educators with the tools to prevent firearm-related incidents. Together, we are committed to driving meaningful change, ensuring that every young person has access to safety education, behavioral health support, and restorative justice solutions that create lasting impact.
Trusted Training Partner: Safe Adults Safe Kids
Maggie Schleicher and Safe Adults Safe Kids are trusted partners in clinical and crisis de-escalation training. Their work equips professionals serving children and young adults with practical coregulation, verbal de-escalation, and trauma-informed safety skills that help adults respond calmly, protect youth, and reduce burnout. Learn more at safeadultssafekids.com.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Carynn Rudolph
Carynn Rudolph, Founder and Chief Tactical Officer of Goliath Tactical Firearms Training and a recognized leader in youth services, violence prevention, and community advocacy. With over a decade of experience in program development, restorative justice, and firearm safety education, she has dedicated her career after service in the Marine Corps to empowering youth and families through practical, community-driven solutions. Recognizing the urgent need for proactive, community-based solutions to youth firearm safety and mental health, she founded the Goliath Youth Safety Initiative (GYSI) in September 2024. Under her leadership, GYSI is dedicated to empowering youth, equipping families, and partnering with schools to create safer, more resilient communities.
