Health care, government and community leaders – including former president and Chappaqua resident Bill Clinton – came together at the fifth annual Gun Violence Prevention Forum Tuesday in New York City. 

According to officials, gun injuries were the leading cause of death for ages 1-19 for three years in a row. 

"Gun violence is not a policy issue anymore, it is a public health crisis, and it is time to treat it that way," said Michelle Hillman, chief campaign development officer for the Ad Council. 

Northwell Health has partnered with the Ad Council to provide funding for a $10 million gun violence prevention initiative. 

The initiative is part of a $40 million fundraising goal over the next two years to reduce gun death and injuries in the United States. 

The funding is provided by the National Health Care CEO Council on Gun Violence Prevention and Safety.