Baltimore, Charlotte, NC and Dallas announced that they will launch new Violence Interruption services delivered YAP, a national nonprofit more widely known for its family-based alternatives to youth incarceration and out-of-home placement. Informed by its evidence-based, quickly expanding youth justice systems services, YAP’s Violence Interruption programs are now also helping cities reform public safety. Here are some quotes from YAP’s press release:
“I am proud of our partnership with Youth Advocate Programs, and I commend their violence interruption efforts in Baltimore,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “As my administration continues to reimagine public safety, YAP’s commitment to tackling violent crime through a public health lens is critical to reforming public safety in Baltimore.”
“We know that the established model for community safety must continue to evolve with the world around us in order to be successful,” said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. “The methodology of Cure Violence Global is designed to neutralize threats of violence before the need to involve law enforcement and that is a real game changer. Given YAP’s success in implementing this model in other cities, I’m excited to see to see the organization begin work in Charlotte and to track the results.”
“Mecklenburg County is excited to expand its partnership with YAP to help provide resources as a means of deterring violence within the community,” said George Dunlap, Chairman, Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners. “I am hopeful that YAP’s intervention model can serve as a starting point in using a holistic approach to violence prevention strategies for individuals who need it the most.”
“We cannot and should not rely on police alone to stop the violent crime increases in our city,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “Violence interrupters, which were highly recommended by my Task Force on Safe Communities, will stop conflicts before they become violent and can help our people and our neighborhoods to grow and thrive. That is why we are thrilled to partner with Youth Advocate Programs as we work to make our communities stronger, safer, and more prosperous."