Current Situation
Gun violence in Portsmouth, VA, is a systemic crisis disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, intensifying cycles of trauma, economic instability, and community distrust. Fragmented violence prevention efforts, insufficient training, and deep-rooted mistrust between governmental institutions and the community significantly impact effective intervention. Studies indicate that fragmented community structures correlate with increased violence and poorer public health outcomes (Lanfear et al., 2020). Despite successful models such as Community Violence Intervention (CVI) programs and the Cure Violence model, Portsmouth's response remains uncoordinated, limiting its impact. Contributing factors include interpersonal conflicts, gang-related activities, and the illicit drug trade, all of which thrive in conditions of economic disparity, educational inequities, and systemic neglect.
What We've Done
Impact is measured not just by words, but by action. Through direct intervention and active community engagement, we’ve made a tangible difference in the lives of youth and families.
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De-escalation interventions in neighborhoods to prevent conflicts before they escalate.
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Violence intervention workshops and training that equip young people with essential conflict resolution skills.
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Basketball camps that foster teamwork, discipline, and mentorship.
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Educational trips to places like Busch Gardens, museums, and cultural landmarks, broadening horizons and providing enriching experiences.
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Collaborations with hospitals to support victims of violence and promote healing, working together to create safer communities.
By continuously expanding our reach, we are shaping a safer and more empowered future.
What We're Going To Do
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Conflict Resolution & Mediation: Positioning trained violence interrupters to de-escalate disputes before they escalate into violence.
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Mental Health & Trauma Support: Providing accessible counseling and mental health services to address trauma-related behaviors that contribute to violence.
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Youth Outreach & Mentorship: Engaging at-risk youth in mentorship, education, and job training programs to discourage gang involvement and criminal activity.
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Economic & Workforce Development: Implementing job training and vocational programs to address poverty-driven crime and reduce economic disparities.
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Substance Abuse Prevention & Treatment: Addressing the opioid and drug crises that often fuels gun violence through rehabilitation services and education.
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Community-Law Enforcement Relations: Fostering trust through community policing efforts, transparency, and collaboration with social services and public health officials.
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Data-Driven Policy Advocacy: Utilizing research and evidence to inform local policies, secure funding, and sustain long-term violence reduction initiatives.
CVI HUB
The implementation of CVI Hub consisting of a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach, the city of Portsmouth can expect significant and sustainable reductions in gun violence. The anticipated outcomes include:
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A decrease in shootings and violent crimes, paralleling successes in other cities where CVI models reduced shootings by up to 60% (Center for American Progress, 2023).
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Enhanced community trust in law enforcement and public institutions that fosters increased civic engagement and cooperation in violence prevention efforts.
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Improved social and economic mobility for disenfranchised populations through job opportunities, education, and mentorship.
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Reduced trauma-related mental health crises.
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Collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring a sustainable, long-term strategy for violence reduction in the city of Portsmouth.