CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The goal of violence prevention services like the Alternatives to Violence program is to stop violence before it starts.
The program targets at-risk youths and young adults aged 14-25, knowing that certain people are at risk of becoming a victim or even committing a violent crime unless someone gets to them first to help de-escalate the situation.
THE SOLUTION
That’s where the 'violence interrupters' come in. They are volunteers who know the pitfalls that these teens and young adults face. They build connections and provide the at-risk person with someone to speak and calm down, stopping a potentially violent incident from happening.
A recent report by UNC Charlotte shows some positive signs that the program is working.
Today the city will consider expanding the program to the West Boulevard area and also adding Nations Ford, Arrowwood and Remount Road neighborhoods. They're hoping for more successful outcomes in those areas, knowing that there is still lots of work to be done.
"Violence is a problem but what I will say is until we address the underlying issues that cause violence then we're not gonna stop violence," ATV Site Supervisor Leondra Garrett said.
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