Violence Intervention Unit

The Violence Intervention Unit is responsible for the development, implementation and oversight of programs designed to combat gangs and violence throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. It specializes in working with gang-involved youth and youth who have a history of violence in an effort to provide them with the skills necessary to be successful in life. This unit uses evidenced-based approaches to addressing gangs and violence both in the juvenile correctional center and community. The Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) programming is expected to be implemented in all 30 of the state-funded court service units across the state. This program is endorsed by the Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) as a means of prevention.

Violence Intervention

WHAT IS THE G.R.E.A.T. PROGRAM?

  • Evidence-based prevention program
  • Immunize against delinquency, youth violence, and gang membership
  • Develop positive relationships with law enforcement
  • Law enforcement officer-instructed curriculum that teaches youth:
    • Life-skills competencies
    • Goal Setting
    • Empathy and Pride for the Community
    • Violence-prevention and conflict-resolution techniques
    • Decision-making and problem-solving skills

G.R.E.A.T.’S FOCUS

  • Vision: Building safer communities one child at a time
  • Mission: Prevent youth crime, violence, and gang involvement
  • Slogan: Choose to be G.R.E.A.T.

Objectives

  • Help youth avoid gang membership
  • Prevent violence and criminal activity
  • Develop positive relationships with law enforcement