The Initiative uses a unique community-based approach to violence prevention that focuses not just on traditional approaches to crime reduction—such as law enforcement—but on improving a broad range of indicators that are directly correlated with high rates of violence in communities, such as the lack of economic opportunity and constructive activities for youth, blight and physical deterioration, and the absence of strong networks among community residents.

Community Building Coordinators are working in each neighborhood to organize residents so that they become involved in developing their own violence prevention plans and acquire the leadership capacity to effectively advocate for and undertake community improvement projects. Examples of community projects underway in the two neighborhoods include: block clean-ups, reclaiming neighborhood parks, organizing around liquor store nuisances, and planting community gardens.

In addition, the Community Building Coordinators link families to a range of supports and services—such as job training, after school activities for youth, and crisis response for families affected by violence—that will lead to family self-sufficiency and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.