Bridging the Gap: Youth Violence Reduction

Virginia Commonwealth University designed the Bridging the Gap program to address high rates of violence and intentional injury observed among youth in Richmond. Youth treated for intentional injury are at an increased risk of incurring injuries in the future. Bridging the Gap is a hospital-based intervention that includes a review of the incident, a discussion of conflict resolution strategies and risk factors for recidivism, exploration of coping skills, development of a safety plan, and linkages to community service providers.

Each family participating in the Bridging the Gap program receives case management services for six months following the incident. Case managers assist with finding stable housing, enrollment in educational and vocational programs, and accessing mental health services.

To develop a useful, sustainable and replicable model designed to reduce the risk of re-injury and mortality in Richmond area youths who have been previously hospitalized with violence related injuries including gunshot wounds, stab wounds, and assault injuries.

Over 50 youth have participated in the program. Bridging the Gap has partnered with over 10 local agencies to provide services to youth and families enrolled in the program.