Violence Prevention & Intervention Division (VPI)
The Right Response at the Right Time
The Violence Prevention & Intervention (VPI) Division is an integral part of the Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Department, designed to address the root causes of trauma and violence in our community. VPI provides a range of specialized programs to support individuals and families experiencing challenges such as addiction, domestic violence, gun violence, and youth violence.
At its core, VPI embodies the ACS philosophy of “the right response at the right time.” With a focus on collaboration, VPI complements the behavioral health and crisis response work of ACS by providing long-term support, prevention services, and recovery-focused care.
Hear From Our Team
On Gun Violence Awareness Day, one of our team members shared why this work is critical to the community and how we can break cycles of trauma and violence.
A unique strength of VPI is its peer-led approach. Three of its five programs are staffed by individuals with lived experience, who bring empathy and understanding to their work, helping build trust and foster resilience in those they serve. Across all programs, VPI connects individuals with specialists who understand their specific needs, ensuring tailored, trauma-informed care that helps people stabilize and rebuild their lives.
Tailored Solutions for Every Need
Each VPI program is designed to address specific challenges, ensuring individuals and families receive appropriate support and resources.
Community-Oriented Response & Assistance (CORA)
Supports community healing after traumatic events, helping victims of crime, abuse, or trafficking access resources and regain stability.
Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP)
Peer-Led
Provides overdose follow-up support, connects individuals to recovery services, expands naloxone access, and trains community members in naloxone use. This trauma-informed program also supports families impacted by overdose, helping to end cycles of addiction.
Violence Intervention Program (VIP)
Peer-Led
Designed to reduce gun violence, VIP works directly with individuals at the highest risk of perpetrating or becoming victims of violence. The program engages participants to prevent retaliation, promote safety, and disrupt cycles of violence.
Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program (HVIP)
Peer-Led
Partners with hospitals to provide trauma-informed care, safety planning, and long-term support for victims of violent injury. Engaging patients during hospital recovery offers a critical opportunity to reduce retaliation and recurring violence while connecting them with resources for continued care.
School-Based Violence Intervention Program (SBVIP)
Helps at-risk youth through mentorship and intervention, addressing the root causes of violence in schools. Full-time specialists at each participating campus support students and families by navigating challenges and fostering long-term success.
Why It Matters
The VPI Division plays a critical role in building a stronger, safer Albuquerque. By addressing trauma and breaking cycles of violence, these programs foster healing, stability, and resilience across our community. Whether through peer mentorship, specialized intervention, or long-term recovery support, VPI helps individuals and families move forward, creating lasting change for generations to come.
Need Support?
If you or someone you know could benefit from these programs, we’re here to help.
Call: 505-768-4227
Email: [email protected]