Community 1st

“The “Community First Initiative” is a VML award winning Community Violence Intervention program that uses a 5-tier APPROACH to promote a healthier landscape that can support Violence Intervention, Problem De-escalation, Information Coordination & Community Relationship building.

Community 1ST Initiative

We are excited to announced that we recently entered into a partnership with “Guns Down” and the City of Norfolk to provide CVI support in Youngs Terrace via our “Community First Initiative”. The “Community First Initiative” uses a 5-tier approach to promote a healthier landscape that can support Violence Intervention, Problem De-escalation, Information Coordination & Community Relationship building.

5 Tiered Approach

Violence De-Escalation:

Set of strategies that calm emotions, reduce perceived threat, and create time/space so a situation can move toward safety and resolution without force.

Physical Presence

Visibility, Interaction, Communication, Engagement

Community Engagement:

Events & Activities to Build Trust,  Incentive For Success, Support Local Initiatives, Creating Conversation & Engagement, Increasing Parental Involvement

Emergency Response:

Assess, Control, Tools, Support, All Hands On Deck Approach to emergencies that arise

Information Collection:

Info & Relationships That Leads to Deescalation of Violence & Violent Situations

Our Community

Community Testimonial

This is yet another testimonial directly from the community we serve, underscoring the impact of our efforts at Community 1ST. The most rewarding aspect of our mission lies in the authentic relationships we develop with community members and the transformative changes we witness in their lives. Each story shared affirms our commitment to serving the community and motivates us to continue making a meaningful difference through our programs and services by Community 1ST.