Violent Crime Initiative (VCI)
Reimagining Public Safety by Investing in Young People
YEAH Philly's Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) is a community-based alternative to incarceration and traditional supervision for young people charged with serious offenses. Rather than relying on punishment, VCI addresses the underlying barriers that contribute to violence by providing individualized advocacy, legal support, education, employment pathways, conflict resolution, peer mediation, and intensive case management.
We believe that accountability and opportunity can exist together. Every young person deserves access to trusted adults, meaningful opportunities, and the support needed to build a stable future.
What We Do
VCI partners with courts, attorneys, probation departments, hospitals, schools, and community organizations to provide comprehensive, wraparound support for young people ages 15–24 who are at the highest risk of continued legal system involvement and charged with a gun or violent crime.
Each participant receives an individualized plan built around their goals and strengths, with services that may include:
- Court advocacy and legal navigation
- Intensive case management
- Crisis intervention and violence interruption
- Education, literacy, and GED support
- Employment readiness and paid workforce opportunities
- Conflict mediation and restorative practices
- Mental health and wellness referrals
- Transportation, emergency assistance, and flexible supports
- Family engagement and systems navigation
Our staff walk alongside young people both inside and outside the courtroom: helping them overcome barriers, meet expectations, and build long-term stability.
A Different Model
Most legal system responses focus on managing risk, while VCI focuses on reducing it. Our approach combines lived experience, clinical expertise, legal advocacy, and community relationships to address the conditions that often lead to violence. Instead of asking, "What's wrong with this young person?" we ask, "What happened, and what support is needed for them to succeed in our communities?"
This person-centered model improves public safety by helping young people remain connected to education, employment, positive relationships, and their communities. Please email teens@yeahphilly.org if you are interested in obtaining a VCI referral form.