More than 18,000 people in the United States lost their lives to homicide in 2023. The impact of this violence extends beyond victims, inflicting lasting harm on families, first responders, and entire communities. Using data-informed strategies is essential for understanding the risk factors contributing to these tragedies, enabling interest holders to develop targeted interventions that can disrupt cycles of violence and strengthen community safety.
How We Help
The Justice and Prevention Research Center’s new initiative, the Violence Prevention Navigation Framework (VPNF), assists leaders in gaining a clearer understanding of the factors contributing to or preventing violence within their communities—helping them promote safe and just futures for children, youth, and adults. With VPNF, local and state leaders working in violence prevention systems benefit from the following:
- A New Data-Driven Approach
VPNF combines collective knowledge from local government and community-based partners with local data to prioritize, assess, and develop appropriate strategies to reduce and prevent gun violence. - Thoughtful Recommendations for Leaders
VPNF uses thorough risk analysis and identification of protective factors to provide leaders with evidence-based recommendations, enabling them to make informed policy decisions. - Capacity to Strengthen Community Safety
By analyzing local data on violence and conducting a thorough assessment of existing programs, VPNF helps jurisdictions reduce and proactively prevent violence, rectify historical inequities, and foster healthier communities.
Contact Our Experts
Learn how the JPRC can inform your efforts to prevent gun violence with the Violence Prevention Navigation Framework.
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Our Experts
Lori Toscano
Director of Justice Technical Assistance
Shaun Ali
Senior Justice Technical Assistance Specialist
Kerwin Henderson
Senior Justice Technical Assistance Specialist