The Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Fort Worth program is struggling to survive after recent budget cuts led to the layoffs of 10 employees, significantly impacting its ability to serve at-risk youth. Once staffed with 21 neighborhood change agents who provided mentorship and resources, the program’s future hangs in the balance due to uncertain funding following Congressional appropriations that excluded its crucial support from the One Second Collaborative, a partnership designed to combat gun violence in the community.
Despite these challenges, VIP Fort Worth Director Bishop Rodney McIntosh emphasizes the program’s vital role and the connections it offers to essential services. McIntosh and United Way’s Shon Dorsey are advocating for new funding opportunities to sustain and enhance the collaborative’s outreach, which has taken steps to improve mental health, education, and employment resources for local young men. The ongoing efforts highlight a community commitment to preventing gun violence and fostering pathways for youth in Fort Worth.
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