April 9, 2024
Youth Development Inc. works on therapeutic approach to teen violence
Youth Development Inc. (YDI) in Albuquerque is seeing success with a redesigned therapeutic approach to its violence prevention program, ABQ Against Violence. The program, now funded by the City of Albuquerque, mirrors an evidence-based model and uses licensed therapists and case managers to help participants, aged 16-26, cope with trauma and life stressors without turning to violence.
The article highlights participant Ezekial Ulibarri, who joined after facing consequences for following a social media trend. He now finds motivation in the program. While the program has the capacity for 50 participants and currently serves 46, CEO Robert Chavez notes that securing funding to retain staff and expand remains a challenge. Success is measured by engagement and recidivism; of the current participants, only three have reoffended. The organization is hopeful that proposed city budget increases will allow them to continue their work.