Emerging Leaders

A Youth Violence Reduction Initiative

Program Description

The Youth Violence Prevention Initiative is a hospital/community based violence prevention program which began in 2015. VCU Health is partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond (BCGMR), the VCU Police Department (VCUPD), and the Richmond Police Department (RPD) in an effort to reduce the high prevalence of youth violence in the city of Richmond.

“Youth violence is a significant public health crisis”

Emerging Leaders is a high school program that strives to provide youth with the following:

• Case management, group sessions, internships, mentoring, and programs that encourage positive behavior with healthy outcomes.
• Exposure to activities that enhance skills which enable positive choices.
• Projects and activities that promote teamwork, collaboration, philanthropy, financial responsibility, and healthy relationship skills. 
• Opportunities to explore different healthcare related career fields while being equipped with skills and knowledge necessary to pursue their goals successfully. 

Upon completion, students will display leadership qualities that will propel them to success and break the cycle of violence in their communities. 

Program Requirements:

• Age 14-18
• Rising 9th grader or high school student

Contact Information: 

Email us:  EmergingLeaders@vcuhealth.org