CARY School-based Violence Prevention and Intervention Program

The Council on At-Risk Youth (CARY) will implement the CARY School-based Violence Prevention and Intervention Program to expand its reach to five middle and high schools across Austin and Manor Independent School Districts in Texas. This project aims to provide comprehensive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based programming during school hours for students at risk of entering the school-to-prison pipeline. Criteria for involvement include a referral from school administration, self, or guardian with students having at least one serious behavioral incident report on file. The targeted schools are Dobie, Martin, and Kealing Middle Schools and Northeast Early College High School. This proactive approach addresses the needs of vulnerable youth who have shown signs of violence, victimization, and predictors of juvenile delinquency.

Key project activities include group and individual counseling, case management, goal-setting assistance, mentoring, coaching, and service-learning project exposure. The program targets 500 students aged 13-18 and their guardians per academic year, aiming to increase school attendance, reduce disciplinary referrals, improve grades, enhance school and community climate, and decrease youth violence both on and off school campuses. This proactive approach addresses the needs of vulnerable youth who have shown signs of violence, victimization, and predictors of juvenile delinquency. Addressing violence requires a multifaceted approach which includes preventive measures, evidence-based intervention strategies, and community support systems. One effective component involves investing in youth violence prevention, yielding long-term benefits by fostering safer communities, reducing crime rates, and improving the overall health of the public. By addressing the root causes of youth violence early, society can break cycles of intergenerational trauma and create pathways to positive development for future generations.