Violence Intervention Program Division (VIP)
Discover how ACS’s Violence Intervention Program (VIP) Division serves to reduce community violence especially on gun violence, intimate partner violence and youth violence utilizing a public health approach. The division provides specialized support to address trauma and break cycles of violence in Albuquerque.
Building Safety Through Support
The Violence Intervention Program (VIP) Division is an integral part of the Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Department, designed to address the root causes of trauma and violence in our community. VIP provides a range of specialized programs to support individuals and families experiencing challenges such as addiction, domestic violence, gun violence, and youth violence.
At its core, VIP embodies the ACS philosophy of “the right response at the right time.” With a focus on collaboration, VIP complements the behavioral health and crisis response work of ACS by providing long-term support, prevention services, and recovery-focused care. ACS is pioneering a modern approach through its community-based mental health crisis response programs.
Pathways to Safety, Stability, and Healing
The division is based out of the City of Albuquerque's Trauma Recovery Center. Each VIP program offers comprehensive and community-centered services to individuals and families impacted by violence or trauma. It combines assertive outreach, advocacy, evidence-based mental health support, and comprehensive case management to address specific challenges, ensuring individuals and families—especially those least likely to receive services—have access to appropriate support and resources.
The Trauma Recovery Center model prioritizes safety, compassion, and timely support for people impacted by violence. Using a public safety-first responder approach, individuals are quickly connected to trauma-informed care and services that support healing and stability. The six specialty VIP teams walk alongside individuals and families, offering consistent support and connections to trusted community resources. This approach promotes recovery, restores hope, and supports healing across the community.
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Community-Oriented Response & Assistance (CORA)
Responds to crises and trauma while providing support and promoting community healing.
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Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP)
A peer-led program that supports people living with addiction and overdose survivors by raising opioid overdose awareness, expanding Narcan access, and connecting individuals to follow-up care and treatment.
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Violence Intervention Program (VIP)
A peer led program supporting individuals who may be at risk of violence. Peers support workers, build trust, help reduce retaliation and support safer choices that promote community safety.
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Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program (HBVIP)
A peer-led, hospital-based program that supports patients after violent injuries by providing bedside peer support focused on safety, recovery, and connection to ongoing care after discharge.
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School-Based Violence Intervention Program (SBVIP)
A full time, on campus, mentorship program designed to reduce violence and substance use among high risk students.
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Youth Violence Intervention Program (SBVIP)
Focuses on high-risk youth disconnected from school, work, or support systems.
Why It Matters
Through strong partnerships with community-based organizations, the VIP Division takes an innovative, trauma-informed approach that bridges public safety and public health. By working in hospitals, supporting diversion and community-based violence prevention, expanding access to victim and survivor services, and tailoring responses to individual needs, VIP strengthens systems and delivers care where it has the greatest impact.
Need Support?
If you or someone you know could benefit from these programs, we’re here to help.
Call: 505-768-4227
Email: [email protected]