Teen Connect

What is Teen Connect?

Teen Connect is where teens can find places to go, things to do, ways to learn, and opportunities for growth.

Learn more about our approach and how to get involved.

Pillars of our Approach

• Prevention First to address root causes of violence before they happen.
  • Starting in schools and neighborhoods.
• Safe After-School Programs for strong futures.
  •  A safe place to be, positive role models, and opportunities to grow.
• Pathways to Success from classrooms to careers
  • We're creating clear paths for young people to thrive.
• Year-Round Engagement during out-of-school time.
  • Access to enriching activities after school, during breaks, and throughout the summer.
• Community Partnership Work
  • Schools, city programs, nonprofits, and businesses are working together to achieve these outcomes.

School-Based Violence Intervention Program (SBVIP)

Embedded at four high schools, SBVIP reduces suspensions, boosts GPAs, and supports graduation through conflict mediation, family stabilization, case management, and mental health support.

In 2024/25, SBVIP had:

• 94 intakes
• 74 active cases
• GPA gains at two campuses
• 40% fewer suspensions at West Mesa
• 83% graduation rate among eligible seniors

Mayor Keller, Albuquerque Community Safety, and students participating in SBVIP at West Mesa High School attend  Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) Board Meeting. Mayor Keller talked about the outcomes of the collaborative effort between the City and APS to prevent and reduce gun violence in Albuquerque schools.

Year of Non-Violence

A citywide, year-round expansion of the Summer of Non-Violence, fostering peace through youth leadership, events, and resources. Highlights include:

• Youth Ambassadors leading school-based projects and social media campaigns
• Community Events like Trunk or Treat and Holiday Gift Giveaway
• On-site Supports connecting families to counseling, mentorship, job training, and after-school programs
• Workshops on conflict resolution, digital citizenship, healthy relationships, and financial literacy

Teen Out-of-School Programs (Ages 13–19)

Safe, consistent after-school and break-time programs at City centers and APS sites offering homework help, STEM, arts, sports, recreation, and mentorship. Includes free daily meals at 31 sites (~6,300 meals/week) through the Supper Meal Program.

Career Readiness & Academies

In partnership with APS, Career Academies blend academics with career pathways like Healthcare, IT, Skilled Trades, Business, Creative Industries, and more. Students gain coursework, work-based learning, internships, industry credentials, and mentorship—preparing them for college and careers. Pilots begin at Cibola, Manzano, and Highland in 2025, with districtwide expansion in 2026.

CABQ Internships & Apprenticeships

City departments host paid student placements (e.g., Parks, Planning, IT, ACS) aligned with Career Academies, with wraparound supports like counseling and conflict mediation.

Bank on Burque

Youth financial empowerment program (ages 14–19) providing safe banking access, money management skills, workshops, and direct-deposit setup for youth jobs and internships.