Zones attempt to stem violence by providing mentorship, guidance, social development, job training and an effective environment for learning, among other tools, to help gang members and at-risk youth break free and become successful in life, crime-free and violence-free.
[2] The model for Violence-Free Zones was developed by the Center for Neighborhood Enterprise and is based on the principle that lack of parental involvement and guidance is at the root of violence among youth in these high-risk communities.
[2][1] Participating cities include Washington, D.C., Hartford, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Milwaukee, Richmond (Virginia) and others.
Key to the program are Youth Advisors, young adults from the neighborhood who have overcome similar obstacles and have the respect of students.
Community Partners and the school work together to provide guidance, social development, job readiness programs.