For years, we’ve been told there is only one path to public safety: more policing, more punishment, more surveillance.
But in 2025, something powerful—and undeniable—happened.
Communities proved there is another way.
Across the country, where investments were made in Community Violence Intervention (CVI)—violence dropped.
- In Berkeley, CA: 37% reduction in shots fired and 100% reduction in homicides
- In Orlando, FL: 88% reduction in homicides over three years
These are not theories.
These are lives saved.
And these outcomes didn’t happen by accident.
They happened because of intentional action:
- Funding was protected and expanded for CVI programs
- Credible messengers were trained and deployed
- Faith leaders and organizers built trust where systems had failed
- Community-based infrastructure was strengthened and sustained
As the report shows, violence declined where communities invested in prevention—not punishment
Why This Matters
There is a growing push to return to a “tough on crime” model rooted in enforcement alone.
But the data tells a different story.
When communities are resourced:
- Violence decreases
- Trust increases
- Long-term safety becomes sustainable
This is not just safer—it’s smarter.
The Bottom Line
CVI is not an alternative idea. It is a proven solution.
And the work of Live Free helped create the conditions for that success:
- Securing funding
- Defending programs from cuts
- Organizing leaders to implement real solutions
Take Action
If we want to expand what works, we must invest in it.
Support the movement that is saving lives—without increasing harm.
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