DeKalb County officials describe six‑month community violence intervention pilot, cite mediations and services delivered

DeKalb County Department of Human Services staff on the county’s Planning, Economic Development and Community Services Committee said a six‑month pilot of a community violence intervention (CVI) model reached residents in 15 targeted neighborhoods and enrolled dozens of participants while the department continues to spend a $1,500,000 federal planning grant.

The pilot aimed to “interrupt cycles of violence, foster trust and positive engagement, engage in public safety, promote community ownership and expand access to resources and services,” Human Services staff member Yuzette Hill said during the presentation. "We accomplished all of those objectives," Hill said.

The nut graf: Commissioners heard quantitative results and on‑the‑ground examples meant to justify continued funding and expansion. County staff and partner Hope Hustlers described community events, mediations in heated disputes, food and turkey giveaways, and case management that the presenters said reduced demand for police response in some instances.

Deborah Furtado of DeKalb County Human Services said the CVI work is funded by a federal…