Brooklyn DA Looks to Expand Project Restore to Brownsville

"The community-based initiative aimed to de-escalate and reduce gang violence, limit law-enforcement interactions, and provide 30 young men ages 18 to 30 from two rival gangs or street crews with a holistic, structured path toward stability. The program offered education and workforce development, internships, life-skills training, individual and group therapy, and mentorship from former gang members on issues such as conflict resolution."

"The program had a 100 percent success rate: all participants graduated; seven enrolled in college, one completed high school, three enrolled in GED programs, and 43 percent earned employment credentials, according to Columbia University's Center for Justice post-evaluation report. Participants also contributed to community safety by holding speaking engagements and organizing community events."

"Gonzalez said programs like PRB contributed to a substantial reduction in shootings and homicides. The initiative in Bed Stuy led to a 28 percent drop in shooting incidents and a 22 percent decrease"

Project Restore Bed-Stuy (PRB), a community-based gang-violence intervention program launched in 2023, successfully served 30 young men ages 18-30 from rival gangs. The initiative, developed by the Kings County District Attorney's Office, Columbia University's Center for Justice, and partner organizations, provided education, workforce development, internships, life-skills training, therapy, and mentorship. All participants graduated, with seven enrolling in college, one completing high school, three entering GED programs, and 43% earning employment credentials. Participants also engaged in community safety efforts through speaking engagements and events. The program's success prompted planning for Project Restore Brownsville expansion and a March 11 brainstorming session at NYU to strengthen cross-agency collaboration and clarify organizational roles.

Read at Brownstoner