Washington Youth Gun Violence Prevention
Case Study
Reducing Youth Gun Violence Through Community-Based, Evidence-Based Interventions
EBA partnered with Washington State to strengthen community-based supports for high-risk youth by helping implement the cm-FIT model, which blends credible messenger mentoring with family-integrated transition services. This work advances Washington State youth gun violence prevention by providing consistent support, guidance, and family engagement to youth at greatest risk. Through coordinated implementation, training, and quality assurance, the initiative also aligns with broader prevention services for youth by expanding access to evidence-driven interventions that promote long-term stability and safety.
Problem
Youth Gun Violence & Limited Coordinated Support
Washington communities have faced the growing challenge of youth gun violence, often without coordinated or effective intervention strategies. In response, EBA partnered to advance Washington State youth gun violence prevention through community-based, evidence-driven interventions. Traditional systems struggled to provide trusted support or access to services that address root causes.
Solution
cm-FIT Model & Strategic Statewide Support
EBA works closely with Washington State to implement the cm-FIT model—Credible Messenger + Family Integrated Transitions—by:
- Offering technical assistance in program planning and development
- Delivering gold-standard programs to families, communities, and mental health providers
- Overseeing implementation and ensuring fidelity through quality assurance measures
- Building organizational capacity and aligning strategies with community needs
- Supporting data collection, outcomes analysis, and reporting
These efforts form part of broader prevention services for youth, ensuring that interventions reach those most at-risk and are delivered with fidelity statewide.
Outcome
Evidence-Based Impact and Community Trust
The cm-FIT model helps connect youth to responsive, culturally relevant support systems:
- Credible Messengers use lived experience to foster trust and engagement
- Family Integrated Transitions offers therapeutic support tailored to justice-involved youth and their families
- Public funds are managed with accountability and transparency to ensure high-impact results
- Program oversight and fidelity measures drive sustainability and long-term change
Solutions EBA Provided
Needs Assessment & Program Alignment
Identify ideal evidence-based programs and determine when and where they are most needed across the state to meet community needs effectively.
Implementation & Provider Support
Provide direct support to community-based agencies to help them successfully adopt and deliver evidence-based practices, including coaching and guidance throughout implementation.
Workforce & Provider Oversight
Monitor compliance with staffing standards and assist agencies in building policies that support recruitment, training, and retention.
Training & Capacity Coordination
Coordinate training partners and session schedules to ensure program staff receive the necessary training while maintaining service delivery.
Utilization & Referral Management
Manage referral processes to ensure timely, appropriate access to programs based on youth and family needs.
Quality, Evaluation & Stakeholder Engagement
Collaborate with partners to track fidelity and outcomes, evaluate performance, and provide stakeholders with tools and data to inform continuous improvement.
EBA’s Families First project expands evidence-based mental health services for DC youth and families.
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