Reducing Youth Gun Violence Through Community-Based, Evidence-Based Interventions
Since 2017, EBA has partnered with Virginia’s Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to implement a statewide continuum of evidence-based services. This partnership supports the Commonwealth’s juvenile justice transformation by promoting effective community-based alternatives and coordinated care.
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. 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
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
115
+
Years of combined experience
20
+
Evidence-based models supported
30
+
States and counties served
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.
District of Columbia
EBA’s Families First project expands evidence-based mental health services for DC youth and families.
