Launch Hospital-Linked Violence Intervention Program

Description

Pilot Akron's first hospital-linked violence intervention program (HVIP), designed to meet survivors of gun violence at the hospital bedside with support and resources to help break cycles of violence, retaliation, and trauma.

Why is This Important

A moment of crisis can also be a moment of change. By connecting gun violence survivors with support at the hospital bedside, this program helps people find a path forward by reducing retaliation, promoting healing, and making our community safer.

Initiative Wins

Partnered with Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and Minority Behavioral Health Group (MBHG) to design Akron's first HVIP pilot.
Established a dedicated HVIP coordinator position at MBHG to meet survivors at the bedside.
Passed legislation authorizing a City contract with MBHG to operate the pilot (December 2025).
Finalized the HVIP pilot program design.

Impact Spotlight

What We’ve Done This Quarter

Finalized the HVIP pilot program design.

What We’re Working on Next Quarter

Finalizing hospital protocols and staff training modules.
Completing partnership agreements between the City, hospitals, and MBHG ahead of launch.