Institute for Violence Prevention and Reduction

Overview

The Institute for Violence Prevention & Reduction is a source for relevant information on violence. Through our work we seek to provide a context for violence. It is our belief that by understanding violence and its causes, we can develop effective violence reduction programs.

Mission

As part of our mission, IVPR will:

• Serve as a catalyst and support for collaboration among diverse groups who seek relevant information on violence reduction;
• Work with policy makers to develop more effective approaches and policies for violence reduction;
• Share and disseminate information that will help to promote understanding of violence and its causes;
• Study violence reduction initiatives through research, training and program evaluation; and
• Identify and design effective violence reduction initiatives.

History

The Institute for Violence Prevention and Reduction was established in 1993 at the University of Connecticut School of Social Work. For its first ten years, the Institute was directed by Dr. Michael Borrero. He brought over 30 years of experience working with street gangs to the Institute's efforts. Under his leadership, the Institute initiated a mediation program, hosted a "Peace Picnic", and organized two major conferences and conducted training and workshops at the local, state and, national levels.

In the past, the Institute has received funding from a variety of sources, including the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, Hartford Housing Authority, Department of Social Services, Office of Policy and Management, and the Sisters of Saint Joseph.