A Healing-Centered Approach to Preventing Urban Gun Violence: The Advance Peace Model — Jason Corburn, DeVone Boggan, Khaalid Muttaqi, Sam Vaughn, James Houston, Julius Thibodeaux, & Brian Muhammad (2021)

This article examines Advance Peace, a violence-reduction program that treats gun violence as a product of trauma and structural disadvantage.

Rather than emphasizing punishment, it focuses on healing, mentorship, conflict mediation, and intensive support for those most likely to shoot or be shot.

1. Violence Is Concentrated, Not Widespread

2. Trauma and Structural Conditions Fuel Violence

3. Healing Is More Effective Than Punishment Alone

4. Trusted Relationships Drive Change

5. Intensive Support Can Reduce Violence

⭐ Star Facts

• A very small number of individuals drive a disproportionate share of urban gun violence.
• Black males aged 15–34 experienced a firearm homicide rate of 81.5 per 100,000 in 2019.
• Advance Peace was associated with a 55% reduction in gun homicides and assaults in Richmond.
• The program focuses on the 20–30 most influential high-risk individuals within a community.
• Participants receive an individualized 18-month Peacemaker Fellowship.
• Mentors are former offenders from the same communities, serving as “credible messengers” and “wounded healers.”
• Many fellows entered the program with extensive trauma: 85% had previously been shot, 84% had been incarcerated, and 61% had lost someone close to murder. ⭐
• In Sacramento, 72% reported an improved outlook on life after participation.
• 84% reported having a trusted adult to talk to when facing difficult situations.
• 68% reported peacefully resolving a conflict that might previously have involved a gun.
• The program argues that violence is often an adaptation to trauma rather than simply criminal intent.