Harrisburg’s Group Violence Intervention Program
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Asia Tabb
Aired; May 13th, 2025.
In Harrisburg, a small team is taking a new approach to curb gun violence—one that places empathy, community engagement, and early intervention at its core. Group Violence Intervention (GVI), led by Angelo Bailey and Gina Vasquez, aims to interrupt cycles of violence by connecting high-risk individuals with resources, not just repercussions. The program, supported by law enforcement but driven by community partnership, is actively shifting the narrative around crime prevention.
“I’ve come up with a new term which is pre-active,” said Bailey, describing the GVI model. “It’s preventive for some and reactive for others—maybe those who are already incarcerated. But we offer resources to help them make a hard pivot in their lives.”
Unlike traditional policing, GVI isn’t led by law enforcement. It targets individuals most at risk for gun violence—whether victims or offenders—before violence erupts or escalates. GVI representatives like Bailey and Vasquez identify candidates through schools, probation offices, courts, and police referrals, engaging both adults and minors.
The approach is person-centered, often beginning with conversations on street corners or outside homes.
“We’re not policing. What we do is engage,” said Vasquez. “If I see a group of teenagers or adults standing in the street, I’ll stop, introduce myself, give them my card. Some respond, some don’t—but we’re there to offer help and a way out.”
Both Bailey and Vasquez bring deep personal investment and professional experience to the initiative. Bailey has worked as a mobile therapist, life coach, and educator. Vasquez has a robust background in reentry services and is particularly skilled at bridging language and cultural barriers.
“This is my calling, this is my purpose,” Bailey said. “Every obstacle was meant to help me grow in this space.”
“I come from social services and criminal justice,” Vasquez said. “I love helping people. I’m proud of the work we do—we’re impacting lives.”
Recently, Bailey and Vasquez held a press conference to address public misconceptions about GVI—claims that the program isn’t active or impactful.
“Misinformation is a polite word for not factual things,” Bailey said. “If you don’t know about us, that’s probably a good thing. It means we’re not knocking on your door—because you’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing.”
Vasquez added that dismissing the work done by GVI is deeply personal.
