New York State is investing $20 million in programs aimed at preventing youth violence and supporting young people across 10 communities, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday.
The funding comes through Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower), which supports community-based organizations providing mentoring, youth development programs, job training, and mental health services. Each of the 10 communities (Albany, Buffalo, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Rochester, Syracuse, Yonkers, Hempstead, Troy, and Utica) will receive $2 million. Seven cities are receiving funding for a third round, while Hempstead, Troy, and Utica are being funded for the first time.
“Keeping our communities safe starts with investing in our young people,” Hochul said. “Through Project RISE, we are putting real resources into violence prevention, mental health support, job training, and life skills development so our young New Yorkers have the tools they need to succeed.”
The initiative also includes the creation of four Transformative Youth Justice Hubs, supported by $4 million in federal funding. The hubs aim to keep young people out of the justice system by bringing together youth, families, community organizations, educators, and service providers to address root causes of harmful behavior and promote long-term success. Funded organizations include Community Connections for Youth, Wayne County Action Program, the Research Foundation for SUNY, and Long Island University.
State officials say Project RISE supports 136 organizations across the participating communities. Local steering committees select programs for funding, focusing on equity and healing while building the capacity of grassroots organizations to expand their reach.
The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services oversees Project RISE, providing technical assistance, training, and evaluation to ensure programs have long-term impact. The initiative is part of the state’s broader approach to public safety, combining youth support with community partnerships and evidence-based strategies to prevent crime.
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