Durham, N.C. - After careful consideration over time, a decision has been made to discontinue the Cure Violence approach and end the Bull City United program effective November 1, 2024. This decision results in a reduction in force, which impacts 14 full-time employees and six contract employees.

Based on the Cure Violence Model, a public health approach to gun violence reduction, Bull City United was established in November 2016 in response to the escalating gun violence in Durham County. Initially, the program focused on addressing shootings in two census tracts with a team of seven staff members. In 2021, the City of Durham expanded the program through funding, employing 18 additional staff members, bringing the total to 25 working across six census tracts. Currently, the program operates with 14 full-time employees and six contractors. The program budget totals $2,577,913, of which $1,067,892 is supported by the City of Durham.

After reviewing Bull City United's impact and alignment with the community's evolving needs, the Community Intervention and Support Services (CISS) department will phase out the program. This decision is rooted in the department's commitment to continuously evaluate and adapt its efforts to ensure the most impactful and sustainable outcomes. "The CISS department is dedicated to facilitating a smooth transition by offering support and connecting individuals to career and professional development resources as they seek new opportunities, at their request," said Joanne Pierce, Assistant County Manager of Community Well-Being.

The CISS department remains committed to exploring and supporting initiatives that effectively address the changing needs of our community, ensuring a strategic and impactful response to promote community safety and well-being. It will continue to engage with internal and external partners to leverage their expertise and insights.

For more information about this announcement, email the Durham County Public Information Office at publicinformationoffice@dconc.gov.