Our Blueprint for a Safer Future
Unite & Educate
Abraxas Unarmed is a 12-session, group-based program that takes a practical approach to gun violence prevention. Rather than abstinence-only messaging, UNARMED equips youth with real-world knowledge and skills to recognize risks, navigate complex situations, and make safer choices.
Who It's For
This program is for youth ages 12+ in residential programming, community-based organizations and educational settings.
What Youth Learn
Youth will build critical knowledge about gun violence and laws, develop essential skills in conflict resolution and emotional regulation, and change their attitudes toward safety and support systems.
Program Includes
The program includes guided group sessions led by facilitators, a video series with real stories, activities to build peer support, and pre/post tests to measure change.
Who is Unarmed
designed to help?
Youth Ages 12+ who are:
- Involved in or at risk of involvement with the juvenile justice system
- Living in communities with high rates of gun violence
- Seeking practical skills to increase personal and community safety
- Ready to engage in honest, reality-based education
Ideal for juvenile justice and child welfare agencies and programs, high schools, community-based organizations, residential facilities, and re-entry services.
What do youth learn at Unarmed?
Build Critical Knowledge
- The real effects of gun violence on individuals, families, and communities
- Laws and legal consequences related to firearms
- Community resources, support systems, and safe spaces
- How to recognize warning signs of potential violence
Develop Essential Skills
- Healthy conflict resolution and communication strategies
- How to make positive choices in high-risk situations
- Emotional regulation and problem-solving techniques
- When and how to seek help from trusted adults
Change Attitudes & Beliefs
- Increased trust in mentors and support systems
- Greater willingness to report threats or unsafe behavior
- Belief in personal agency and non-violent problem solving
- Confidence in their ability to create positive change
What does the Unarmed
program include?
- Guided Group Sessions led by trained facilitators
- Watch, Think & Share Video Series featuring real stories
- Team Builder & Reflection Activities to build peer support
- Assigned Homework to reinforce learning
- Pre/Post Tests to measure knowledge and attitude change
- Recognition at Completion celebrating youth achievement
