2000 Best Practice Awards

Best Practice: Sandia Vista Project FOCUS Neighborhood Networks

Drug Elimination Funds Help Combat Gangs, Create Cohesive Community

Albuquerque. The Sandia Vista Project Focus, using funds awarded under a HUD Drug Elimination Grant, has helped create a more cohesive and economically healthy community through concentrated efforts to eliminate drugs and gangs at the property. A citizen’s patrol and the multi-faceted education and intervention program help to prevent and reduce drug usage and related crimes at the apartments. The increased presence and visibility of social workers, law enforcement agencies, government agencies and security officers due to the Drug Elimination Grant funds have lead to a 60% decrease in calls to the Albuquerque Police Department from the apartments. Through the efforts of residents, incidents of drug related crimes and gang violence have been reduced. Project Focus leveraged outside resources from diverse supporters, including the Albuquerque Police Department, representatives from local small businesses, federal, state, local and city government agencies and departments, and corporations, such as Wal-Mart.

Contact: Jack MacGillivray, Phone: (505) 260-4800
Tracking Number: 2125
Winning Category: Geographical

Content Archived: April 20, 2011