VITALS

Violence Intervention, Trauma Advocacy & Lifesaving Solutions

Helping Stop Violence Before It Happens Again

After a violent injury, the risk of it happening again is high. We help break that cycle.

VITALS supports adults (18+) who have been injured by violent crime by helping them stay safe, avoid repeat injury and rebuild long‑term stability

How VITALS Works

VITALS is a hospital‑based violence intervention program designed specifically for adults. We engage patients immediately after injury and continue working alongside them long after they leave the hospital—connecting them to resources, support and opportunity.

Hospital-Based Support

Patients treated for violent injuries at Ochsner LSU Health may be identified for VITALS during their hospital stay. A trauma-informed social worker meets with the patient to offer support and program enrollment.

What to Expect

During hospitalization:

Bedside engagement and crisis intervention
Immediate safety planning

Before discharge:

Personalized resource coordination
Connections to community partners

After discharge:

Ongoing case management
Long‑term follow‑up focused on stability, safety and growth

Building Stability & Opportunity

VITALS supports participants through:

Mentorship and conflict‑resolution skills
Education and career readiness
Vocational training and life‑skills development
Connection to counseling and social services

This work helps individuals move forward with confidence and purpose—beyond survival.

Our Mission

VITALS works to break cycles of violence by supporting recovery, strengthening life skills, and connecting individuals to opportunities for long-term success.

We empower participants through:

Trauma-informed care and advocacy
Education and job readiness support
Mentorship and positive community connections
Conflict resolution and life skills development

By partnering with families, schools, and local organizations, VITALS helps individuals move forward with confidence, stability, and dignity.

VITALS serves patients ages 18 and older who have experienced violent crime, including:

Gunshot wounds
Stabbings
Physical assault
Bullying or interpersonal violence

Patients under age 18 are supported through our pediatric violence intervention program, P.R.O.T.E.C.T.

Education, Career & Life Skills Pathways

VITALS helps participants explore meaningful career and training opportunities across a wide range of fields, including:

Healthcare and emergency services
Skilled trades and technology
Behavioral health and social services
Business, creative, and service industries

These pathways are designed to build confidence, job skills, and long-term independence.

Get Help or Learn More

If you or someone you know has been affected by violence (or if you’re interested in partnering with VITALS) we’re here to help.

VITALS / P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Hotline