Life Camps Inc.

Life Camps Inc. is a minority-owned, non-profit organization based in Jamaica, Queens, New York, founded and led by Erica Ford, an internationally recognized peacemaker with over 30 years of experience in youth violence reduction and prevention. The organization focuses on community-based interventions and support services for at-risk youth and communities impacted by violence, primarily operating in the Southeast Queens area. Through its federal grant awards, Life Camps Inc. provides comprehensive violence intervention, prevention, mental health, and community support services, with a trauma-informed and culturally competent approach.

Life Camps Inc. has secured multiple federal grant awards from agencies including the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. These grants, totaling approximately $6 million, support innovative programs such as the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) program and the Mobile Peace Unit (MPU) Services Project. The organization's services include street and hospital-based violence interruption, individual and family counseling, legal assistance, diversion and re-entry programs, educational support, job training, and therapeutic wellness services. The grants specifically target youth aged 14-24 who are at high risk for gun violence, providing comprehensive wrap-around services designed to redirect at-risk individuals toward positive life outcomes. Life Camps Inc. works collaboratively with local schools, community organizations, police departments, and health professionals to implement these programs, with a core mission of increasing community safety, improving life expectancy, and reducing youth involvement in the justice system.