Founded in 1999, V2K H.E.L.P.E.R. Foundation (formerly known as "Venice 2000") is a non-profit,501(c)3, organization that was originally established to provide gang intervention and prevention services. Since that time, we’ve come to believe that “community-intervention” services are needed now more than ever to combat gang-related violence, the destruction of our communities, and the loss of our young people to the lure of economic depravity.
THE GOAL OF V2K H.E.L.P.E.R. Foundation is to provide the resources and guidance to help struggling youth and community members of all ages make the transition from negative, anti-social behavior to positive, value-centered alternatives.
"When you're dealing with gentrification, and with displacement of families, you're dealing with power on a high level." (Visit KCET.org)
"I had a choice to make when I came home: either get back in the game, or wash my hands of it. And if I hadn't decided to do that, I wouldn't be standing here talking to you right now." (Visit KCET.org)
As one of the first organizations in the Venice Area to formally work as a liaison between law enforcement, community and Street Organization members, V2K H.E.L.P.E.R. Foundation has gained the respect of both the local government and community residents alike.
It has been providing gang intervention and prevention services for the Los Angeles Probation Department and Los Angeles County Office of Education since L A Bridges I and II. Additionally, we have worked with, City of Los Angeles, The County of Los Angeles Department of Health Services, The Los Angeles Urban League and a host of community-based organizations working on faith based initiatives, community policing, job training and development, victims assistance and victims rights. Our mission is to build a cohesive community working together to improve social and economic conditions for all people. The vision of V2K H.E.L.P.E.R. Foundation is to bring together the individual factions of the communities riddled with gang violence, through community mobilization and peace treaties, to make positive changes that will benefit everyone within the community.
Our unique approach to community involves Community Based Organizations (CBO’s), Faith Based Organizations (FBO’s) and Business owners. We have relationships with the leadership of local Faith Based Organizations. These relationships enable us to provide opportunities for spiritual guidance to multiple populations. Additionally, both Turner and Muhammad have strong ties to employment for the ex-offender/re-entry population. Our Crisis Intervention Workers (CIW’s) work closely with churches and mosques to provide complete wrap around services to our clients.