Among many activities, the VPI seeks to promote public policies to reduce the high rates of handgun-related mortality and morbidity among youth. A key element of the VPI is the Campaign to Prevent Handgun Violence Against Kids. The Campaign seeks to educate and mobilize communities on policies to limit the availability of handguns to youth. Dr. Wallack is professor at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health and co-director of the Berkeley Media Studies Group. He has published extensively on issues related to mass media, prevention policy, and public health.
Guns are the leading cause of death for youth in California.
Two important problems are now at the fore of public health policy. One is the failure of disease intervention programs to prevent disease and promote health. The Guide was specifically developed to empower both people and communities to deal with difficult life events. Instead of offering lessons and directives, it shows that there are things that can be done to solve problems, and demonstrates how resources can be identified in the community. An independent research team found that the Guide had a powerful influence in helping people make positive changes in their lives.