Rochester teens are fighting violence and embracing health care careers through a unique program

In Rochester, where many teenagers face the harsh realities of violence, the Teen Alliance Against Violence (TAVA) creates a pathway to hope and opportunity. Created through a collaboration of local organizations, TAVA empowers high school students to address community violence and pursue careers in health care.

TAVA students serve as ambassadors for change, raising awareness of structural racism, disparities, and inequities that impact community health. “We preach anti-violence in our community,” said Eduardo, a Rochester Academy High School student and TAVA member. “The best way to save a patient is to prevent them from ever becoming a patient.”

Through a partnership with the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), TAVA students participate in the Next Generation Surgery Program. The initiative provides hands-on exposure to health care careers, mentoring and basic life-saving skills, including CPR, suturing and Narcan training.

Students also observe medical professionals, gaining first-hand insight into the medical field. “In addition to observing in the operating room, learning about careers in surgery and working on college applications, the scholars experienced our true commitment to diversifying surgery,” said Paula Cupertino, PhD, program director at URMC.

The program has already opened its doors for participants. Jonathan, a TAVA member, was accepted as a Nursing Assistant at URMC. “It’s really great because I really want to be a registered nurse,” he said. Eduardo also received a similar position, and both students received hearty praise for their dedication.

TAVA’s collaboration with UR Medicine’s Teen Health & Success Partnership (THSP) helps students transition to employment at URMC while providing long-term support. This year, six program participants became URMC employees.

The impact of the initiative goes beyond career opportunities. TAVA students are prepared to act as advocates, using their education to reduce violence and promote health in their communities. “If we give back to our community, we will be greatly rewarded for our future,” Eduardo said.

A brighter future through advocacy and action
TAVA’s success highlights the power of education and mentoring in breaking the cycle of abuse. “The students learned as much as we did,” Cupertino said. “They brought us closer to the barriers our communities face to break the cycles of systemic racism and discrimination in education.”

By empowering and upskilling local teenagers, TAVA not only changes lives, but also inspires a new generation to build healthier and safer communities.

FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news outlet. The company was founded in 1998 and has been informing residents for more than two decades. is there ice Send to (email protected).