Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence (B.R.A.G.), the cure violence program run by the nonprofit, Good Shepherd Services (GSS), received the Keys to the City of New York from former NYC Mayor Eric Adams, in the presence of Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, during a ceremony at City Hall on Dec. 29, 2025. The group also received a certificate of recognition from NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD).

 

B.R.A.G. leader David Caba praised GSS/B.R.A.G. staff who he said are in the communities regularly, particularly in those where the risk of violence is highest, adding that he was proud of their commitment and responsiveness. “They are the epitome of boldness!” he said. “It was and is my great pleasure to represent the work that they constantly do to improve the lives of our children, youth and families!” Caba went on to say that he was grateful for the support of GSS.

 

He added, “We thank Mayor Adams for recognizing that New York City’s Crisis Management System (CMS) was and is an integral part of the success [of the] historic lows [in] gun violence and homicides [in 2025] and should continue to invest in it. I appreciate A.T. Mitchell-Mann for his advocacy in organizing the Keys to the City honor. Thank you, NYC DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard, for the certification and your firm belief in CMS and all our stakeholders who have stood by us.”

 

Caba concluded, “Salute to all the Kings and Queens of Community Based Violence Intervention who have selflessly given to Our Movement!!!” Adams and Tisch also honored other groups during the ceremony and announced the NYPD had removed more than 25,000 illegal firearms from New York City streets over the course of the Adams administration.