Fact Check: "Invent2Prevent program, aimed at combating violence, is now defunct."
What We Know
The Invent2Prevent (I2P) program is a youth engagement initiative developed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aimed at empowering high school and college students to create projects that combat violence and extremism. The program was launched in spring 2021 and is part of the DHS Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) (GAO-25-107030). As of April 2024, the program is still operational and has been evaluated positively for its impact on student engagement and project development (Invent2Prevent (I2P) Program Evaluation).
The program encourages students to design and implement innovative initiatives, which have included projects like online games and community outreach efforts (Invent2Prevent, Spread the Word). Furthermore, the program has received funding and support from various organizations, indicating its ongoing relevance and operational status (Education Programs - Partnership for Invent2Prevent).
Analysis
The claim that the Invent2Prevent program is defunct lacks credible support. Current evaluations and reports indicate that the program is not only active but also thriving. The GAO report confirms that the I2P was funded and operational as of 2025, with ongoing projects being developed by students (GAO-25-107030). Additionally, the evaluation report from April 2024 highlights the program's continued engagement with students and its effectiveness in fostering innovative solutions to combat violence (Invent2Prevent (I2P) Program Evaluation).
The sources cited are credible, as they come from official government reports and evaluations conducted by recognized organizations. The DHS and the GAO are authoritative entities in this context, and their documentation provides a reliable basis for understanding the current status of the program.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that the Invent2Prevent program is defunct is false. The program is currently active, with ongoing initiatives and evaluations demonstrating its effectiveness and continued support from the DHS. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the program remains a vital part of efforts to engage youth in combating violence and extremism.
