The Bridgeport Police Department held a celebration today for people involved in a program designed to prevent violence.

The program, called Project Longevity, was also held to attract new clients.

The party, held in Beardsley Park, was launched last year and is part of a strategy by local, state and federal law enforcement to crack down on gang violence.

Organizers say that the program gives people who have a high risk of becoming victims of violence or causing violence an opportunity to get help with things like jobs, housing, alcoholism or drug abuse.

Police say gang members who opt not to turn their lives around are on notice, because local, state and federal officers will target them. They say they partner with the U.S. Attorney's Office in selecting candidates for the program.