These conflict resolution programs, using trained citizen volunteers, also restore to citizens a range of civic work that only they can perform; promote cooperation within and between communities; and build community institutions that respond directly to the issues of disorder, crime, and violence. In contrast, conventional law enforcement is reactive and does little to break the cycle of hostile personal relations between citizens who eventually assault or kill one another. More than 10 years of experience has shown that community-based conflict resolution is a much more effective and preventive policy. Neighborhood justice programs like that pioneered by the Community Board Program in San Francisco can dramatically reduce interpersonal violence in cities. Such programs define the concept of prevention as a community responsibility maintained by citizens exercising their civic rights. 11 footnotes.