End-of-Year Message from Proactive Prevention Strategies, LLC

As we close out another year, I’ve found myself reflecting—on the work, the conversations, the challenges, and most importantly, the people.

This year reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time: proactive crime prevention works. When research, education, experience, and practical application come together, safer communities aren’t just an idea—they’re achievable. The progress we’ve seen across agencies, classrooms, and communities is proof that thoughtful, problem-oriented & evidence-based approaches can be implemented successfully in the real world.

2025 brought exciting milestones for Proactive Prevention Strategies, including the continued reach of my book Proactive Crime Prevention: A Practical Understanding of What, Why, and How, meaningful collaborations, new professional relationships, and countless conversations with people who genuinely care about doing this work the right way. These moments reminded me that years of dedication and hard work do pay off—but they also reminded me that no one does this alone.

I’m incredibly grateful for the peers—both long-time colleagues and new connections—who have encouraged, challenged, and supported this mission along the way. Researchers, educators, practitioners, analysts, leaders, and community partners—you continue to inspire me. Your willingness to share knowledge, test ideas, and push the profession forward is what makes real progress possible.

As we head into 2026, I can confidently say this: I’m just getting started. Plans are already underway for a second book, expanded training, and continued work focused on helping agencies prevent harm before it occurs—while supporting officer wellness and strengthening community trust.

This time of year also reminds us why this work matters. While many of us are spending the holidays with loved ones, countless professionals are working through them—law enforcement officers, firefighters, medics, nurses, military members, dispatchers, and others who keep our communities safe. Their dedication makes our opportunities possible, and they deserve our sincere appreciation.

As we look ahead, I’m thankful—for family, for time together, for meaningful work, and for the shared commitment to building safer, stronger communities.

Wishing everyone a safe, peaceful holiday season and a proactive year ahead.

—

Michael S. Burgess, M.S.S.

Owner | Proactive Prevention Strategies, LLC

Smarter Policing. Safer Communities.