Youth Gang Prevention

Youth Gang Prevention
 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Gang prevention, intervention and suppression for youth at risk and gang members are strategies for addressing the recent increases in youth and gang related problems in the city of Norfolk, Virginia. State and local policymakers as well as citizens are concerned about public safety and want to avoid a continued increase in gang activity and membership. An effective response to the problems of youth must be built on a thorough understanding of the problem.
 
There is an important role for Norfolk State University (NSU) to assist the City of Norfolk in addressing the problem and designing an effective program built on the strategies of prevention, intervention and suppression. This white paper outlines such a program and related strategies, which we believe will be a successful response to youth at risk and gang members. This program is focused in the six communities adjacent and next to the Norfolk State Campus, and is designed to support and enhance community organizations and families in their effort to address youth at risk and reduce violence.
 
The program includes the strategies of prevention, intervention and suppression, and is highlighted by a five point component structure. These five points are as follows:
1)} build a solid community social network of community organizations, churches, government agencies, police units, local businesses, schools, and so forth,.
2) a range of services/workshops/training and educational opportunities offered and available to the residents of the communities identified by key street workers, clergy, parents, police, and other youth.
3) the utilization of key family and ex gang members in working directly with youth and gang members with experience in addressing such problems.
4) the creation of an educational ladder designed to provide alternative patterns of behavior and provide opportunities for the youth and the parents.
5) an evaluation plan focused on determining... [continues]

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