NCJ Number
135839
Date Published
1991
Length
30 pages
Annotation
A program begun in December 1988 focused on preventing gang and drug activity in four communities in the South Bay Area of Los Angeles County (California).
Abstract
The four communities were Carson, Harbor City, Lomita, and Wilmington. Two communities had third and fourth generation Hispanic gang activity; one had black, Hispanic, white, Samoan, and Filipino gang activity; and the final area was in a severe state of denial until 4 months before the 18-month period. The first task of the Community Reclamation Project was to identify existing resources and determine any service gaps. Results showed that 19 community-based programs were all addressing gangs and drugs. The project staff worked with these organizations as well as schools and neighborhoods to coordinate existing diversion and intervention programs and to create alternatives such as recreation, tutoring, and career development. The program received such positive responses that the County awarded continuing funding. The project will continue to provide the structure to focus and coordinate all drug and gang prevention activities in the target communities. Appended list of equipment and materials