NCJ Number
230329
Date Published
April 2009
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This resource guide focuses on offering a new way to examine the problem of youth involvement in gangs.
Abstract
This resource guide was developed by the Institute for Law and Justice and serves as a tool for presenting real programs and techniques for dealing with the problem of youth involvement in gangs. These programs and techniques were developed as a result of the expansion of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSNs) efforts to combat gun crime in America. In 2006, the Department of Justice expanded PSN to include ne w and enhanced anti-gang efforts. The focus of this guide centers on a positive approach to youth development and assists youth in developing their strengths and abilities. The guide is divided into three sections. The first section provides background information on youth and gang involvement. The second section provides specifics on Youth Engagement and Leadership Development. The areas discussed include Qualities of a Youth Serving Agency Leader; Characteristics of an Engaged Community; Benefits of Community Engagement for Project Safe Neighborhoods; Youth Leadership; and Applying Youth Development and Engagement Principles to Project Safe Neighborhood. The third section discuss putting theory into practice and provides a look as school-based programs, youth outreach programs, leadership development, youth awareness initiatives, and specialized training. Links to various Web resources are included. Exhibits and references