NCJ Number
156988
Date Published
1994
Length
138 pages
Annotation
This document provides a blueprint for designing and implementing strategies for preventing and responding to problems related to juvenile gangs; the approach used here is to build a solid foundation of pro-youth opportunities in a community, and is based on initiatives taken in Tulare County, California.
Abstract
The document provides a definition of gangs, developed by participants in the Tulare County Gang Response Project, which planning groups are strongly encouraged to adopt early and without changes. The report outlines characteristics of gang members, risk factors, and a basic set of principles and foundations for engaging gang-related problems. The blueprint suggests six engagement strategies -- suppression, community mobilization and planning, strengthening organizations, strengthening the family, providing opportunities, and proactive policy development and advocacy. The next section describes the needs assessment Tulare County underwent to understand the scope of gang activity, obtain baseline data, develop standardized methods for gathering data, and develop a consensus regarding the seriousness of youth gang activity. Finally, this document provides various planning and evaluation resources. 5 notes, 9 references