Since 1980, gang violence among young people has been a growing problem throughout America, according to a 2009 study.
An innovative gang prevention strategy was introduced to several communities focusing on teenagers involved with gangs and their families.
The prevention strategy supports local organizations that help transition troubled youngsters away from negativity towards being productive members of society.
Supported by law enforcement 65 cities were surveyed that reported serious gang problems.
After the survey, the following suggestions were made:
Community mobilization: This involves a community effort, including ex-gang members, community leaders, and programs.
Opportunities provision: Program development aimed towards education, employment, and gang-involved youth.
Social intervention: Provide services such as schools, grassroots groups, religious organizations, law enforcement and criminal institutions for youth gangs and families.
Suppression: Supervision and monitoring gang youth by agencies of the community, schools, and the criminal justice system.
Organization change and development: Implementing regulations policies by effectively using potential resources, within and across agencies.
The Gang Violence Reduction Program was developed from the research, a project that lasted five years. The results included a decrease in violence and property crimes through the participation with older gang members.
Based on the program, researchers found that there was a decrease in gang participation and a decline in violence and drug arrest.