PROGRAMS: GANG PREVENTION PROGRAM

The GPP offers an array of programs to assit gang involved youth and youth on the brink of gang involvement, some examples are:

- Tutoring programs:
Tutors are provided for students of all ages who need assistance in their studies. Students are matched with college level tutors who can help with an array of subjects to meet the needs of the student.

- Mentoring programs:
Individuals are matched with area mentoring programs to provide necessary role models and give children the positive attention needed in fostering healthy relationships.

- Tattoo removal program:
With the assistance of area hospitals, universities and Health clinics, laser surgery is provided to remove gang
related tattoos and body markings to assist individuals in making a positive transition in changing their lifestyle.

- Mental Health Assistance:
Provides such counseling services as anger management, substance abuse, Post Traumatic Stress disorder, and other
issues that contribute to the challenges that youth must overcome.

- Peer Groups involving Gang Behavior:
Guest speakers and support groups are held with gang involved youth to help destroy the myths of gang life and
also prepare the individual in making positive choices.

- Job Preparation:
Resume writing, personal grooming, job "cold calling" and job interviewing assistance are just some of the topics discussed in this session.

School/Youth Assemblies

The Department of Youth and Recreation Service's Gang Prevention Program provides various educational and awareness programs for youths ages 8 to 18. The presentations are modified for each grade level (Elementary, Middle School, High School).

Elementary Level
Discuss the definition of a gang. Discuss and role-play RESPECT and PEER PRESSURE. Discuss the "PIGEONS vs. EAGLES" analogy. Provide a short overview of how gang identifiers (bandanas, beads, etc.) create a negative reaction. Explaining how the media (music videos, movies, etc.) impacts their behavior (Fantasy vs. reality). Discuss the importance of positive role models. Provide recreational programs and alternatives that they can become involved with.

Middle School Level
Discuss the PEER PRESSURES associated with teens and gangs. Discuss the need for ACCEPTANCE. View a series of gang prevention videos that will generate feedback and create options for the students. Discuss gang lifestyles (Drugs, probation, truancy, incarceration, etc.). Engage and discuss the students in prison facility trips and other related intervention progams (tutoring, mentoring, etc.). Discuss media impact as stated above. Also provide recreational programs and alternatives that they may want to become involved with.

High School Level
Discuss gangs and there impact on their lives/communities. View gang prevention videos/gang related movies and conduct feedback sessions. Administer a "self-test" that reflects on their behaviors and lifestyles. Discuss gang lifestyles as stated above. Discuss higher education and its importance. Class involvement in Youth Assistance Program trips to NYS Prison facilities. Provide options available (tutoring, mentoring, job training, etc.).

For more information contact:
Ron "Cook" Barrett
Capital Region Gang Prevention Specialist
175 Central Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
518-434-5723

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