For training or assistance in implementing Gang Prevention contact:

Capital Region NY Gang Prevention Coordinator
Ron "Cook" Barrett
Department of Youth and Family Services
175 Central Ave. Albany, NY 12206
(518) 434-5723 or page (518) 422-4752

Gang Prevention in Schools

Implementing Gang prevention in schools provides the school district with another valuable resource. Different topics are discussed based on the age/grade of the students. The following is a brief outline of the issues that are discussed:

What is a gang?
Discuss the difference between a gang and a club. Discuss the negative impact of gangs.

Friends/Peer Pressure
Discuss the choices that kids have to make and the effects of these decisions. Discuss the ability to make ones own choices.

Families and their importance.
Helping students understand their differences in families and what makes them unique and special.

Goal Setting/Future
Discuss the importance of setting goals.

Self-Esteem/Appreciation
Helping students find a sense of pride in themselves. Learning to appreciate the difference in their classmates.

Violent behavior and its results.
Discuss the impact of violent behavior.

Drugs/Gangs and Your Neighborhood
Discuss the negative impact that drugs and gangs have on neighborhoods.

Conflict Resolution
Discuss non-violent ways of dealing with problems.

These topics help generate a lot of feedback from the kids. They help improve and enhance their life and social skills. The program will make the kids aware of the alternatives to gang involvement, and of the positive opportunities that are available.