STUDENTS AGAINST VIOLENCE EVERYWHERE

JULY: FOCUS ON GANGS

Many teens join gangs because they are bored, lacking in purpose, or looking for a way to belong. But there are other options. Sports, clubs, recreational, and after-school programs give you a great chance to meet new people, explore new interests, develop new talents and skills, and to connect with people that really care about you and your well-being. The response from school officials to the presence of gangs requires a combination of prevention, intervention, and enforcement strategies. Local law enforcement also needs to be involved since gang activity is usually present on and off school property. Gang activity often escalates in warmer weather and when schools are out for the summer, so this is a good month for SAVE chapters to focus on the awareness of this issue.

Crime Prevention Activities

• Educate students about the warning signs of gang activity such as graffiti, "colors", symbols and unusual hand signs.

• Publish an article in a school or local newspaper about the local gang culture including what to look for and tips for teens and parents.

• Invite a local member of law enforcement to speak to your chapter and parents on gangs.

• Encourage students to stay away from gangs and gang members. Remind them that if they look like a gang member and are seen with a gang member, they may be mistaken for a real gang member and have the chance of being an innocent target of violent gang behavior.

  For more Crime Prevention ideas

Conflict Management Activities